Study Abroad in Stellenbosch: Overview

Study in South Africa’s second oldest city, 30 minutes from Cape Town. Live in this culturally rich University town surrounded by spectacular mountain ranges.
Attend courses with more than 400 international students from other African countries and around the world.
Take in more of the local culture on a vineyard and wine tasting tour and see the impressive sites of the South African coastline on a 6-day tour of the Garden Route and day trips to Cape Town, Robben Island and the Cape of Good Hope.

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Program at a glance

  • Academic year, July-November and January-June semesters (summer session also available)
  • Open to college sophomores, juniors and seniors
  • 2.5 minimum GPA required
  • Program fee includes tuition, housing, some meals, excursions and cultural activities, airfare if selected, Garden Route tour, and more
  • Courses offered in English in Service Learning, African studies, art, English, literature, conservation ecology, history, political science, religious studies, theater arts and foreign languages
  • Over 40 courses taught in English
  • Community volunteer opportunities available as well as a Service Learning Certificate
  • On-site orientation in Stellenbosch
  • The local AIFS Resident Director and staff organize cultural activities and housing, act as a liaison between students and the university, and are available 24/7 in case of emergencies
  • Study Permit (temporary residence permit) mandatory. Apply to the South African consulate
  • Transcripts issued by Stellenbosch University

Application and scholarship deadlines

  • Please note that acceptance to the AIFS Stellenbosch program does not guarantee acceptance into the Service Learning program. Your Service Learning application will be reviewed by the Service Learning program coordinators at Stellenbosch University and an acceptance decision will be provided prior to departing the U.S.
  • Application deadlines* Fall Semester is full; October 15 (spring) Students applying late may receive their acceptance and study permit late.
  • AIFS Study Abroad Scholarships available. The scholarship application deadlines are April 15 (fall semester or academic year); October 1 (spring).

*Please note that applications, deposits and balance of fees arriving after the required deadline are subject to late fees.