What You Need to Know About Stellenbosch University
Stellenbosch University sits in the heart of the Western Cape and ranks among South Africa's top research universities. It's known for strong programs in Agriculture, Engineering, Commerce and Science. Getting in isn't easy, some Engineering degrees want 70% aggregate, and Actuarial Science or Law programs can ask for even higher Maths marks. If your marks are solid but not top tier, options like the Extended Curriculum Programmes open a door at 55% aggregate.
Unlike most universities, Stellenbosch does not use a standard APS out of around 42 points. It works on a percentage aggregate across your best six subjects, with Life Orientation excluded, out of a maximum of 100%. This means your actual percentage average matters more than converting marks into points. Keep that in mind when you compare Stellenbosch to other universities on your list.
What APS Do You Need?
Your aggregate requirement depends heavily on your faculty. For BCom (Economic Sciences), you need at least 65% aggregate (excluding Life Orientation) and 60% for Maths. Engineering degrees, like Civil, Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, all ask for 70% aggregate. If you're eyeing Law or Actuarial Science, expect even higher Maths requirements, sometimes up to 70% for Maths alone.
The BSc in Forestry (Forestry and Wood Sciences) needs 60% aggregate plus 50% for English or Afrikaans. The BCom Management Sciences Extended Programme drops the bar to 55% aggregate, with 50% for Maths or 60% for Maths Lit. That said, Maths Lit locks you out of most BCom and Science degrees at Stellenbosch. It's safer to keep pure Maths if Commerce or Science is your goal.
Fees and Funding
Money stress is real, and Stellenbosch isn't the cheapest option out there. Beyond the R100 or R400 application fee, tuition works on a deposit system, where you pay 20% of your total study fees upon registration. For the exact breakdown per faculty, check the official Stellenbosch University Study Fees page since costs differ by program.
NSFAS funds Stellenbosch University as a public institution, covering tuition, learning materials, transport and living allowances if your household falls under the NSFAS threshold. Once you're approved, you don't need to reapply for the rest of your registered course. International full-degree students pay separate fees, with Business School programs at R850 for most courses and R1050 for the MBA.
Life on Campus
Residence applications run alongside your undergrad application and close on 31 July 2026, so don't leave it to the last minute if you want to stay on campus. If you do get a res spot, expect an initial deposit of around R16,400 as your first instalment. Check the official Stellenbosch University page for exact details on residence options and off-campus alternatives.
Not sure if your marks are enough to get in? Use our free APS calculator to see exactly where you stand for Stellenbosch's programs.
