The Study Permit allows foreign nationals to undertake full-time studies at accredited educational institutions in South Africa, from primary school through to postgraduate and doctoral programmes.
South Africa is home to world-class universities and educational institutions, offering quality education at competitive costs. The study permit provides international students with the legal framework to pursue their academic goals.
New World Immigration assists international students and their families with study permit applications, ensuring all documentation meets DHA requirements for a successful outcome.
Who is this permit for?
The Study Permit is for foreign nationals who have been accepted to study at an accredited educational institution in South Africa.
You have received a formal acceptance letter from an accredited South African institution
The institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training
You can demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses
You have a valid medical aid or health insurance covering your stay
You have no criminal record and meet health requirements
Minor students require consent from both parents or legal guardians
Common reasons for rejection
The educational institution is not recognised or registered as required for the official acceptance letter to be valid
The official acceptance letter from the institution is missing, conditional, or does not confirm the full course duration
Proof of medical aid with a South African registered scheme is not provided or is not renewed to cover the full study period
Insufficient proof of funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses is presented to the adjudicating officer
For minor applicants, written consent and certified identity documents from both parents or legal guardians are not supplied
Application process
1. Admission & Acceptance
You must first be accepted by an accredited South African educational institution and receive a formal acceptance letter.
2. Financial Proof
We assist with compiling proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses for the study period.
3. Medical Aid Arrangements
We advise on obtaining appropriate medical aid or health insurance coverage.
4. Document Preparation
We compile the complete application including acceptance letter, financial proof, medical aid, and personal documents.
5. Application Submission
The application is submitted to DHA or the South African embassy/consulate.
6. Processing & Outcome
DHA processes the application and issues the study permit for the duration of the course.
Key considerations
The study permit is tied to the specific institution and course stated in the application.
Changing institutions or courses requires a new study permit application.
Limited part-time work (up to 20 hours per week) may be permitted during term time with appropriate endorsement.
Full-time work is generally not permitted on a study permit.
The permit must be renewed if the course extends beyond the initial permit validity.
Minor students have additional requirements including parental consent and guardianship arrangements.
Medical aid coverage is a mandatory requirement.
Costs
Costs include government fees, medical aid, and professional service fees in addition to tuition and living expenses.
DHA Application Fee: ZAR 1,520
Medical Aid/Insurance: ZAR 5,000 - 15,000 per year
Police Clearance Certificates: ZAR 150 - 500 per country
Medical Report: ZAR 800 - 1,500
Professional Service Fees: Contact for quote
Government fees are subject to change. Tuition and living expenses vary significantly by institution and location.
Processing timeframes
Study permit applications should be submitted well in advance of the course start date.
Document Preparation: 2 - 4 weeks
DHA Processing: 6 - 12 weeks
Total: 2 - 4 months
Job offer requirements
A study permit is not a work permit. However, limited part-time work (up to 20 hours per week during term time) may be permitted with appropriate endorsement.
Full-time work during vacation periods may also be possible with a work endorsement.
If you wish to work after completing your studies, you will need to apply for an appropriate work visa or permit.
How to apply — step by step
1. Obtain Acceptance from an Accredited Institution
Secure a formal acceptance letter from a South African educational institution registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) or the Department of Basic Education (DBE).
2. Arrange Financial Support
Confirm your financial arrangements, scholarship letters, bank statements, or a sponsor's letter and bank statements showing sufficient funds for tuition and living costs.
3. Compile Your Document Pack
Gather all required documents including the acceptance letter, financial proof, unabridged birth certificate (for minors), police clearances, and medical report.
4. Submit to the SA Mission Abroad
Lodge your application at the nearest South African embassy or consulate before travelling. If already in SA on a valid visa, apply at DHA.
5. Attend Biometrics and Await Decision
Attend any required biometrics appointment. Once approved, collect your Study Permit before travelling to South Africa.
6. Commence Your Studies
Travel to South Africa and commence studies at the approved institution within the validity period of your permit.
Quick tips
You cannot study in South Africa on a tourist or visitor visa, a Study Permit is mandatory for any formal course of study.
The study permit is tied to the specific institution and course; changing institutions requires a new permit application.
Apply early, missions in some regions experience long processing queues, particularly in July and August.
Parents applying for a minor child's permit must submit their own documentation including police clearances.
If you receive a scholarship, include the official scholarship letter as your primary proof of financial means.
Part-time employment is not automatically permitted under a study permit; check specific conditions before working.
Begin renewal preparations well before your permit expires, you must remain enrolled and in good standing.
Documents needed
Valid passport (minimum 30 days validity beyond intended study period)
Acceptance letter from an accredited South African educational institution
Proof that the institution is registered with DHET or DBE
Proof of financial means (scholarship letter, bank statements, or sponsor letter with bank statements)
Unabridged birth certificate (mandatory for applicants under 18)
Parental consent affidavit (if minor is not applying with both parents)
Police clearance certificate(s) from every country lived in for 12+ months since age 18 (adults only)
Two recent passport-sized photographs
Completed application form (BI-1738)
Proof of payment of the government application fee
Frequently asked questions
Can I work while studying?
Limited part-time work (up to 20 hours per week during term time) may be permitted with a work endorsement on your study permit. Full-time work during vacation periods may also be possible.
Can I change my course or institution?
Changing institutions or courses requires a new study permit application. Contact NWI before making any changes.
What if my course is extended?
You must apply for a renewal of your study permit before the current permit expires.
Is medical aid mandatory?
Yes. All study permit applicants must have valid medical aid or health insurance coverage for the duration of their studies.
Can my family join me?
Dependants may apply for accompanying visas, subject to meeting the relevant requirements.
Get expert help
If you have been accepted to study in South Africa, the Study Permit is your pathway to accessing world-class education.
Contact New World Immigration for assistance with your study permit application.