2024 Undergraduate Prospectus

2024 UNDERGRADUATE
PROSPECTUS
CONTENTS
4 | Message from the Vice-Chancellor 13 | Application and Admission to UCT
7 | Using this Prospectus 18 | National Benchmark Tests
10 | Visiting UCT 22 | Faculty of Commerce
11 | About Cape Town and UCT 32 | Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment
12 | Key dates 40 | Faculty of Health Sciences
50 | Faculty of Humanities 83 | International Students
64 | Faculty of Law 86 | Tuition Fees & Residence Costs
70 | Faculty of Science 87 | Funding your studies
77 | Student Housing 90 | Student Life at UCT
80 | Sports, Student Clubs & Student Societies 94 | Contact information
MESSAGE FROM THE Events in South Africa and around the world over
the last few years have taught us all one thing: life
holds many uncertainties. We all must be prepared
VICE-CHANCELLOR to adjust to change and to lead ourselves and others

through every new challenge – and even to turn a
challenge around to create an opportunity.
This is why studying at the University of Cape Town justice, poverty alleviation and humanitarian relief. If working on problems affecting your
(UCT) is so important. As an institution, we have made a own community excites you, UCT can help you begin to make a meaningful contribution
commitment to lead in changing the world for the better. Our to society.
massive transformative purpose, which we define in our Vision 2030
strategic plan, is to unleash human potential to create a fair and just society. Our students have access to the best education, along with academic and social support to
help students thrive, no matter the circumstances. We follow a blended educational format
We are so pleased that you are interested in studying at UCT, and I invite you to join us in that uses different learning platforms, including face-to-face sessions as well as online access
achieving this goal. to academic support and learning resources.
This publication contains all the information you need to choose an academic programme Of course, your health and safety are our first priority. We recognise that many new students
within one of our six faculties: Commerce, Engineering & the Built Environment, Health will be away from home for the first time, so UCT has a network of support structures that
Sciences, Humanities, Law and Science. They each offer an internationally recognised provide a safety net for students who may need help and guidance in adjusting to campus
qualification at one of the world’s most beautiful and diverse campuses. life. To help build a healthy and balanced student life, UCT offers you an opportunity to join
one or more of our 40 sports clubs and the 100+ societies that can provide an outlet for your
UCT also offers you a personally enriching student life, where you can make lasting friendships cultural or spiritual interests, enable you to engage with social justice issues, or help hone
and begin to establish a network that will serve you for the rest your professional life. your entrepreneurial skills.
At UCT, we do all we can to facilitate funding for deserving students. Should you need UCT alumni remain among South Africa’s most sought-after graduates, with one of the
financial assistance for your studies, please turn to the section that outlines how to seek country’s highest graduate employment rates. Our students are often recruited directly into
funding from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and/or how to apply for the private sector, thanks to the sterling work undertaken by UCT’s Careers Service unit, which
one of a number of UCT scholarships. connects employers with future graduates. Career advice offered by this unit is available to
all UCT students and remains a free service for three years after graduation. We also provide
There are many good reasons for choosing to study here. UCT consistently performs well opportunities for student entrepreneurs who want to develop their own businesses.
in various world university ranking systems due to the excellence of our research, teaching
and social responsiveness. Many of our academics are internationally recognised experts Good luck with making this important decision about your future. I hope to welcome
in their fields, and they bring that expertise into the classroom. Their scholarly work and you to UCT in person early in the coming year, when our annual first-year orientation
engagement in ground-breaking research guarantee your studies will be informed by the programme will introduce you to our spectacular campus and the entire range of services
latest advances in knowledge. that will make your time at UCT as enjoyable and productive as possible.
Our staff and students are committed to addressing a wide spectrum of issues facing our All the best,
continent through our research – including those related to health, economics, social Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng, Vice-Chancellor
4 | 2024 UNDERGRADUATE PROSPECTUS

UMYALEZO OVELA Iziganeko eMzantsi Afrika nakwihlabathi jikelele kule minyaka imbalwa
idlulileyo zisifundise into enye: ubomi buphethe izinto ezininzi
ezingaqinisekanga. Sonke kufuneka silungele ukuziqhelanisa notshintsho
KUSEKELA-TSHANSELA kwaye sizikhokele thina kunye nabanye kuwo wonke umngeni omtsha -
kwaye sijike umngeni ukudala ithuba.
Yiyo le nto ukufunda kwiYunivesithi yaseKapa (UCT) kubaluleke kakhulu. Njengeziko, sizibophelele ezichaphazela indawo ohlala kuyo kuyakuchulumancisa, i-UCT ingakunceda ukuba uqalise
ekukhokheleni ekutshintsheni ihlabathi libengcono. Injongo yethu enkulu yenguqu, esiyichaza ukwenza igalelo elibonakalayo eluntwini.Abafundi bethu banokufikelela kweyona mfundo
kuMbono wethu wesicwangciso-qhinga soMbono ka-2030, kukuveza isakhono soluntu sokudala igqwesileyo, kunye nenkxaso yezemfundo nezentlalo ukunceda abafundi ukuba baphumelele,
uluntu olunobulungisa. nokuba zithini na iimeko. Silandela indlela yemfundo exutyiweyo esebenzisa amaqonga okufunda
ahlukeneyo, kubandakanywa izifundo zobuso ngobuso kwakunye nokufumaneka kwe-intanethi
Sinovuyo kakhulu ngokuba unomdla wokufunda e-UCT, kwaye ndiyakumema ukuba uhlangane kwinkxaso yezifundo nezibonelelo zokufunda.
nathi ekuphumezeni le njongo. Olu papasho luqulathe lonke ulwazi oludingayo ukuze ukhethe
inkqubo yokufunda kwelinye lamacandelo ethu amathandathu: ezoRhwebo, ezobuNjineli kunye Ewe, impilo yakho kunye nokhuseleko zezona zinto ziphambili kuthi. Siyaqonda ukuba abafundi
neNdawo yezaKhiwo, ezoNyango neeNzululwazi kwezeMpilo, ezoLuntu, ezoMthetho kunye abaninzi abatsha baza kube bengekho ekhaya okokuqala, ngoko ke i-UCT inothungelwano
neNzululwazi. Ngalinye kuwo abonelela ngesiqinisekiso esamkelwa kumazwe ngamazwe kwenye lwemibutho yenkxaso ebonelela ngomnatha wokhuseleko kubafundi abasenokufuna uncedo
yezona khampasi zintle nezahlukeneyo zehlabathi. nokhokelo ekuziqhelaniseni nobomi basekhampasini. Ukunceda ukwakha ubomi bomfundi
obunempilo nobulungeleleneyo, i-UCT ikunika ithuba lokuyinxalenye yenye okanye ngaphezulu
I-UCT ikwabonelela ngobomi bomfundi obutyebisayo, apho unokwenza ubuhlobo obuhlala kwimibutho yethu yezemidlalo engama-40 kunye ne-100+ yemibutho enokuthi inike ithuba
buhleli kwaye uqalise ukuseka uqhagamshelwano oluza kukunceda kubomi bakho bonke lokuvula umdla wakho wenkcubeko okanye womoya, ikwenza ukwazi ukubandakanyeka kwimiba
bomsebenzi wakho. yobulungisa ekuhlaleni, okanye uncede uphucule izakhono zakho zoshishino.
E-UCT, senza konke esinako ukuququzelela inkxaso-mali kubafundi abafanelekileyo. Ukuba Abafundi abaphumeleleyo base-UCT baphakathi kwabafundi abaphumeleleyo eMzantsi Afrika
udinga uncedo lwezemali kwizifundo zakho, nceda utyhile kwicandelo elichaza indlela yokufuna kwaye bonwabela elinye lawona mazinga aphezulu eliqeshwayo elizweni. Abafundi bethu bahlala
inkxaso-mali kwi-National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) kunye/ okanye usifaka njani bebizwa ngokuthe ngqo kwicandelo labucala, ngenxa yomsebenzi ogqwesileyo owenziwe
isicelo kwenye yezeengxowa-mali ze-UCT. licandelo lenkonzo yomsebenzi ye-UCT, edibanisa abaqeshi kunye nabathweswa-zidanga
bangomso. Ingcebiso ngamakhondo omsebenzi kunye nokubonisana okubonelelwa leli candelo
Zininzi izizathu ezifanelekileyo zokukhetha ukufunda apha. I-UCT iqhuba kakuhle ngokungaguqukiyo kuyafumaneka kubo bonke abafundi base-UCT kwaye ihlala iyinkonzo yasimahla iminyaka
kwiinkqubo ezahlukeneyo zokubeka iiyunivesithi zehlabathi ngenxa yokugqwesa kophando emithathu emva kokuthweswa isidanga.
lwethu, ukufundisa kunye nokusabela kwethu eluntwini. Uninzi lwezifundiswa zethu ziingcali
ezivunyiweyo kwihlabathi kwiinkalo zazo, kwaye zizisa obo buchule kwigumbi lokufundela. Iminqweno emihle ekwenzeni isigqibo sakho. Ndiyathemba ukuba ndiyakwamkela ngokwam
Umsebenzi wabo wokufunda kunye nokubandakanyeka kwabo kuphando oluya kuqinisekisa e-UCT kulo nyaka ozayo, xa sisungula inkqubo yethu yonyaka wokuqala yokuqhelaniswa
ukuba izifundo zakho ziya kuxhaswa kukuhambela phambili kolwazi. nezifundo eziza kukwazisa kule khampasi yethu intle kunye nalo lonke uluhlu lweenkonzo eziza
kwenza ukuba ixesha lakho e-UCT libe mnandi kwaye libe nemveliso ngokunokwenzeka.
Abasebenzi nabafundi bethu bazimisele ukujongana nemiba ebanzi ejongene nelizwekazi
lethu ngophando lwethu - kubandakanywa nezo zinxulumene nempilo, uqoqosho, ubulungisa Konke okuhle,
bezentlalo, ukunciphisa intlupheko kunye noncedo loluntu. Ukuba ukusebenza kwiingxaki Unjingalwazi Mamokgethi Phakeng, Usekela-Tshansela
2024 UNDERGRADUATE PROSPECTUS | 5

