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Student Placement & Enrolment Process
Your step-by-step guide to enrolling in an English course and obtaining your student visa for Cape Town.
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+27 64 721 6056, info@globalsscapetown.co.za
Step1
Choose an English School
Research accredited language schools in Cape Town. Some well-known options include EC English Language Centres, International House Cape Town, and Good Hope Studies.
Look for:
- Accreditation (important for visa approval)
- Course type (General English, IELTS prep, etc.)
- Duration (must match your visa plans
Step2
Apply to the School
Once you choose a school, complete the online application form, submit a passport copy, and select your course and start date.
- Processing time: 1–5 days
Step3
Pay Fees & Get Acceptance Letter
Pay a deposit or full course fee and receive your Letter of Acceptance, proof of payment, and course details. These documents are required for your visa application.
Step4
Check Visa Requirements
If your course is under 90 days, you may enter on a tourist visa (depending on nationality). For courses over 90 days, you need a study visa issued by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Under 90 days → Tourist visa may apply
- Over 90 days → Study visa required
Step5
Prepare Student Visa Documents
If your course is under 90 days, you may enter on a tourist visa (depending on nationality). For courses over 90 days, you need a study visa issued by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Valid passport (30+ days after course ends)
- Acceptance letter from school
- Proof of payment
- Proof of accommodation in Cape Town
- Medical insurance (required)
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical & radiology reports
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Return flight ticket (or funds for one)
Step6
Submit Visa Application
Apply at the South African embassy or consulate in your home country. In many countries, applications are processed through VFS Global.
- Processing time: Usually 4–8 weeks (can vary)
Step7
Travel to Cape Town
Once approved, book your flight to Cape Town and carry all documents in your hand luggage.
Step8
Register at the School
On arrival, attend orientation, take a placement test, and start your classes!
Estimated Costs (Per Year)
Tuition: $3,000 – $8,000+ (depends on programme)
Living costs: $500 – $900/month
Medical insurance: required (~$300–$600/year)
Step1
Choose an Institution & Programme
Pick a recognised university or college in Cape Town. Top options include the University of Cape Town, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, and Stellenbosch University.
Choose:
- Degree level (Bachelor's, Master's, Diploma)
- Field of study
- Intake (usually January/February or July)
Step2
Check Entry Requirements
Each institution requires academic transcripts, a school leaving certificate (or degree for postgrad), an English proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL if needed), and a passport copy. Some programmes may also require a motivation letter, CV, or portfolio.
Step3
Submit Your Application
Apply online via the university website. Pay the application fee if required and upload all documents.
- Processing time: 2–8 weeks (varies by institution)
Step4
Receive Offer Letter
You will receive either a conditional offer (requiring you to meet final requirements) or a full acceptance letter.
Step5
Pay Deposit & Confirm Enrolment
To secure your place, pay the tuition deposit and accept the offer. You will receive an Official Acceptance Letter and Proof of Registration — both mandatory for your visa.
Step6
Arrange Accommodation
You must show proof of housing. Options include university residence, private student housing, or a rental agreement.
Step7
Prepare Student Visa Documents
Apply through the Department of Home Affairs. Gather all required documents before submitting.
- Valid passport
- Acceptance letter from university
- Proof of tuition payment
- Proof of accommodation
- Medical insurance (South African-registered)
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical & radiology reports
- Proof of sufficient funds (tuition + living costs)
- Return flight ticket (or funds)
Step8
Submit Visa Application
Submit at the South African embassy or consulate in your country. Applications are often handled by VFS Global.
- Processing time: Typically 4–8 weeks (or longer in peak periods)
Step9
Travel to Cape Town
Once approved, book your flight to Cape Town and carry all documents with you.
Step9
Register at the Institution
After arrival, complete in-person registration, attend orientation, get your student ID, and start your academic journey!
Estimated Costs (Per Year)
uition: $3,000 – $8,000+ (depends on programme)
Living costs: $500 – $900/month
Medical insurance: required (~$300–$600/year)
Important Tips
Make sure your school is visa-compliant
Apply at least 2–3 months in advance
Do NOT overstay your visa (strict penalties S.A.)
Keep digital and printed copies of all documents
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