Stellenbosch University is amongst South Africa's leading tertiary institutions based on research output, student pass rates and rated scientists, and is recognised internationally as an academic institution of excellence. It boasts the highest weighted research output per full-time academic staff member of all South African universities and the second-highest number of scientists in South Africa who have been rated by the National Research Foundation (NRF). It also has the highest student success rate in the country. SU is cementing its reputation as a world-class institution. According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, SU is one of the top 300 universities in the world, and among the top 20 in BRICS countries. It is ranked 3rd in the South Africa universities, in the QS World University Rankings 2026. SU was also included in the 2014 CWTS Leiden Ranking, which measures the scientific performance of 750 major universities worldwide.​ With 18 research chairs under the NRF South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChi), the University is regarded as a leader in the fields of biomedical tuberculosis research and management, wine biotechnology, animal sciences and mathematical biosciences. Another SARChi chair, in the field of invasion biology, is shared between SU and the University of Venda. This constitutes but one of SU's many partnerships, both local and international. As preferred research partner, SU also participates in various international academic networks.

Who can apply?

The Stellenbosch University Summer Programme is open to Undergraduate students and Postgraduate Taught students ONLY. Postgraduate Research students are excluded from this offer.

Courses offered

Stellenbosch University offer 3 different Courses, please refer links below for more information. Stellenbosch University offer General Elective Courses in the following subject areas: Elective 1 Course 1: Introduction to South Africa’s Political History Elective 2 Course 2: Bio-Diversity: Plants for the People in the Western Cape Course 3: Visual Controversies in South Africa, Past and Present Course 4: Social Justice in a Global Classroom Course 5: Violent Histories and Repair Course 6: Understanding HIV in South Africa Elective 3 Course 7: Transitional Justice Course 8: China in Africa Course 9: Travel Photography Course 10: Global Su​rgery Students are also able to take specialised courses in the following subject areas: Doing Business in Southern Africa Global Service Learning More information can be found in the links below.

Programme dates

The Stellenbosch University Summer programme will be taking place from Friday 19th June 2026 - Thursday 16th July 2026.

Application deadlines

If you wish to apply for a place on the Stellenbosch University Summer Programme, you will need to submit your Global Summer Exchange application by 11:59pm on Sunday 16th February 2026. If your application is successful, you will be required to apply directly to Stellenbosch University by Wednesday 15th April 2026.

What are the costs?

Stellenbosch University Summer Programme fees vary, depending on how many courses students register for and are as follows: General Elective (1 elective courses): 26,100 R General elective (2 elective courses): 38,900 R General elective (3 elective courses): 48,910 R Doing Business in Southern Africa & Global Service Learning: 50,995 R The following components are included with the Summer School fees depending which course you choose: Airport Transfers between Cape Town International Airport & Stellenbosch Orientation, Welcome dinner and Closing dinner Accommodation & Partial Board (Breakfast & Lunch on week-days) Text Books & Class Notes Registration Fees An Official Stellenbosch University Hoodie All transport Student ID Card Laundry service Access to the General University Library & Computer Laboratory Evening Activities and Cultural Activities Academic Transcript & Courier Costs 24hr. Emergency Service & On-site Contact Person Weekend activities and excursions Summer School Photo Students who are successful in their application will receive a tuition fee waiver, but will be responsible for all other costs, including, flights, accommodation, visas, health/medical insurance (if compulsory), living expenses and those listed on this webpage.

Accommodation

On-campus accommodation is available and forms part of the costs listed in the section above. Students stay in one of the Stellenbosch University dormitories. Accommodation is offered within a double dormitory room and includes Partial Board (Breakfast & Lunch on week-days). More information will be provided to students whilst applying to Stellenbosch directly.

The information on this webpage is accurate for 2026 entry.