BOODSKAP VAN DIE Gebeure in Suid-Afrika en regoor die wêreld oor die afgelope paar jaar het ons een
ding geleer: die lewe hou baie onsekerhede in. Ons almal moet bereid wees om
aan te pas by verandering om onsself en ander te lei deur elke nuwe uitdaging – en
VISIE-KANSILIER om self ‘n uitdaging om te keer deur ‘n geleentheid te skep.
Dit is hoekom dit so belangrik is om aan die Universiteit van Kaapstad (UK) te studeer. As ‘n Ons studente het toegang tot die beste opvoeding, tesame met akademiese en sosiale
instansie het ons ‘n verbintenis gemaak om die voortou te neem om die wêreld ten goede ondersteuning om studente te help floreer, ongeag die omstandighede. Ons volg ‘n gemengde
te verander. Ons massiewe transformerende doel wat ons in ons visie 2030 se strategiese opvoedkundige formaat wat verskillende leerplatforms gebruik, insluitend aangesig-tot-
plan definieer, is om menslike potensiaal te ontketen om ‘n gelyke en regverdige samelewing aangesig sessies sowel as aanlyn toegang tot akademiese ondersteuning en leerhulpbronne.
te bewerkstellig.Ons is baie opgewonde dat jy belangstel om aan die UK te studeer en ek nooi
jou uit om by ons aan te sluit om die doel te bereik. Natuurlik is jou gesondheid en veiligheid ons eerste prioriteit. Ons erken dat baie nuwe
studente vir die eerste keer weg van die huis sal wees, dus het die UK ‘n netwerk van
Hierdie publikasie bevat al die nodige inligting om ‘n akademiese program te kies uit een van ondersteuningstrukture wat ‘n veiligheidsnet bied vir studente wat dalk hulp en leiding nodig
ons ses fakulteite: Handel, Ingenieurswese en die Bou-omgewing, Gesondheidswetenskappe het om by die kampuslewe aan te pas. Om te help bou aan ‘n gesonde en gebalanseerde
,Mense en Wysbegeerte, Regte en Wetenskappe. Elke fakulteit bied ‘n internasionaal erkende studentelewe, bied UK aan jou ‘n geleentheid om by een of meer van ons 40 sportklubs en die
kwalifikasie by een van die wêreld se mooiste en mees diverse kampusse. UK bied ook vir jou 100+ verenigings aan te sluit wat as ‘n uitlaatklep vir jou kulturele of geestelike belangstellings
‘n persoonlik verrykende studentelewe, waar jy blywende vriendskappe kan maak en ‘n kan dien, wat jou in staat stel om betrokke te raak by sosiale geregtigheidskwessies , of te help
netwerk kan begin vestig wat jou vir die res van jou professionele lewe sal dien. om jou entrepreneursvaardighede te slyp.
By UK doen ons alles in ons vermoë om befondsing vir verdienstelike studente te fasiliteer. UK-alumni bly onder Suid-Afrika se mees gesogte gegradueerdes, met een van die land
Indien jy finansiële bystand vir jou studies benodig, blaai asseblief na die afdeling wat uiteensit se hoogste gegradueerde indiensnemingsyfers. Ons studente word dikwels direk na die
hoe om befondsing by die Nasionale Finansiële Hulpskema vir Studente (NSFAS) te soek en/of privaatsektor gewerf, danksy die uitstekende werk wat deur die UK se Loopbaandienseenheid
hoe om aansoek te doen vir een van ‘n aantal UK-beurse. gedoen word, wat werkgewers met toekomstige gegradueerdes verbind. Loopbaanadvies
wat deur hierdie eenheid aangebied word, is beskikbaar vir alle UK-studente en bly ‘n gratis
Daar is baie goeie redes om van te kies om hier te studeer. UK presteer deurgaans goed diens vir drie jaar na graduering. Ons bied ook geleenthede vir studente-entrepreneurs wat
in verskeie wêrelduniversiteitsrangordestelsels vanweë die uitnemendheid van ons navorsing, hul eie besighede wil ontwikkel.
onderrig en sosiale responsiwiteit. Baie van ons akademici is internasionaal erkende kundiges
in hul velde, en hulle bring daardie kundigheid na die klaskamer. Hul vakkundige werk en Sterkte met die neem van hierdie belangrike besluit oor jou toekoms. Ek hoop om jou vroeg
betrokkenheid by baanbrekende navorsing waarborg dat jou studies ingelig sal word deur die in die komende jaar persoonlik by die UK te verwelkom, wanneer ons jaarlikse eerstejaar-
jongste vooruitgang in kennis. oriënteringsprogram jou sal bekendstel aan ons skouspelagtige kampus en die hele reeks
dienste wat jou tyd by die UK so aangenaam en produktief moontlik sal maak.
Ons personeel en studente is daartoe verbind om ‘n wye spektrum van kwessies wat ons
vasteland in die gesig staar deur ons navorsing aan te spreek - insluitend dié wat verband hou Alles van die beste,
met gesondheid, ekonomie, sosiale geregtigheid, armoedeverligting en humanitêre verligting. Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng, Visekanselier
As werk aan probleme wat jou eie gemeenskap raak jou opgewonde maak, kan UK jou help
om ‘n betekenisvolle bydrae tot die samelewing te maak.

To help you understand the contents of this prospectus, we list
below some of the terms that we use in this prospectus and
what we mean by these terms.
ADMISSION POINTS SCORE (APS):

This is a score calculated from your secondary school
performance. View the calculation formulae in this
prospectus.
ADMISSIONS SELECTION CRITERIA:

We use these to select whom we will accept to study at UCT.
First, we decide who has met the admission requirements.
Then, we apply the admissions selection criteria for the

programme concerned.
APPLICANT:
A person who applies to study for a degree, diploma or
certificate. Once you register at UCT, you become a student.
APPLICATION FEE:
This is the fee required as part of your application. It is non-
refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful.
APPLICANT NUMBER:
An alpha-numeric ‘number’ will be allocated to you to
identify and track your application. It normally consists of
the first three consonants of your surname, and the first
three characters of your first name, followed by a three digit
number. It is important that you quote this number in any
subsequent correspondence that you have with us.
USING THIS This prospectus is a guide for school-leavers and others who
are interested in studying for an undergraduate qualification
at the University of Cape Town (UCT). It introduces you to
APPLICANT STATUS:
Once you have submitted your application, you may monitor
the progress of your application online by logging into Student
PROSPECTUS life at UCT, describing the campus and detailing the services
and facilities we provide for students.
Self-Service with the username and password we provide you
after application.
Details of all undergraduate programmes offered are DISADVANTAGE FACTOR:

provided. We recommend that you also visit the websites of This is a percentage, from 0 to 10%, by which we adjust the
faculties and departments in which you may be interested. FPS of South African, NSC candidates to arrive at the WPS.
The disadvantage factor is in turn derived
from factors related to the disadvantage
experienced by applicants in their school and
at home.
EARLY CONDITIONAL OFFER:

This is an offer of admission, made during
the course of the year preceding admission,
which is conditional on performance in
your final secondary school examinations.
Early conditional offers are not made to all
applicants.
An early conditional offer will be withdrawn

if the conditions for admission are not met.
FACULTY POINTS SCORE (FPS):

This is the score we use to rank applicants. In two
faculties, Health Sciences and Science, the APS is
adapted to calculate the FPS. In the other faculties,
the APS equals the FPS.
FACULTY:
A faculty is a grouping of departments that offers specific degree,
diploma and certificate programmes. There are six faculties at UCT.
Students register in a faculty.
MATRICULATION / MATRICULATION ENDORSEMENT:

If you obtain a NSC endorsed for bachelors degree study you do not need a matriculation
certificate or a certificate of exemption. If your school-leaving certificate is from another
examining authority you will need to obtain a matriculation exemption certificate.
MINIMUM ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

What you must have: for example, Mathematics is required for admission to some
programmes. These are necessary requirements you must meet, but are not necessarily
sufficient for entry.
NATIONAL BENCHMARK TESTS (NBTS):

Most undergraduate applicants who normally reside, or have completed/are completing
schooling, in South Africa must write the NBTs. Applicants applying for admission to a
programme only in the Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment are not required to

GLOSSARY AND
ABBREVIATIONS OF COMMON
APPLICATION-RELATED TERMS
A Level Advanced Level
AL Academic Literacy
AP Advanced Programme
APS Admission Points Score
AS Advanced Subsidiary Level

write the NBTs. Applicants applying for admission to a REGISTRATION:
programme in the Faculty of Health Sciences, excluding and If you are offered a study place, you must register as a student FPS Faculty Points Score
the Advanced Diploma in Cosmetic Formulation Science, before the start of the first term. We call this registration.
and all applicants to the undergraduate LLB programme Registration gives you a student status, commits you to a GCSE General Certificate of Secondary Education
must write the NBTs, wherever they may reside. certain programme, and commits you to pay fees for it.
IB SL International Baccalaureate Standard Level
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE (NSC): SCHOOL SUBJECT REQUIREMENTS:
IB HL International Baccalaureate Higher Level
Since 2008, South African school-leavers write the NSC The subjects and ratings that you must obtain to be
examinations. This may be under the auspices of one considered for admission for a particular degree, IGCSE International General Certificate of
of three examining authorities: The Department of diploma or certificate programme. Obtaining the Secondary Education
Basic Education (DBE), the Independent Examinations NSC with bachelors endorsement and meeting the
Board (IEB) or the South African Comprehensive minimum admission requirement does not guarantee NBT National Benchmark Tests
Assessment Institute (SACAI). Scores in this prospectus you admission to UCT.
are calculated for NSC applicants. NSC National Senior Certificate
UNDERGRADUATE:
PROGRAMME: Denoting or relating to a first qualification. This NSSC Namibian Senior School Certificate
Students enter a degree, diploma or certificate prospectus is intended for you if you wish to be
OL Ordinary Level
programme, which is a combination of subjects that admitted to an undergraduate programme at UCT.
have been constructed to provide you with a particular QL Quantitative Literacy
knowledge and skills base, and leads to a qualification. WEIGHTED POINTS SCORE (WPS):
For South African NSC applicants only, this is the faculty WPS Weighted Points Score
REDRESS CATEGORY: points score weighted by the disadvantage factor
The redress category is derived, for South African applicable to each applicant. ZIMSEC Zimbabwean Schools Examination Council
applicants only, from the racial classification of their
parents during Apartheid.

This prospectus can only give you a flavour of life at UCT. While there
are ordinarily many opprtunities for applicants and their parents to
visit our campuses, restrictions as a result of the pandemic may apply.
Please monitor developments during the course of 2023.
UCT OPEN DAY
Every year we host Open Day aimed at secondary school learners in

grades 10, 11 & 12, their families and teachers. Unfortunately, due to
restrictions caused by the pandemic, no Open Day was possible in 2021
and 2022. The risks considered in 2021 and 2022 remain present, and
in 2023 an Open Day is on our calendar for May.
THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE
The Admissions Office is open between 08h30 and 16h30, Mondays to

Fridays, except for Thursdays when we open at 09h30.
Most of our services remain available remotely, including:
• Addresses to grade 11 and 12 learners at schools
• Grade 9 subject-choice talks
• Individual interviews with applicants
• Advice on study options
• Assistance with the application procedure
• Campus tours
PARENTS’ ORIENTATION
Parents of new undergraduate students are invited to attend Parents’

Orientation each year. The programme allows for parents to be addressed
by the Vice-Chancellor, and meet the Deans.
VISITING For more information about visiting UCT or the

services listed above, contact:
UCT THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE:

Tel:
Email:
+27 (0)21 650 2128
[email protected]
Website: www.uct.ac.za

ABOUT CAPE TOWN
Many sports are offered at UCT and there is an active cultural life, both on campus and
in and around the city. Cape Town forms the hub of the Western Cape, and it is the
centre of politics, business, industry and services in the region. This region provides
an ideal ‘laboratory’ for much of UCT’s teaching and research. UCT is the oldest
AND UCT university in South Africa and is one of the leading research universities on the African
continent. UCT has over 29 000 students, of whom 30% are postgraduates. Some
5 500 degrees and diplomas are awarded each year in our six faculties: Commerce,
Engineering & the Built Environment, Health Sciences, Humanities, Law and Science.
We pride ourself on our diverse student body, which reflects the many cultures and
One of the most popular destinations in the world, Cape Town has it all. With beaches, backgrounds of the region.
mountains, forests and UCT on your doorstep, Cape Town is a historic, cosmopolitan
city with a vibrant, contemporary culture of music and art, as well as a host of sport We welcome international students and are currently home to over 5 000 international
and leisure activities. students from over 100 countries.
UCT’s main campus lies on the lower slopes of Devil’s Peak in the Cape Peninsula. The UCT has a tradition of academic excellence and research that is respected world-wide.
Peninsula and its environs feature some of the most breath-taking scenery in the world Past students include five Nobel Laureates – Max Theiler, Alan Cormack, Sir Aaron Klug,
and offer you a unique natural environment to explore during your leisure time. Ralph Bunche and J M Coetzee.
KEY
DATES 31
OCT • For applicants finishing 15
secondary school in 2023, all NOV • Deadline for international
2023 grade 12 interim results, or
predicted scores in the case of
applicants to attract an
offer of admission. This
non-NSC candidates, are due. is necessary to allow for
• Interim and past transcripts for sufficient time to obtain a
transferring applicants are due. study visa.
• Proof of English language
proficiency is due.
03 • All applications open

APR • Registration for the
National Benchmark
15 • The final date to write the 31 • All final transcripts and
OCT NBTs for admission to UCT. DEC non-NSC school-leaving
Tests (NBTs) open.
results (except CAIE, IB,
NSSC and ZIMSEC) must
be submitted.
13 • UCT Open Day
MAY
30 • Final date to submit the

