What you pay and when

Researched by the VarsityStart team from official university sources. Last checked 10 October 2026. How we check

UCT's 2027 fees and payment dates document lists the first payment due by Friday 29 January 2027 and the final payment on 31 July 2027.

South African citizens and permanent residents: the tuition first payment is R36,000 (or the full fee if it is lower). Add R47,000 for a catered residence or R31,000 for a self-catering one.
You may register even if the first payment has not been received. A late payment surcharge of 5% of the unpaid amount applies.
SADC students: R36,000 plus a non-refundable R5,800 administrative service fee, plus residence amounts, paid before registration or by 29 January, whichever is earlier. Allow 14 working days.
Other international students: R127,400 (full-time, except master's and PhD) or R84,800 (master's coursework and dissertation).
Interest of 1% a month applies to balances after 31 July. Unpaid balances block re-registration, results, graduation and residence offers.
Financial aid: 021 650 3545, financialaid@uct.ac.za.