2024
31 • All undergraduate applications
SEPT Bachelor of Architectural
Studies (BAS) portfolio
JULY close. We do not accept late
applications.
• Applications for student housing 15 • Final CAIE, IB, NSSC and
close. JAN ZIMSEC results from the
• Preferred date for submission November 2023 session
of BAS portfolio for early are due.
consideration.
• The last date to write the NBTs if
31 • Closing date for undergraduate
AUG programme changes. Requests must
you wish to be considered for a be sent to [email protected]
conditional offer by the Faculty of with the subject line “Request for
Health Sciences. programme change”.
• Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art (BA(FA))
portfolios are due.
APPLICATION &
ADMISSION TO UCT
ADMISSIONS POLICY
percentage of the FPS to the FPS to derive the weighted
Our admissions policy is designed to ensure that top achievers Faculty Point Score (WPS). For more information visit
are offered places at UCT, and to ensure a diverse student Disadvantage Factor Calculator.
body by incorporating measures for redress and measures
to ensure that the incoming cohort increasingly reflects the In other words, if the disadvantage factor is 7%, we calculate
demographic diversity of our country. the WPS as follows: WPS = FPS + (7% X FPS).
WE START BY: If there is a zero redress factor (no school or family disadvantage
• setting minimum levels of academic achievement for or an international applicant) then the factor is 0% and WPS
each programme, below which we will not offer a place; = FPS + 0 = FPS.
• setting the class size for each programme and
• setting an aspirational demographic enrolment target for REDRESS FOR DIVERSITY
each programme; and determining selection methods. We categorise all South African applicants (not international
applicants) according to the categorisation of their parents’
THE FACULTY POINTS SCORE race under apartheid. This allows us to have a proxy for the
The Faculty Points Score (FPS) (calculated in different ways to applicant’s race.
meet the needs of each faculty) is used to rank applicants; a
small number of the best applicants will be offered places on We use these categories to give priority in making selection
the basis of the FPS. decisions to ensure that we meet the diversity targets we set
for each programme/plan.
REDRESS ON THE BASIS OF DISADVANTAGE
As our South African history has been, and in many These are the four designated redress categories used to give
cases continues to be, one of gross inequality usually effect to our admissions policy.
structured along racial lines, a key element of Redress category 1: An applicant with at least one parent
our admissions policy is to provide for redress classified as Black under apartheid
for South African citizens and permanent Redress category 2: An applicant with at least one parent
residents on the basis of disadvantage. classified as Coloured (and the other not as Black) under
To do this we look at the school the apartheid
applicant attends/attended and their Redress category 3: An applicant with at least one parent
family background. This yields a classified as Indian (and the other not as Black or Coloured)
disadvantage factor, expressed under apartheid
as a percentage from 0% to Redress category 4: An applicant with at least one parent
10% (or for the programmes in classified as Chinese (and the other not as Black, Coloured or
the Faculty of Health Sciences, Indian) under apartheid
from 0% to 20%). We add this

SELECTION METHODS receipt and asking you to check the data we have captured from your
HOW TO When making offers, we:

• select a proportion of the programme/plan using the unweighted
FPS; this we call Band A.
form. Once we have your application our faculties will consider it and
all updates/decisions will be sent to your registered email address.
APPLY • select a proportion (usually a bigger proportion) of the class

using the weighted score – the WPS – in which we make a
significant allowance for school and/or family disadvantage and
When we acknowledge receipt of your application, we will give
you your applicant number, (which is also your username, campus
ID and student number) and password for access to Student Self-
this we call Band B. Service. At any stage you will be able to track the status of your
• select the remaining members of the class in FPS rank order from application, using these log-in credentials. If all your applications
Apply online at
http://applyonline.uct.ac.za redress categories in order to constitute each class for diversity; are cancelled/denied, you will no longer have access to Student
this we call Band C. Self-Service. Use your applicant number when you contact us as it
Alternatively, contact the Admissions will help us track and update your application. You may check the
Office for an application form or WHAT IS THE APPLICATION FEE? status of your application and update your application, as required,
download one from our site at http:// South African and SADC applicants must pay a non-refundable at studentsonline.uct.ac.za
www.students.uct.ac.za/students/ application fee of R100. Other international applicants are required
applications/apply/forms. You must to pay an application fee of R300. Application fees will not be Your application will have one of several statuses while it is being
submit only one application. refunded under any circumstances. processed. These include:
• Application submitted: typically shortly after we first receive
Your application allows you to choose
Paying your application fee does not mean you will be offered a place your application
two programmes. It is in your interest
to seek advice about your programme to study at UCT. The application fee may be paid by direct deposit, • Decision deferred: for any number of reasons, we may not
choices, since this selection may affect electronic funds transfer (EFT) or credit card. Cash payments may only be able to take a decision to admit or deny an application yet
your chances of admission. be made at the Cashiers Office, Kramer Building, Cross Campus Road, because we do not have enough information. An example
Middle Campus, UCT. Credit card payments must be made online at would be that the applicant’s performance at school is not yet
When you apply to UCT, your payments.uct.ac.za/admissions/. Currently registered UCT students, strong enough to attract an offer of admission
application will be dealt with by the UCT graduates and Semester Study Abroad applicants do not pay an • Conditional offer: we have made an offer of admission, based
Admissions Office and by the Faculty application fee. on certain conditions being met
that offers your choice of study. • Firm offer: we have made a firm offer of admission, without
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOUR APPLICATION HAS any conditions
You can contact the Admissions
BEEN SUBMITTED? • Deny: the application is unsuccessful
Office at any time before or during
You will get an email acknowledgement setting out what you have to • Waitlisted: you have met all the criteria for admission, but
the application process, and we will
be happy to give you help or advice. do next. If you apply by completing a paper application form, and you we are unable to make you an offer because, for example, the
do not have an email address, we will write to you, acknowledging applicant pool is very competitive
YOU CAN CONTACT US:

Tel: +27 (0)21 650 2128
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.uct.ac.za
Twitter: @uctadmissions
FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE AT
https://www.youtube.com/c/
UCTAdmissions
EARLY CONDITIONAL OFFERS GENERAL ELIGIBILITY FOR ADMISSION TO
Conditional offers are offers of admission which are dependent on you meeting one or more conditions. We will UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMMES
specify such conditions to you in our communication. We make conditional offers throughout the application cycle.
In order to be considered for admission to a programme, an
For NSC applicants, conditional offers will usually (but not necessarily) be made once a strong enough set of internal applicant must, in the first instance, be eligible for consideration.
As an undergraduate applicant to UCT you must be aware of the
examination results and the NBT results are available. Conditional offers will only be confirmed once the final FPS and
following, and satisfy criteria which apply to you.
NBT results are available, and provided both the FPS and NBT results confirm that the admission criteria have been
satisfied. For applicants doing international secondary school leaving qualifications, we typically require all possible • National Senior Certificate (NSC) applicants must, for
submissions before final secondary school leaving results are available. Examples of important submissions to support admission to higher certificate, diploma or degree
conditional offers are predicted scores, IGCSE results and SAT results. programmes have met the NSC requirements for such
endorsement.
SCORE CALCULATIONS FOR NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE (NSC) APPLICANTS ONLY • If you do not meet the minimum requirements for UCT
admission but you are 23 years or older and have a Grade 12
For applicants writing the NSC we use an Admission Points Score (APS), a Faculty Points Score (FPS) and, in the case (school-leaving) certificate, you may qualify for a mature age
of South African applicants, a Weighted Points Score (WPS) to assess your performance at school. The scores are exemption. If you fall into this category, you should discuss
described in detail on the next pages. the possibility of conditional exemption with the relevant
faculty office. Applicants with mature age exemption are not
The percentages achieved in NSC examinations (preliminary and final examinations) will be allocated an admissions considered for programmes offered in the Faculties of Health
score equal to that percentage. Sciences or Law.
• Applicants with non-South African secondary school leaving
To calculate your APS (a score out of a maximum of 600), add English and the five best other subjects percentages, certificates must have met the requirements for matriculation
excluding Life Orientation and scores for AP subjects, but including any other required subject(s) for the relevant exemption.
programme. (In other words, for a programme where Mathematics and Physical Sciences are required, take the • All applicants, in the final secondary school leaving
scores for English, Mathematics, Physical Sciences and the next best three subjects other than Life Orientation and AP assessment, must have achieved the minimum criteria for
subjects to calculate your APS.) Results below 40% for any subject do not attract a score. In order to determine which admission to the programme/s of their choice. These include:
subjects are required for admission to particular programmes, refer to the faculty sections that follow. - the required APS, FPS or WPS as it may apply to the
programme of choice
To calculate your FPS, the APS will be adjusted as described below in the calculation examples. Two faculties - performance for required secondary
(Health Sciences and Science) adjust the APS when calculating the FPS. For the rest (Commerce, school subjects
Engineering & the Built Environment, Humanities and Law), the APS equals the FPS. In order to - performances in the applicable
calculate the FPS for the Faculty of Science, double the scores achieved for Mathematics and components of the NBTs
Physical Sciences (the Science FPS is out of 800). Where an applicant has not completed - any other requirements, as
Physical Sciences, Information Technology or Life Sciences may be doubled (this is outlined in the faculty
only allowed for certain majors as stipulated in the faculty entry). ections, that may be
applicable to specific
When calculating the FPS for the Faculty of Health Sciences (a score out of a programmes.
maximum of 900), add the sum of the three NBT scores to the APS.
For South African applicants only, in order to calculate the WPS, adjust the
FPS by the disadvantage factor applicable to you. This is a percentage from
0% to 10%, except for applications for admission to the programmes in
the Faculty of Health Sciences, where the range is from 0% to 20%.
EXAMPLES OF POINTS SCORE CALCULATIONS FOR NSC APPLICANTS
Note: Technical Mathematics and Technical Science may not be used as substitutes for Mathematics and Physical Sciences respectively.
Examples of points score calculations for NSC applicants Use the disadvantage factor to derive the weighted score: for the purpose of this example
the disadvantage factor is 20%.
1. FACULTIES OF COMMERCE, ENGINEERING & THE BUILT Add 20% as follows: Disadvantage factor = 20% x FPS = 20% x 628 = 125.6
ENVIRONMENT, HUMANITIES AND LAW WPS = 754 (628+125.6)
In these faculties, the FPS is calculated out of 600. [for South African
English Home Language 75% = 75 pts applicants only]
isiXhosa First Additional Language 70% = 70 pts
Mathematics 84% = 84 pts An additional 10 points are added if you have passed a third official South African language
Life Sciences 86% = 86 pts at Home or First Additional Language Level.
Geography 79% = 79 pts
Accounting 69% = 69 pts 3. FACULTY OF SCIENCE
Life Orientation 80% = 0 pts The FPS is calculated out of 800.
Total = 463/600 English Home Language 75% = 75 pts

FPS = 463 isiXhosa First Additional Language 70% = 70 pts
Mathematics 84% = 84 pts
Use the disadvantage factor to derive the weighted score: Physical Sciences 86% = 86 pts
for the purpose of this example the disadvantage factor is 10%. Geography 79% = 79 pts
Disadvantage factor = 10% (46) Accounting 69% = 69 pts
WPS = 509 (463+46) Life Orientation 80% = 0 pts
[for South African
applicants only] APS = 463/600
2. FACULTY OF HEALTH SCIENCES Scores for Mathematics and Physical Sciences are doubled; therefore, 170 (84+86)
The FPS is calculated out of 900. is added to the APS:
English Home Language 75% = 75 pts FPS = 633 /800
isiXhosa First Additional Language 70% = 70 pts
Mathematics 84% = 84 pts Use the disadvantage factor to derive the weighted score: for the purpose of this example
Life Sciences 86% = 86 pts the disadvantage factor is 0%.
Physical Sciences 79% = 79 pts Disadvantage factor = 0%
Accounting 69% = 69 pts WPS = 633 (633+0)
Life Orientation 80% = 0 pts [for South African
APS = 463/600 applicants only]
NBT Scores of: AL: 55%
QL: 60%
MAT: 50%
Make a total 165/300, added to 463

FPS = 628/900
16
SCORE CALCULATION FOR SELECTED
NON-SOUTH AFRICAN EXAMINING AUTHORITIES
ADMISSION POINTS TABLE
NSSC AS A
Points IGCSE IB SL IB HL
HL LEVELS LEVELS
10 A 7
9 B 6
8 1 A C 7 5
7 2 B D 6 4
6 A 3 C E 5 3
5 B D 4
4 C E
The table above is an indication of how we rate results for subjects, taken at various levels, for
some school-leaving qualifications. In some faculties we do not use an APS for admission, but subject
requirements are published as minimum requirements, and applications are considered individually.
Please note, applicants require six different subjects, excluding Life Orientation and any of the AP
subjects in order to apply.
CURRENT UCT STUDENTS APPLYING FOR UNDERGRADUATE TRANSFERS

If you are currently registered for an undergraduate programme at UCT, and wish to transfer to
another faculty other than Health Sciences or another programme in your faculty, you are not required
to submit a new application but must consult with the faculty that you wish to transfer to. If you wish
to transfer to the Faculty of Health Sciences, you must apply online on or before 31 July 2023.
TRANSFERRING STUDENTS
If you are studying at, or completed studies at, another higher education institution, you will be
considered on the basis of your school-leaving results and your higher education results. In addition,
transferring applicants are required to write the NBTs, and may be asked to submit a letter of motivation.
To be considered for admission, you must have met the school-leaving requirements and have a good
academic record and satisfactory conduct from your previous institution. You will need to submit an
interim academic transcript and a certificate of good conduct with your application, and your final, year-
end transcript as soon as they are available and no later than 31 December 2023.
Listening, 19 in Writing, 20 in Reading,
and 22 in Speaking.
• A valid (no more than 2 years old) IELTS

Academic Test Report Form with an overall
score of band 6.5 or above, with at least 6.0 in
each component.
• A valid (no more than 2 years old) PTE Academic
Score Report with an overall score of 67 or above, with
at least 59 in each communicative skills component.
For more information about the TOEFL (including information

on how to register for the tests and dates when tests are
APPLICANTS REPEATING NSC SUBJECTS held), use one of the following contacts:
For applicants that are repeating one or more NSC subjects, we Email: [email protected]
will use your best mark for that subject, when evaluating your Website: www.toefl.org
application. Information on TOEFL is also available from the American
Embassy or Consulate in your country.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
English language proficiency is a requirement for study at Information about the IELTS may be obtained from the British
UCT. All international students for whom English is not a first/ Council at the British Embassy or Consulate in your country.
home language or have not passed English at NSC Grade Information on IELTS is also available from the British Council,
12, AS-level, IGCSE, IB, NSSC, ZIMSEC level or equivalent South Africa:
secondary school-leaving qualification from an English Tel: +27 11 560 9300
medium-of-instruction institution must provide proof of Email: [email protected]
English language proficiency. Website: www.britishcouncil.org.za/exam/ielts
UCT’S ENGLISH LANGUAGE ADMISSION If you are writing an English proficiency test you must ensure
REQUIREMENTS ARE that the test score is received by our Admissions Office no
As part of your application to study at UCT, you must submit later than 31 October 2023.
one of the following:
• A valid (no more than 3 years old) NBT Academic The NBTs are offered by the Centre for Educational
Literacy Test Plus report with an overall score of Upper Assessments (CEA) and can be arranged to be taken
Intermediate or above. The NBTs are offered by the Centre anywhere in the world (visit www.nbt.ac.za for details). For
for Educational Assessments (CEA) and can be arranged graduate applicants, this is 68% (proficient) or above on the
to be taken anywhere in the world. (Visit www.nbt.ac.za Graduate Academic Literacy (G-AL) and 70% (proficient)
for details) or above on the Graduate Quantitative (G-QL) Tests, unless
• A valid (no more than 2 years old) TOEFL iBT Score Report otherwise stipulated.
with an overall score of 88 or above, with at least 19 in

WHAT ARE THE NATIONAL BENCHMARK TESTS?
The NBTs are three multiple-choice tests written as a combined
Academic Literacy and Quantitative Literacy test and a separate
Mathematics test. The Academic and Quantitative Literacy Test (AQL) is
a three-hour test which consists of an Academic Literacy (AL) section and
a Quantitative Literacy (QL) section. The results of the two sections of the
test are reported separately.
The Academic Literacy (AL) Test tests your capacity to engage successfully with
the demands of academic study in the language of instruction which is English at
UCT. The Quantitative Literacy (QL) Test targets your ability to manage situations
or solve problems in a real context that is relevant to higher education study,
using basic quantitative information that may be presented verbally, graphically, in
tabular or symbolic form. The Mathematics Test is a three-hour test which targets
a writer’s ability related to mathematical concepts formally regarded as part of the
secondary school curriculum relevant for Higher Education studies.
WHO WRITES WHAT?

Applicants to the Faculties of Humanities and Law write the Academic and
Quantitative Literacy test only. Applicants to Commerce, Health Sciences
and Science write the Academic and Quantitative Literacy test as well as the
Mathematics test. The completion of the Mathematics syllabus is not a prerequisite
for writing the Mathematics Test.
NATIONAL
Admissions and placement tests have been used REGISTERING FOR YOUR NATIONAL BENCHMARK TESTS
at UCT for over 30 years. The National Benchmark Write the NBTs as early as possible in 2023.
Tests (NBTs) are administered by the Centre for
BENCHMARK
Educational Assessment (CEA). NOTE: The 2023 NBT test calendar has twenty five test dates. Five of these test
dates are Online NBT test sessions and twenty sessions will be held at physical
All undergraduate applicants who are normally venues for pencil and paper NBT tests.
TESTS
resident or at school in South Africa must write
the NBTs, and all applicants to programmes in the The final date to write the NBTs for admission to UCT is 15 October 2023. If you
Faculty of Health Sciences must write the NBTs wish to be considered for a conditional offer by the Faculty of Health Sciences,
wherever they reside. International applicants to you must write the NBTs by 31 July 2023; if you write the NBTs after 31 July, you
undergrad LLB must write the AL part of the NBT. will only be considered for an offer in early 2024 after the final NSC examination
The only exception is application to programmes in results are received. In summary, our advice to you is to:
the Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment, • write the NBTs on the day for which you registered, as you are liable for the
for which NBTs are not required. Applicants are fees regardless of whether you write or not
responsible for the costs of writing the NBTs. • rewrite the NBTs if you wish to improve your results. Whether you write once
Information regarding the use of the test scores or twice, your results for tests written after 15 October 2023 may not be
in each faculty can be found in the faculty pages. considered at UCT.
HOW ARE THE TEST RESULTS USED?
The test results are used in addition to secondary school-leaving academic performance and If both tests are written, you will probably complete them at about 17h00. They must also be
do not replace the use of school-leaving results. In the case of applications to the Faculty of written at the same sitting. Testing dates and venues are available on the NBT web site at www.
Health Sciences, the National Benchmark Test results make up a specific proportion of an nbt.ac.za. Alternatively please call the NBT Project.
applicant’s overall Faculty Points Score. (See the Faculty specific section in this prospectus for
more information). MAY I WRITE THE NBTS MORE THAN ONCE?
You may attempt the NBTs at most twice in one test cycle, but:
The NBT results may also be used to decide admission to an extended or foundation programme. • you will have to register for each attempt;
• you will have to pay the NBT test fee each time you do so;
CAN I WRITE THE NBTS OUTSIDE OF SOUTH AFRICA? • you will receive one unique registration number for both NBT attempts;
Yes. Writing the NBTs in a remote venue, or outside of South Africa Remote sessions are run • If you write a second time, and the admission requirements applicable to you require you to
when someone is unable to write online or at an institution that generally facilitates the National write the AQL and Mathematics tests (three domains), you must rewrite both tests;
Benchmark Test sessions. Usually, these are for test writers in another country or in an area too • we will use your best NBT results for each of AL, QL and MAT.
remote to be able to make a trip of a reasonable distance to the nearest testing centre, and
where a suitable internet connection is not available. Should you wish to request a remote venue, WHAT MUST YOU TAKE TO THE TESTS?
please contact the NBT Project at [email protected]. • Online tests have a minimum computing requirements that are detailed on the NBT website.
• your SA identity or non-SA passport
PROVISION FOR CANDIDATES WITH DISABILITIES • lunch (not all physical venues are close to shops)
Provision is made for test candidates with disabilities. We have successfully accommodated • HB pencil and eraser
candidates who are blind, visually, hearing or mobility/physically impaired, have a learning • bus/train/taxi fare for returning home
disability, or have a chronic illness that requires special accommodations. Time concessions, • please note that you will not be allowed to use calculators, dictionaries or rulers in any of
readers, scribes, and braille versions of the tests have been made available. Please contact the the tests.
NBT Helpdesk for further information and for special accommodations.
2023 TEST VENUES
HOW TO REGISTER FOR NBTS NBTs are available online in a secure proctored environment, or as pencil and paper tests.
You may register online at www.nbt.ac.za. After reading the general information and the FAQs,
select the ‘Book a test’ option and follow all instructions. Note that you will need your SA identity For the pencil and paper tests of the NBTs, please check & confirm venues on the website at
number or non-SA passport number in order to register. www.nbt.ac.za. The testing venues will be clearly sign posted on the days the tests are written.
The NBT Project reserves the right to change the venue as circumstances require.
If you encounter problems during the registration process, call +27 (0)21 650 3523 or send an
email to [email protected] for assistance. HOW DO YOU GET YOUR TEST RESULTS?
About four weeks after writing, you may access your results on the NBT website. Log on using
your SA identity number or non-SA passport number. Your scores will also be sent to UCT for use
THE NBT HELPDESK IS STAFFED in processing your application.
From 08:00 to 16:00 weekdays and
From 07:00 to 10:00 on national test days
(Full support is available during online sessions). NBT CONTACT INFORMATION
Tel: +27 (0)21 650 3523
THE DAY OF THE TESTS Email: [email protected]
The tests begin at 08h00 at many venues throughout South Africa. The Academic and
Website: www.nbt.ac.za
Quantitative Literacy (AQL) test is written in the morning session and the Mathematics (MAT)
Twitter: @nbt_za
test in the afternoon.
Instagram: @nbts_sa
DEGREE BENCHMARK PERFORMANCE LEVELS NBT DATES FOR 2023/2024 APPLICANTS
Academic Literacy Quantitative Literacy Mathematics All dates contained in our publications and correspondence are subject
Benchmark
to change.
Performance Levels Minimum Maximum Minimum Maximum Minimum Maximum
Proficient 69 100 70 100 69 100
REGISTRATION FOR ALL NBT SESSIONS OPENS 3 APRIL 2023
Intermediate 35 68 40 69 37 68
Basic 0 34 0 39 0 36 NBT Test Dates 2023 Last day to Results available
for 2024 Intake register online to writers
DEGREE BENCHMARK PERFORMANCE LEVELS SPLIT INTO UPPER AND LOWER 13** 23 Apr 12 Jun
BOUNDARIES* May
20 30 Apr 19 Jun
Benchmark Academic Literacy Quantitative Literacy Mathematics
Performance Levels Minimum Maximum Minimum Maximum Minimum Maximum 3 14 May 3 Jul
Proficient Upper 85 100 85 100 85 100 10 21 May 10 Jul
June
Proficient Lower 69 84 70 84 69 84 11* 21 May 10 Jul
Intermediate Upper 52 68 55 69 53 68
24** 4 Jun 24 Jul
Intermediate Lower 35 51 40 54 37 52
1 11 Jun 31 Jul
Basic Upper 18 34 20 39 19 36
Basic Lower 0 17 0 19 0 18
2* 11 Jun 31 Jul
8 18 Jun 7 Aug
DIPLOMA AND HIGHER CERTIFICATE BENCHMARK PERFORMANCE LEVELS Jul 15 25 Jun 14 Aug
Benchmark Academic Literacy Quantitative Literacy Mathematics 16* 25 Jun 14 Aug

Performance Levels Minimum Maximum Minimum Maximum Minimum Maximum 22** 2 Jul 21 Aug
Proficient 61 100 66 100 63 100 29 9 Jul 28 Aug
Intermediate 33 60 34 65 33 62
12 23 Jul 11 Sep
Basic 0 32 0 33 0 32
13* 23 Jul 11 Sep
Aug
DIPLOMA AND HIGHER CERTIFICATE BENCHMARK PERFORMANCE LEVELS SPLIT 19 30 Jul 18 Sep
INTO UPPER AND LOWER BOUNDARIES*
26** 6 Aug 25 Sep
Benchmark Academic Literacy Quantitative Literacy Mathematics
9 20 Aug 9 Oct
Performance Levels Minimum Maximum Minimum Maximum Minimum Maximum
Sep 16 27 Aug 16 Oct
Proficient Upper 81 100 83 100 82 100
Proficient Lower 61 80 66 82 63 81
30 10 Sep 30 Oct
Intermediate Upper 47 60 50 65 48 62 7** 24 Sep 6 Nov

Oct
Intermediate Lower 33 46 34 49 33 47 14 24 Sep 13 Nov
Basic Upper 18 32 17 33 17 32
Basic Lower 0 17 0 16 0 16 *Sunday test session
* Equated scores are reported as a whole number percentage (i.e., rounded, with zero decimal places) **Online Sessions
FACULTY OF COMMERCE ABOUT THE FACULTY
UCT’s Commerce degrees and diplomas prepare you for the employment
needs of the expanding world of business and professional services and
equip you to participate in the global economy.
A Commerce degree will give you the educational foundation to enable

you to succeed in a rapidly changing environment, whether you want
to work locally or internationally, change jobs or even careers.
We do not expect students new to university to finalise their standard form or as academic development programmes tailored for
specialisation choices before being exposed to the disciplines at a students who may have had varied educational and life experiences
tertiary level, so the more similar the specialisation, the more flexibility including disparities.
students have to move around as they discover where their strengths
and interests lie. In the early stages of the degree, you may choose The degree certificate will stipulate whether you have graduated with a
to move from one degree to another, changing specialisations as you BCom or BBusSc and the area of specialisation. All BBusSc students also
understand more about the disciplines. take courses in the functional areas of Finance, Marketing and People
Management. In their final year, students take a course in Strategic.
WHAT WE OFFER Thinking that integrates all the courses covered in the previous years
of study. This course also includes exposure to entrepreneurship,
The Faculty of Commerce offers two undergraduate degrees, the recognising that many students will ultimately run their own businesses.
Bachelor of Commerce and the Bachelor of Business Science.
If you are offered a place in Commerce you can choose either degree,
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS SCIENCE (BBUSSC) & BACHELOR BCom or BBusSc and any specialisation for which you meet the entrance
OF COMMERCE (BCOM) requirements.
Both degrees allow for a variety of specialisations to cater for both EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT UNIT (EDU COMMERCE)
the interests of our students and the employment needs of our www.educommerce.uct.ac.za/
country. The first year curriculum is more or less common as all
Commerce graduates need a solid academic foundation in core The Education Development Unit (EDU) has a mandate to assist the
subject areas: Accounting, Information Systems, Economics, Business Faculty of Commerce with its transformation agenda and to engage with
Law, Mathematics, Business Statistics, Mathematical Statistics, the quality of teaching and learning, ensuring student success and the
Critical thinking (Evidence-based Management) and broad development of competencies and skills. The values which inform
Business Ethics. the work of the EDU are shaped by social justice and equity concerns.
The BBusSc is a four-year qualification, and The EDU houses the academic development programmes which have
the BCom is a three-year qualification. been designed to enable students with a disadvantage factor greater
than 1.0 to complete Commerce degrees over either a standard or
Both degrees are offered in the extended period.
UG PROSPECTUS 2024 ADMISSION | 23

one-year Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting
(PGDA), followed by a three-year training
contract and two SAICA qualifying professional
exams (including an exam preparation course).
The General Accounting option is designed for

the student who does not wish to pursue the
CA(SA) designation but may still be interested
in obtaining a Chartered Accountant designation
from other international professional bodies such as
the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
(ACCA) or the Chartered Institute of Management
Accountants (CIMA).
Graduates of either stream may go into areas of commercial

specialisation such as tax advisory, internal audit, financial
consulting, or external audit and assurance, although certain
professions may require specific professional designations such as CA(SA).
The Accounting and Law option is designed for students who are interested in a law career
with a commercial background. Students who want to become an attorney or advocate after
AREAS OF STUDY OFFERED completing this undergraduate degree can apply to do a two-year postgraduate LLB degree
in the Faculty of Law.
ACCOUNTING
www.accounting.uct.ac.za/ ACTUARIAL SCIENCE
Accountants understand the flow of money. Accounting uses financial information to assist www.actuarialscience.uct.ac.za/
with operational and strategic decision making in organisations. All organisations employ This is intended for students with a strong numerate ability who wish to enter the actuarial
professional accountants. Accountants can work in different areas, including financial or allied professions. In Actuarial Science, students learn to identify and evaluate uncertain
reporting, tax, management accounting and decision making, auditing and corporate future events and financial risks for organisations. Actuaries use statistical techniques to solve
governance, or the broader economy. Many people who qualify as professional accountants financial and business problems. Actuaries typically work in insurance, risk management,
later choose careers in senior management. and banking.
It is NOT necessary to have done Accounting at school if you wish to do Accounting at UCT, Quantitative Finance shares the same foundations as Actuarial Science, but with more
although you must have done Mathematics and English. emphasis on applications in the investment and financial industries. Career options include
fields like investment banking, derivatives trading, and quantitative asset management.
A CA(SA) is someone who becomes a chartered accountant through the South African
Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA). Commerce offers two undergraduate COMPUTER SCIENCE
programmes that allow students to follow the CA(SA) path – the three-year BCom Financial www.sit.uct.ac.za/
Accounting: Chartered Accountant and the four-year BBusSc Financial Accounting: Finance Computer Science is about the creation of computer software using programming languages,
with Accounting. After either of these undergraduate degrees, students need to complete a which is required for economic, social and for human development in every country. Computer
Scientists have the ability to design and develop software, to understand the concepts of • Economics with Law: this is intended for students who are interested in a law career
artificial intelligence, and to mathematically solve software challenges. with a commercial background. Students who want to become an attorney or advocate
after completing this undergraduate degree can apply to do a two-year postgraduate
Both the BBusSc in Computer Science and the BCom in Information Systems and Computer LLB degree in the Faculty of Law.
Science provide students with a combination of computer science and business skills, enabling
graduates to fulfil a variety of roles in industry, across all sectors. Economics and Statistics: this more numerate specialisation combines both economics and
statistics, giving students a deeper understanding of the analysis and presentation of data.
ECONOMICS
www.economics.uct.ac.za/ INFORMATION SYSTEMS
All Economics options give an excellent grounding in the areas of expertise that professional www.sit.uct.ac.za/
economists and managers need, such as formulating economic policy, general economic and The Information Systems discipline investigates how computers and communication
financial analysis and the management of portfolios. The Economics specialisation is designed technologies can be used to address the information needs of modern organisations.
for students who wish to experience a broad fundamental education in Commerce or who Information systems are based on computers and IT infrastructure that assist us in our daily
want to become professional economists. lives. Information systems are around us - throughout organisations and society. People
interact with them daily; when using mobile phone apps, posting messages on social media,
We offer the following Economics options: booking a flight ticket online, or even ordering an Uber. Organisations use information systems
• Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE): this focuses on the special problems, both to deliver better customer service, improve business processes and make better decisions
practical and ethical, raised for developing countries by the globalisation of trade and through sophisticated analysis and visualisation of data.
markets.
• Economics and Statistics: this is oriented towards quantitative economics and statisti- Information Systems professionals play an essential role by optimising new and existing
cal methods, providing students with the skills to analyse and interpret economic and information technologies to design and develop innovative solutions for the benefit of
financial data. organisations and society.The curriculum deals not only with the information technologies
• Economics and Finance: this focuses on financial issues and provides students with the but also imparts students with the skills to analyse user requirements and develop
skills needed to operate in the world of finance. information systems. The Information Systems curriculum allows students to cover this

exciting and expanding field. This specialisation maintains a balance between the technical incorporating statistics and computer science. Graduates use their quantitative skills in
(hardware and software) aspects of information systems and the human side of the discipline. business (optimise business processes), marketing (predict consumer purchasing patterns),
There is a demand for qualified Information Systems professionals. government (use of mobile data to optimise public transport services), medicine (identify
subsets of genes associated with a particular disease), astronomy, ecology, language
FINANCE processing and much more.
www.financeandtax.uct.ac.za/
In Finance, students develop the skills needed to source, allocate and invest funds, MANAGEMENT STUDIES
which are essential for making sound investment decisions that are fundamental to the www.managementstudies.uct.ac.za/
growth and success of any organisation and country. Finance specialists often work in the The specialisation in Management Studies offers students a wide range of choice in subject
investment industry in fields such as asset management, in public or corporate finance areas whilst requiring them to complete the general core courses required of the first three
and the financial sector in general. Graduates are employed in roles such as investment years of the Business Science degree. We believe that the flexibility and academic rigour of
manager, fund manager, investment analyst, corporate treasurer, financial risk specialist, this degree makes it very attractive to students and employers; it enables students to make
and credit analyst. In Commerce, it is also possible to study Finance in combination with the most of their individual strengths and interests.
either Accounting, Economics or Information Systems as core courses. This is ideal for
students who want to specialise in specific areas within the broader financial industry. The degree, offered over a minimum of 3 years, requires students to complete 18
prescribed courses, including a minimum of a full year of mathematics, as well as 9 or
STATISTICAL SCIENCES (ANALYTICS) more courses from a basket of approved electives ranging from Marketing to Politics to
www.stats.uct.ac.za Statistical Sciences to Spanish to Environmental and Geographical sciences. Of this total of
Statistical Sciences is the scientific application of mathematical principles to the collection, 27 courses, 7 are required to be at a 3rd year level, so students will liaise with an advisor
analysis, and presentation of data. Analytics/data science is a multidisciplinary field to plan their curriculum.
Students can study Organisational Psychology in Commerce or Humanities. In both faculties,
students study the same Organisational Psychology courses. In Commerce, students register
for the four-year BBusSc in Organisational Psychology, including business and management
courses. In Humanities, students register for a BSocSc or a BA with a major in Organisational
Psychology and a second Humanities major.
ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN ACTUARIAL SCIENCE
Candidates should have a first-class degree in Mathematical Statistics from a recognised

university, with at least two years of Mathematics. Candidates with excellent grades in degrees
with related subjects may also be considered, but it is essential that candidates have a solid
grounding in Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics (up to HEQSF Level 6).
OVERVIEW OF REQUIREMENTS
The selection instruments we use for Commerce are:

• Secondary school-leaving academic results
• Performance in the National Benchmark Test (NBT) in Academic and Quantitative Literacy
(AQL). The NBT Mathematics (MAT) is not required for admission to the Commerce Faculty.
• Performance (in the secondary school-leaving examinations) in Mathematics and English.
CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION TO A COMMERCE DEGREE VIA MAINSTREAM OR

MARKETING STUDIES ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT DEGREES
www.marketingstudies.uct.ac.za/
Marketing is concerned with creating the revenue streams crucial to the success of businesses, MAINSTREAM
non-governmental organisations and public sector enterprises. Marketers are adept at Applicants who are made an offer of admission to the faculty are entitled to register for
identifying and serving customers’ needs, managing communications in a digital enabled ANY specialisation in the Faculty for which they meet the entrance criteria. Thus, if we
workplace and ensuring positive customer experience. have made an offer for a BCom PPE and the final NSC results meet the entrance criteria for
BBusSc Actuarial Science, applicants will be eligible to register for BBusSc Actuarial Science
Specialists work in a wide variety of marketing-related roles across industries, including should they desire to do so.
product manager, brand manager, social media marketing manager, market researcher,
marketing representative, sales representative, business analyst, customer relationship ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT (PLACES ARE LIMITED BY CAPACITY)
manager, advertising and public relations manager. South African applicants with a disadvantage factor greater than 1.0 may apply for
admission to Academic Development (AD) programmes. We may also offer places on
AD specialisations to applicants not meeting the admission requirements for mainstream
ORGANISATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY
programmes, whose NBT results indicate potential.
www.organisationalpsychology.uct.ac.za/
Organisational Psychology (also known as Industrial Psychology) deals with individual and group
behaviour in organisations and the management of people in the workplace. Practitioners
work in various areas ranging from change management, employee relations, learning and
development to human resources management - across diverse sectors: corporate business,
government, NGOs, and management consultancies.

NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE (NSC) ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS BACHELOR OF BUSINESS SCIENCE AND BACHELOR OF COMMERCE
ONLY Computer Science and Analytics Specialisation
The guidelines that follow do not guarantee admission. Study offers are limited for reasons of
capacity. Satisfying the minimum subject requirements does not ensure an applicant admission. ELIGIBLE BAND ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
* South African applicants and permanent residents in redress categories may apply for admission
directly into the Academic Development (AD) qualifications All applicants Band A Guaranteed admission
FPS FPS of 480 or above.
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS SCIENCE AND BACHELOR OF COMMERCE NBT scores of Upper Intermediate for AL & QL
Mathematics 70%
All specialisations except for Actuarial Science and Computer Science English HL 50%
English FAL 60%
ELIGIBLE BAND ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
All applicants Band A Guaranteed admission All applicants Band B Probable admission
FPS FPS of 480 or above. WPS WPS of 470 or above.
NBT scores of Upper Intermediate for AL & QL NBT scores of Upper Intermediate for AL & QL
Mathematics 60% Mathematics 70%
English HL 50% English HL 50%
English FAL 60% English FAL 60%
All applicants Band B Probable admission Minimum required for possible admission
WPS WPS of 470 or above. FPS of 435.
NBT scores of Upper Intermediate for AL & QL NBT scores of Upper Intermediate for AL & QL
Mathematics 60% Mathematics 70%
English HL 50% English HL 50%
English FAL 60% English FAL 60%
Minimum required for possible admission
FPS of 435 or above.
Only SA Band C Possible admission into Education
NBT scores of Upper Intermediate for AL & QL
applicants FPS Development Unit only
Mathematics 60%
in targeted redress FPS of 430 to 434.
English HL 50%
categories with NBT scores of Upper Intermediate for AL & QL
English FAL 60%
a disadvantage Mathematics 70%
Only SA Band C Possible admission into Education factor greater English HL 50%
applicants FPS Development Unit only than 1 English FAL 60%
categories with NBT scores of Upper Intermediate for AL & QL
a disadvantage Mathematics 60%
factor greater English HL 50%
than 1 English FAL 60%
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS SCIENCE AND BACHELOR OF COMMERCE points for Mathematics and English. Each subject can only be counted once at A-Level or
ONLY Actuarial Science and Quantitative Finance Qualification and Stream AS-Level or IGCSE.
ELIGIBLE BAND ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Only National Senior Certificate equivalent subjects will be considered.
All applicants Band A Guaranteed admission If English is taken as a 2nd Language, then you must have another language as a 1st Language
FPS FPS of 500 or above. in order to be considered further. English Literature is not accepted.
NBT scores of Upper Intermediate for AL & QL
Mathematics 80% For NSSC applicants:
English HL 60% A minimum of 4 NSSC higher level subjects must be scored and the best of relevant ordinary
English FAL 80% (but require Proficient for AL & QL NBT’s) level subjects to have a total of 6 subjects. Each subject may only be counted once at higher
All applicants Band B Probable admission or ordinary level. Only Grades 1, 2 or 3 are acceptable for higher level and Grades A, B or C
WPS WPS of 525 or above. for ordinary level. Points are doubled for Mathematics and English. If English is taken as a 2nd
NBT scores of Upper Intermediate for AL & QL Language, then you must have another language as a 1st Language in order to be considered
Mathematics 80% further. English Literature is not accepted.
English HL 60%
English FAL 80% (but require Proficient for AL & QL NBT’s) For IB Diploma applicants:
An applicant must hold the IB Diploma (not the certificate) and satisfy the following minimum
Only SA Band C Possible admission into Education
requirements:
applicants FPS Development Unit only
• at least 3 Higher Level (HL) subjects plus 3 Standard Level (SL) subjects
categories with NBT scores of Upper Intermediate for AL & QL • Points are doubled for Mathematics and English
a disadvantage Mathematics 80% • English Literature is accepted
factor greater English HL 60% All streams other than Actuarial Science and Quantitative Finance
than 1 English FAL 80% (but require Proficient for AL & QL NBT’s) • At least Grade 5 at HL or at least Grade 6 SL Mathematics/Maths Method
• Note Mathematical Studies or Maths Main are not accepted
• English at Grade 3 at HL or Grade 5 at SL
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL-LEAVING CERTIFICATES • English Literature is accepted
The following information is a GUIDELINE for applicants who have successfully completed ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN ACTUARIAL SCIENCE
international secondary school-leaving qualifications and wish to study further at UCT. To
be considered for admission, applicants must qualify for matriculation exemption from the Candidates should have a first-class degree in Mathematical Statistics from a recognised university,
Matriculation Board and meet certain minimum Faculty entry requirements. Please note that the with at least two years of Mathematics. Candidates with excellent results in degrees in related
subjects and points score where specified below are the minimum entrance requirements and subjects may also be considered, but it is essential that candidates have a solid grounding in
do not guarantee admission. Each applicant will be assessed individually. Unless otherwise stated Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics (up to HEQSF Level 6).
under the language proficiency, all applicants must meet the language requirement as per the
UCT language policy. TRANSFERRING APPLICANTS
CAMBRIDGE ASSESSMENT INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION (OR EQUIVALENT), NAMIBIA Applicants wishing to transfer to the Commerce Faculty (both from within UCT and outside of
SENIOR SECONDARY CERTIFICATE. (NSSC), INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE UCT) will be considered having regard to:
DIPLOMA AND ZIMSEC APPLICANTS • Meeting the minimum secondary school subject requirements for Commerce
• Meeting the minimum points requirement used for entry to Commerce
For CAIE (or equivalent) applicants: • Only applicants who have not yet graduated are required to write the National Benchmark
Combine at least: three A-Levels plus three subjects which may be IGCSE or AS-Level OR four Test results
AS-Levels plus two IGCSEs OR three AS-Levels plus one A-Level and two IGCSEs. Double your

• Post School academic record:
IGCSE, AS-LEVEL, A-LEVEL, NSSC AND IB DIPLOMA APPLICANTS
- It is unlikely that students who have failed one or more courses will be
accepted and/or who have an overall percentage below 60
- Particular attention will be given to courses relevant to the Commerce DEGREE WITH PLANS GUARANTEED MINIMUM SUBJECT REQUIREMENTS
Faculty and to the proposed stream(s) ADMISSION MATHEMATICS ENGLISH
Entrance examinations may be required to continue in certain disciplines. Please refer to the
Commerce website or contact the Faculty Office. Bachelor of Business Science 53 A-level E or
specialising in: A-level C or
AS-level D or
Computer Science AS-level B
IGCSE B
ADDITIONAL ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR PROCEEDING TO SENIOR YEARS Economics
IN STREAMS CONTAINING LAW Economics with Law
Students hoping to take a law by commerce program may only proceed to the Finance
law pvl 1000-level courses if they have received confirmation that they have Finance with Accounting 53 NSSC Grade 1 NSSC Grade 3
been allocated a place on those courses. Information Systems
Marketing
Organisational Psychology
The number of places available on the PVL 1000-level courses is limited and varies from year Analytics
to year. Places are allocated on a competitive basis to students with the highest aggregates IB Diploma with
and in accordance with the Law Faculty’s redress enrolment targets. Bachelor of Commerce specialising in: Grade 5
Financial Accounting (General/Chartered) IB Diploma with
Higher Level or
Accounting with Law Grade 3
Grade 6
To be eligible for consideration for a possible (but not guaranteed) Economics with Law Higher Level or
Standard Level
place on the PVL 1000-level courses, students must have Economics with Finance 53 Grade 5
completed and passed all courses in the prescribed Economics & Statistics Standard Level
NOTE
curriculum prior to the year of including the pvl Information Systems Mathematical
Information Systems & Computer Science (English Literature
1000-level courses at first attempt and obtained an Studies or Maths
Information Systems & Finance is accepted.)
Main are not
aggregate of at least 63% for all such courses. Management Studies accepted.
Results in supplementary examinations are not Philosophy Politics & Economics
included when calculating the aggregate but
results of deferred examinations are included.
60 A-Level A
NOTE: the 63% aggregate is the A-level C or
56 AS-level B or
minimum requirement for students to (without A-level AS-Level A IGCSE A
be eligible for consideration for a place subjects)
on the law PVL 1000-level courses. It BBusSc/BCom specialising in:
does not guarantee a place. Given the Actuarial Science 60 NSSC Grade 1 NSSC Grade 2
large number of students who apply
to take those courses and the fact that Quantitative Finance IB Diploma
Grade 5
places are limited and are offered on IB Diploma Higher Level
a competitive basis to students with 60 Grade 7 or Grade 7
the highest aggregates, it is likely that Higher Level Standard Level
a student will require an aggregate well
above 63% in order to actually receive (English Literature
is accepted.)
a place.
APPLICANTS HOLDING SAT RESULTS
SAT I SAT I score of 1050 or more with sub minima of 500 for both
the Verbal and Mathematics scores; or
SAT II score of 1050 or more for English and one of Physics or

SAT II Chemistry with sub minimum of 500 for either the English or
the Physics or the Chemistry scores
ABITUR
Applicants’ performance on the Abitur is assessed using the following
points table:
Umrechnungstabelle/conversion table (grades to percentages)

• At least a ‘GUT’ for Mathematics and English
POINT RANGE % RANGE
15 100-95
14 sehr gut 94-90
13 89-85
12 84-80
11 gut 79-75
10 74-70
9 69-65
8 befriedigend 64-60
7 59-55
6 54-50
5 ausreichend 49-45
4 44-40
FACULTY OF ABOUT THE FACULTY
The Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment enjoys an outstanding reputation for
ENGINEERING & THE its high quality graduates. Not only are we proud to be increasing the number of black
engineers and built environment specialists, but we are also proud to record increasing
numbers of female students who are choosing to pursue careers in engineering. Researchers
BUILT ENVIRONMENT in Engineering & the Built Environment are regularly commissioned by industry to conduct
research and through these partnerships the Faculty earns significant funding for UCT.
The Faculty enjoys an excellent international reputation for its work in a number of areas. CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
For example, it has taken on the research challenges of environment-friendly technologies Chemical Engineering represents a synthesis of chemistry, physics and mathematics applied
and has won international status for its multi-disciplinary research into areas such as minerals to real problems which affect our everyday lives. We have reached a point where society
processing and energy. must contend with fundamental changes in the availability of some of the most important
resources on this planet: energy, food, essential minerals and the global environment.
WHAT WE OFFER
Technological solutions for many of these problems fall within the domain of the
ARCHITECTURAL STUDIES chemical engineer. To become a chemical engineer takes four years of academic study
A general, design-based foundational degree, the Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS) complemented by exposure to the process industries. Learn more about the programme at
focuses on the design of the built environment and architectural design. This degree equips www.chemeng.uct.ac.za/
students with the ability to solve design problems imaginatively, to think rationally and to
exercise appropriate judgement within the discipline of architecture. In particular, it aims CIVIL ENGINEERING
to develop the capacity to design appropriately within the built and natural environment. The civil engineer today may be a technically-oriented designer, a public-minded planner of
The three-year BAS degree provides the grounding for application into the BAS Honours services which benefit entire communities, a protector of public health and the environment,
that articulates into the Master of Architecture (professional). The BAS degree further a practical leader of construction teams or creator of organisations and systems that provide
makes application possible for entry into other professional postgraduate programmes in work and serve communities. The BSc(Eng) in Civil Engineering includes courses in the
the school, including landscape architecture, urban design, city and regional planning, and sciences, mathematics, computing, materials, structures, geology, geotechnics, geographical
conservation of the built environment, and many postgraduate programmes in other faculties. information systems, water treatment and supply, wastewater disposal and treatment,
Graduates of the BAS degree may register with SACAP, the South African Council for the hydraulics, environmental evaluation, surveying, transportation, urban development, design,
Architectural Profession, as a Candidate Architectural Technologist. Graduates who further construction, management and communications fields. The final year ends with a five-week
pursue architectural studies may register as Candidate Senior Architectural Technologist and large-scale design project and a nine- week individual research project. Visit www.civil.uct.ac.za
Candidate Architect respectively for the BAS Honours
and the Master of Architecture (professional). CONSTRUCTION STUDIES & PROPERTY STUDIES
All applicants for the BAS degree must The Department of Construction Economics and Management offers two three-year
complete a portfolio of prescribed undergraduate degrees: BSc in Construction Studies and BSc in Property Studies; and three
creative exercises. Find out more one-year Honours degrees: Quantity Surveying, Construction Management and Property
at www.apg.uct.ac.za Studies. The BSc in Property Studies will give you a head start in a challenging and rewarding
career in the property industry. Besides acquiring a broad knowledge of finance, macro

and micro- economics, property law, and appropriate communication and computer skills, you ELECTRICAL & COMPUTER ENGINEERING
will develop skills in the field of property development. Electrical & Computer Engineering combines Electrical Engineering and Computer Science to
equip graduates with a thorough understanding of the design of special-purpose computers
The BSc in Construction Studies will enable you to prepare tenders and manage construction and computer-based systems. This degree integrates concepts of the analysis, design and
contracts, estimate costs and undertake financial management of construction projects, application of computing, information acquisition and processing systems in various fields.
manage the construction of buildings and related infrastructure, manage human resources, Examples are in the areas of communications, high performance scientific computing, signal
evaluate property investments and communicate spatial concepts, financial issues and other processing and electronic control systems. Find out more at www.ee.uct.ac.za
data. Visit the website of the Department of Construction Economics and Management at
www.cons.uct.ac.za GEOMATICS
Geomatics refers to the creation, representation, analysis, management, retrieval and modelling
ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING of spatial information which represents the earth’s physical features, the built environment
Electrical Engineering covers a wide and diverse range of activities and industries including and other spatially defined objects. The principal disciplines associated with geomatics include
computing, telecommunications, electronic circuits, power and energy. The diverse surveying and mapping, the mapping sciences, land management, geographic information
requirements of industry and the different interests of students can be accommodated through systems and science, environmental visualisation, geodesy, photogrammetry, remote sensing
the selection of specialisation courses in the final year of study. The Electrical Engineering and surveying. Geomatics is a professional career for individuals who have an aptitude for
degree curriculum at UCT has been designed to be flexible. Electrical engineers can choose mathematics and applied sciences.
to follow a high technology career in research and development, or to follow a career in
operations and maintenance. Find out more at www.ee.uct.ac.za The School of Architecture, Planning and Geomatics offers a four-year BSc in Geomatics which
is recognised by the South African Geomatics Council. Graduates may choose to register as a
MECHATRONICS professional surveyor after completing a period of articles. A career in geomatics offers an exciting
Mechatronics is an interdisciplinary branch of engineering which combines fundamental study variety of professional work possibilities and is recognised world-wide. For more information
in mechanical engineering with light-current electrical engineering. As a mechatronics student about geomatics, the degrees we offer, and how to apply, please visit www.geomatics.uct.ac.za
at UCT, you will study a specialisation in electrical and electronic engineering, combined with
a grounding in mechanical engineering. The mechatronics engineer in industry may require MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
expertise across a broad range of engineering disciplines and will be especially well suited Mechanical Engineering involves understanding and harnessing forces and energy in machines
to a career in light manufacturing, robotics, automation and process control. Discover more for the benefit of society. Whether the machine is a space shuttle, steam turbine, a motor car
information about Mechatronics at www.mechatronics.uct.ac.za or a robot-controlled production line, a mechanical engineer would be involved in the design,
manufacture and utilisation of such machines.
The BSc (Eng) in Mechanical Engineering allows graduate employment opportunities in a Honours degrees in Property Studies, Quantity Surveying and Construction Management.
wide spectrum of engineering disciplines, as well as providing the foundation for a career in The South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession accredits the BSc Honours
specialist fields such as aeronautical engineering, marine and biomedical engineering. Visit degree in Quantity Surveying. The South African Council for the Project and Construction
www.mecheng.uct.ac.za for more information. Management Professions (SACPCMP) accredits the BSc Construction Studies and BSc Honours
in Construction Management.
MECHANICAL & MECHATRONIC ENGINEERING
The Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering degree combines fundamental mechanical The BSc in Geomatics is accredited by the South African Geomatics Council.
engineering disciplines with mechatronic engineering skills, such as embedded systems,
robotics, and industrial automation. This broad skill set is effective in applications that involve ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT IN ENGINEERING & THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
complex electro-mechanical systems — where mechanical systems are deeply integrated
with electronics. The resulting graduate is able to analyse, design, and implement intricate The Academic Support Programme for Engineering in Cape Town (ASPECT) provides
mechatronic systems, and is well placed for careers in a wide range of such industries, namely alternative courses with extra support in mathematics and physics for the first year and
automation, robotics, and manufacturing. Visit www.mecheng.uct.ac.za for more information. a half of the extended degree programmes in the engineering departments. All students
admitted to an engineering qualification at UCT currently start on a curriculum based on a
ACCREDITATION OF DEGREES 4-year qualification.
The BSc (Eng) degrees in Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Electrical & Computer, Mechanical & The first 5 weeks are used to identify students who will benefit from changing to a 5-year
Mechatronic, Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronics are accepted by the Engineering Council extended qualification. Those students are encouraged to make the change in April, by
of South Africa (ECSA) as fulfilling the academic requirements for registration as a professional reducing their ‘load’ – the number of credits or courses for which they are registered.
engineer. The degrees are internationally recognised in terms of the Washington Accord.
The reduction in the number of courses allows them more time to concentrate on the
The BSc in Construction Studies and the BSc Honours in Quantity Surveying and in Construction challenging transitions that mathematics and physics demand. Students in the extended
Management are accredited by the South African Council for the Quantity Surveying qualification enjoy smaller classes, more contact time for mathematics and physics,
Profession (SACQSP) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). The BSc Honours easy access to the dedicated lecturers of these courses and a supportive community
in Construction Management is also accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). environment. Students may also choose to join the extended qualification if they want
more time and support to build a better foundation in mathematics and physics.
The BSc Honours in Property Studies is accredited by the SA Council for the Property Valuers
Profession (SACPVP). The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) accredits the BSc

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLICANTS HOLDING THE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CONSTRUCTION STUDIES
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE Minimum requirements:
390 FPS; 65% for NSC Mathematics, 55% for NSC Physical Sciences.
NOTE: Maths Literacy or Technical Maths cannot be substituted for Maths, and Technical
Science cannot be substituted for Physical Science.
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ENGINEERING IN CIVIL ENGINEERING
Minimum requirements: Guaranteed admission
Band A
420 FPS; 80% for NSC Mathematics, 70% for NSC Physical Sciences. All applicants 450 FPS or above
FPS
≥ 65% for Mathematics & ≥ 60% for Physical Sciences
ELIGIBLE BAND ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Probable admission

Band B
All applicants 420 WPS or above
WPS
Guaranteed admission ≥ 65% for Mathematics & ≥ 55% for Physical Sciences
Band A 500 FPS or above
All applicants Only SA applicants Possible admission
FPS ≥ 80% for Mathematics & ≥ 70% for Physical Sciences Band C
in targeted redress 390 FPS or above
FPS
categories ≥ 65% for Mathematics & ≥ 55% for Physical Sciences
Probable admission
Band B 480 WPS or above
All applicants
WPS ≥ 80% for Mathematics & ≥ 70% for Physical Sciences
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PROPERTY STUDIES
Possible admission Minimum requirements:
Only SA applicants
Band C 420 FPS or above 390 FPS; 65% for NSC Mathematics.
in targeted redress
FPS ≥ 80% for Mathematics & ≥ 70% for Physical Sciences
categories
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ENGINEERING IN ELECTRICAL, ELECTRICAL Guaranteed admission

Band A
AND COMPUTER ENGINEERING AND MECHATRONICS All applicants
FPS
450 FPS or above
Minimum requirements: ≥ 65% for Mathematics
Probable admission
Band B
WPS
ELIGIBLE BAND ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS ≥ 65% for Mathematics
Guaranteed admission
Band A Possible admission
All applicants 500 FPS or above Only SA
FPS 390 FPS or above
≥ 80% for Mathematics & ≥ 70% for Physical Sciences applicants in Band C
targeted redress FPS ≥ 65% for
Probable admission categories Mathematics
Band B
WPS
Only SA applicants Possible admission

Band C
in targeted redress 420 FPS or above
FPS
categories ≥ 80% for Mathematics & ≥ 70% for Physical Sciences
BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURAL STUDIES BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ENGINEERING IN MECHANICAL, AND
Minimum requirements: MECHANICAL & MECHATRONIC ENGINEERING
348 FPS; 50% for NSC Mathematics, 50% Architecture Portfolio Score. Minimum requirements:
Band A 450 FPS or above Guaranteed admission
All applicants Band A
FPS ≥ 50% for Mathematics & ≥ 50% for English All applicants 500 FPS or above
Architecture Portfolio Score of 75% or above FPS
Probable admission
Probable admission
Band B 408 WPS or above Band B
All applicants All applicants 480 WPS or above
WPS ≥ 50% for Mathematics & ≥ 50% for English WPS
Architecture Portfolio Score of 68% or above
Possible admission Only SA applicants Possible admission

Only SA applicants Band C
Band C 348 FPS or above in targeted redress 420 FPS or above
in targeted redress FPS
FPS ≥ 50% for Mathematics & ≥ 50% for English categories ≥ 80% for Mathematics & ≥ 75% for Physical Sciences
categories
Architecture Portfolio Score of 50% or above
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN GEOMATICS

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ENGINEERING IN CHEMICAL ENGINEERING Minimum requirements:
Minimum requirements: 390 FPS; 65% for NSC Mathematics, 60% for NSC Physical Sciences.
Guaranteed admission Band A
Band A All applicants 450 FPS or above
All applicants 500 FPS or above FPS
FPS ≥ 75% for Mathematics & ≥ 70% for Physical Sciences
Probable admission Probable admission

Band B Band B
All applicants 480 WPS or above All applicants 420 WPS or above
WPS WPS
≥ 80% for Mathematics & ≥ 70% for Physical Sciences ≥ 65% for Mathematics & ≥ 60% for Physical Sciences
Only SA applicants Possible admission Only SA applicants Possible admission

Band C Band C
in targeted redress 420 FPS or above in targeted redress 390 FPS or above
FPS FPS
categories ≥ 80% for Mathematics & ≥ 70% for Physical Sciences categories ≥ 65% for Mathematics & ≥ 60% for Physical Sciences

ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR APPLICANTS WITH NON-SOUTH AFRICAN A-Level
SCHOOL-LEAVING CERTIFICATES • at least two D symbols, one of which must be in Mathematics; and
• at least C at IGCSE level for Physical Science/Physics or Chemistry
The table below is a guide for applicants with Cambridge Assessment International Education AS-Level
(CAIE) and similar subjects, the Namibian Senior Secondary Certificate (NSSC), and the International • at least D for Mathematics and at least B in three other AS-Level
Baccalaurate Diploma (IB). subjects and
Bachelor • at least C at IGCSE level for Physical Science/Physics or Chemistry
NOTES: of Science
Namibian Senior Secondary Certificate (NSSC)
• Performance in non-South African secondary school-leaving examinations is not converted in Construction
Level 2 passes in at least four higher level subjects including Mathematics
to points for applications to programmes in this faculty. Studies and Physical Science
• The subject requirements below are minimum requirements only, and do not guarantee
admission. Additional subjects may be required to meet matriculation exemption requirements. International Baccalaureate (IB)
• A pass in English Language is required at A-level, AS-level, IGCSE level, Baccalaureate or other Full IB Diploma with at least a Grade 5 pass at standard level or a Grade
equivalent level. 4 pass at higher level for each of the subjects Mathematics and Physics or
• At IGSCE Level English must be taken as a first language, or another first language must be Chemistry
offered. Note: Mathematical Studies is not acceptable
• Applicants with only IGCSE level subjects are not eligible for admission.
• Applicants must submit at least IGCSE level (or the equivalent) results and predicted final A-Level
school-leaving results to be considered for an early conditional offer. • at least two D symbols at A-Level, one of which must be in
Mathematics
AS-Level
All applicants must submit a written motivation and a portfolio of creative • at least D for Mathematics and at least B in three other AS-Level
work. Details are provided in the Directions for Undergraduate Applicants. subjects
Bachelor
A-Level of Science
• at least D in two A-Level subjects and at least C at IGCSE level in Property
Level 2 passes in at least four higher level subjects including Mathematics
for Mathematics or Physical Science Studies
AS-Level International Baccalaureate (IB)
• at least C in four AS-Level subjects and at least C at IGCSE level for Full IB Diploma with at least a Grade 5 pass at standard level or a Grade
Bachelor of Mathematics or Physical Science 4 pass at higher level for each of the subjects Mathematics and Physics or
Architectural Chemistry
Studies
At least a Grade 3 pass at Higher level or a grade C pass at Ordinary level Note: Mathematical Studies is not acceptable
for Mathematics or Physical Science
International Baccalaureate (IB)

Full IB Diploma with at least Grade 4 for Mathematics or Physical Science at
standard level.

A-Level A-Level
• at least C in IGCSE level English; and • at least C for English at IGCSE level and
• at least B in Mathematics at A-level AND either B in A-level Chemistry • at least C for Mathematics at A-Level and C for Physics at A-Level
and a pass with at least B in IGCSE level Physics; or AS-Level
• B in A-Level Physics and a pass with at least B in IGSCE Chemistry • at least C for IGCSE level English ;and
AS-Level
Bachelor • at least B for Maths at AS-Level and C for Physics at AS-Level plus two
• at least C for IGCSE level English; and
of Science other AS-Level subjects with B symbols
• at least A for Mathematics and Physical Science and two B symbols at
in Engineering AS-Level; or Bachelor
in Chemical, • without Physical Science: at least A for Mathematics; and A for either of Science Namibian Senior Secondary Certificate (NSSC)
Civil, Physics or Chemistry; and B for the other (Physics or Chemistry), plus in Geomatics At least four higher level subjects with Level 1 passes in Mathematics and
Mechanical, one other B symbol Physical Science
and
Mechanical & Namibian Senior Secondary Certificate (NSSC) International Baccalaureate (IB)
Mechatronic At least four higher level subjects with Level 1 passes in Mathematics and Full IB Diploma with at least a Grade 6 pass at standard level or a Grade 5
Engineering Physical Science pass at higher level for each of the subjects Mathematics and Physics
International Baccalaureate (IB) Note: Mathematical Studies is not acceptable

Full IB Diploma with a Grade 6 pass at standard level or a Grade 5 pass at
higher level for each of the subjects Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry
Note: Mathematical Studies is not acceptable OTHER NON-SOUTH AFRICAN EXAMINATIONS
A-Level Secondary school-leaving subjects MUST include Mathematics.

• at least C in IGCSE level English; and Applicants from some countries (e.g. Angola and DRC)
• at least B for Mathematics at A-Level AND B for A-Level Physics
AS-Level must have completed the first year of a four-year
Bachelor • at least C for IGCSE level English; and degree programme at a university in their country
of Science • A for two AS-Level subjects including Mathematics and Physical of origin before applying to UCT.
in Engineering Science/Physics
in Electrical • plus two B symbols at AS-Level for two other subjects Applicants with only IGCSE subjects need
Engineering, to complete the first year of a four-year
Electrical and Namibian Senior Secondary Certificate (NSSC) degree programme at a university
Computer At least four higher level subjects with Level 1 passes in Mathematics and in their country of origin, before
Engineering, Physical Science applying to the UCT.
and
Mechatronics International Baccalaureate (IB) Applications will be assessed on
Full IB Diploma with at least a Grade 6 pass at standard level or a Grade 5 an individual basis. Meeting the
pass at higher level for each of the subjects Mathematics and Physics above minimum requirements
Note: Mathematical Studies is not acceptable does not guarantee admission.
Admission may be limited due
to available capacity.
ABOUT THE FACULTY
The Faculty offers undergraduate degrees in Medicine,

Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Audiology, and Speech-
Language Pathology. A Higher Certificate in Disability Studies and
an Advanced Diploma in Cosmetic Formulation Science are also
offered.
All these undergraduate programmes have fixed curricula. The

degree programmes include extensive training at hospitals and
clinics in and around Cape Town and in other relevant community
settings, which may include schools and informal settlements.
WHAT WE OFFER
BACHELOR OF MEDICINE & BACHELOR OF SURGERY

(MBCHB)
The MBChB programme takes six years to complete. After
graduating with an MBChB degree and completing two years’
internship and a year’s community service, you will be allowed
by the Health Professions Council of South Africa to practise as a
medical doctor.
As a medical doctor you may work in a public or private hospital

or in a community clinic, join a doctor’s practice, open your
own practice, or work in a variety of other settings. The MBChB
programme is offered by a range of Departments in the Faculty
of Health Sciences. Visit the various departments’ sites at www.
health.uct.ac.za/
FACULTY OF
HEALTH SCIENCES
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY community centres, hospitals and outpatient clinics. Many physiotherapists work in special
The aim of Occupational Therapy is to help people overcome functional difficulties resulting schools for disabled children or provide rehabilitation programmes in people’s homes for
from health-related problems and to develop their abilities, so that they may be independent them to become as independent as possible at home and in their communities.
and effective at home, at work and during their leisure time. This is a four-year degree
programme. You may also choose to work and travel with sports teams to treat injuries and advise on the
fitness of members of the teams and on proper training to prevent common injuries associated
When you obtain the BSc (Occupational Therapy) degree, and after completing a year’s with a particular sport.
community service, you will be allowed by the Health Professions Council of South Africa to
practise as an occupational therapist. You will work with people of all ages whose lives have BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY
been complicated by sickness, trauma and developmental delay, and who are struggling to Speech Language Therapists assess and treat people who have communication disorders,
cope with and adapt to their circumstances or their environment. You may help them in their such as problems with sound production and language learning, voice disorders, swallowing
homes or in their places of work, as well as in clinics, schools and hospitals, or you may work disorders and stuttering. You may also treat people who have disorders of speech and
in a private practice. language after they have suffered strokes or because they have cerebral palsy.
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PHYSIOTHERAPY The degree programme takes four years to complete and is followed by a year of community
Physiotherapy aims to help people in the community to lead a healthy lifestyle, to prevent service. On completion of your community service, you will be allowed by the Health
illness or injury for those at risk, and to treat people who have been disabled or injured. Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) to practise as a
Physiotherapy makes use of physiologically-based movement techniques, massage, speech-language therapist.
electrotherapy and other physical means to prevent and treat injury and disease. This is a
four-year degree programme. As a speech-language therapist you may
work at community centres, hospitals
When you obtain the BSc (Physiotherapy) degree, and after you have completed a and outpatient clinics or open your
year’s community service, you will be allowed by the Health Professions Council own practice. Many speech
of South Africa to practise as a physiotherapist. You will help people of all therapists also work in schools
ages who suffer from (for example) breathing and chest problems, cerebral or provide rehabilitation
palsy, strokes, fractured bones, stiff joints, sports injuries and painful programmes in people’s
necks and backs. homes.
As a physiotherapist you may open your own practice, or work at

The Higher Certificate includes theoretical and practical work-integrated learning components.
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AUDIOLOGY The curriculum for the Higher Certificate extends over one year of full-time study.
Audiologists assess people’s hearing, fit hearing aids, manage speech and language problems of
people who are hard of hearing or deaf, and deal with noise measurement and control. The Higher Certificate programme is offered only if there is a sufficient number of
applicants. Visit www.dhrs.uct.ac.za/dhrs/divisions/disability/undergraduate/requirements
The degree programme takes four years to complete and is followed by a year of community
service. On completion of your community service, you will be allowed by the Health Professions ADMISSION TO PROGRAMMES IN THE FACULTY
Council of South Africa (HPCSA) to practise as an audiologist.
The Faculty of Heath Sciences receives an exceptionally high volume of applications for a limited
As an audiologist you may work at schools,community centres, hospitals and outpatient clinics number of places. Most of the applications are of very high standard and thus the competition
or open your own practice. for places is significant. Meeting the minimum criteria is no guarantee for acceptance to study
in your chosen programme.
HIGHER CERTIFICATE IN DISABILITY PRACTICE
The Higher Certificate in Disability Practice aims to train home-based carers and school-leavers NUMBER OF PLACES AVAILABLE IN EACH PROGRAMME
who have an interest in pursuing a career in the field of community-based disability practice. Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB): 240
Students learn foundational skills for disability prevention and care. The qualification provides Bachelor of Science in Audiology: 37
students with the basic knowledge, cognitive and conceptual tools and practical techniques for Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy: 70
application in the field of disability-inclusive community development. Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy: 70
Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology: 40
The qualification signifies that the student has attained a basic level of higher educational Higher Certificate in Disability Practice: 30
knowledge and appropriate competencies in their role as community development workers. Advanced Diploma in Cosmetic Formulation Science 10
offered in some states in the USA).
ELIGIBILITY FOR CONSIDERATION FOR DEGREE PROGRAMMES Exceptions may be considered on merit in the case of applicants who have obtained tertiary-
Applicants must: level qualifications.
• have passed certain secondary school-leaving subjects at specific minimum performance levels,
• have obtained a minimum overall Admissions Point Score (APS1); In addition to the above requirements, the following guidelines apply, with exceptions
• have obtained minimum performance levels in the National Benchmark Tests: be eligible being considered on individual merit:
for admission to degree studies, or (if you have obtained a non-South African secondary • If you are doing a foundation programme, you must have completed your foundation
school-leaving certificate) have matriculation exemption; programme, unless you would in any event be eligible for consideration based on your NSC
• be a citizen or permanent resident of South Africa or of a Southern African Development or other school-leaving examination results and your results in the NBTs.
Community (SADC) country that does not have a health sciences faculty or whose health • If you are already registered for a similar health sciences programme at another university
sciences faculties do not offer the health sciences programme you wishto study 2 3. and you wish to transfer to UCT you will need to compete for admission to the first year
If you are a South African citizen who has written a non-NSC secondary school-leaving of the relevant programme.
examination, either within South Africa or abroad, you will be eligible for consideration • If you have been refused re-admission by any Faculty at UCT or another tertiary
only if you have written examinations towards a national secondary school-leaving institution you are not generally eligible for consideration.
examination (i.e. where all secondary school-leavers in the country concerned are required
to write the same secondary school-leaving examinations - such as CAIE, IB Diploma, Applicants with Disabilities
GCSE and NSSC examinations) as opposed to examinations at state level (such as those UCT welcomes applications from applicants with special needs. However, there are some
1
Note: The Admissions Point Score (APS) is the total of the percentages of your six school subjects.
2
If you are from a non-SADC country in Africa with an approved Occupational Therapy diploma and have practised as an occupational therapist for more than two years you may be considered on merit, provided that
your NBT scores fall in the Intermediate or Proficient range. We admit a maximum of two applicants in this category annually.
3
The Faculty will consider the immediate family members of permanently appointed UCT staff members who are not South African citizens or permanent residents or eligible SADC applicants, and who have applied
for permanent residency but whose permanent residency has not yet been approved at the time of application, provided they are competitive in the “open competition” category.
disabilities that would prevent someone from completing a particular health sciences
curriculum (for example, someone who is deaf may not be able to hear a heartbeat through a
stethoscope). For this reason, applicants with disabilities are urged to communicate with the Applications are considered on a continual basis from the time that the Faculty receives
Faculty, via UCT’s Disability Service, to establish whether this would apply to them. The Faculty the first NBT results and applicants have uploaded at least one set of provisional school
reserves the right to require an applicant (or an admitted student) to undergo a professional results (Grade11 final or Grade 12 Term 1, Term 2 and Term 3 results) or interim academic
assessment to determine the extent and likely impact of a disability on his or her ability to meet transcript.
the requirements of the curriculum, including such practical training and practice as is required
in the health sciences discipline concerned. UCT reserves the right to withdraw an offer to an CONDITIONAL OFFERS
applicant or cancel the registration of a student who has failed to declare a disability that is
found to be such as to make it impossible for him or her to meet the curriculum requirements In the case of secondary school-leavers, conditional offers are first made to applicants with very
in the health sciences discipline concerned. competitive results. The condition on which early offers are made is that applicants maintain
or improve, in their final examinations, their best level of performance to date, at the time that
THE SELECTION PROCESS the offer was made (Should applicants not meet the conditions in their final examinations, their
conditional offer may be revoked).
The Faculty of Health Sciences Admissions committee will
prioritize first choice applicants during the selection If you are studying at, or completed studies at, another higher education institution, you will
process. Applicants compete in selection categories as be considered on the basis of your secondary school-leaving results and your higher education
follows: results. In addition, transferring applicants may be required to write the National Benchmark
• South African secondary school leavers Tests as indicated (see page 45), and may be asked to submit a letter of motivation. You will
• SADC applicants (international applicants) need to submit an interim academic transcript, certificate of good conduct and your final, year-
• Applicants with tertiary results from UCT end transcript as soon as they are available and no later than 31 December 2023.
or other institutions.
Applicants who do not secure early conditional offers are reconsidered when the final
The Dean may also allocate (within the intake secondary school results are received. The cut-off points for offers may then be dropped until
targets) a small number of discretionary the class is filled.
places, on merit, to (for example) the following
categories of applicants: DEFERRED ADMISSION OR “GAP YEAR”
• Repeat applicants who meet the prescribed Applicants who are offered a place and wish to take a gap year may have their offers deferred
minimum criteria to the following year on request. However, a gap year is understood to be a year in which
• Applicants with disabilities. the applicant does not register for formal tertiary studies. An applicant who defers their offer
44 |
and registers for tertiary studies, at this or another institution, must reapply formally as CRITERIA FOR APPLICANTS FOR DEGREE PROGRAMS WRITING NSC
a transferring undergraduate applicant for admission in the following admission year. EXAMINATIONS
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLICANTS HOLDING THE NATIONAL
SENIOR CERTIFICATE BACHELOR OF MEDICINE AND BACHELOR OF SURGERY – MBCHB
Minimum subject requirements and performance levels to be considered for admission: Mathematics
PLEASE NOTE: All degrees within Health Sciences and Physical Sciences at 70%, English (Home or First Additional Language) at 65%; and 70% for
the next three best subjects excluding Life Orientation. Sub-minimum APS of 450.
• APS = NSC score (score out of 600). The APS is worked out as follows: percentages
of three required subjects plus percentages of next three best subjects excluding Life
ELIGIBLE BANDS ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Orientation.
• NBT = National Benchmark Tests (score out of 300). The results are published in Guaranteed admission
Band A
810 FPS or above
Proficient/Intermediate /Basic ranges. All applicants FPS
Meet minimum subject requirements
• FPS = The Faculty Points Score (FPS) (score out of 900). This consists of the NBT scores of Proficient for AL, QL and Mathematics
percentages of three required subjects plus percentages of next three best subjects
but excluding Life Orientation, plus the NBT score. Probable admission
• WPS = Weighted Points Score (score out of 1080). The WPS is used in Band B only Band B 807 WPS or above
All applicants
WPS Meet minimum subject requirements
and consists of your FPS weighted by your disadvantage factor (see the section on NBT scores of Intermediate or above for AL, QL and Mathematics
the general Admissions Policy for an explanation of the disadvantage factors).
Only SA Possible admission
NATIONAL BENCHMARK TESTS applicants in Band C 644 FPS or above
targeted redress FPS Meet minimum subject requirements
All secondary school leaving applicants must write some or all components of the NBTs, categories NBT scores of Intermediate or above for AL, QL and Mathematics
consisting of the Academic and Quantitative Literacy Test (AQL) and Mathematics Test. NBT
results contribute up to 300 points towards your Faculty Points Score. Applicants applying for
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PHYSIOTHERAPY
admission to MBChB and Physiotherapy need to have NBT results that are in the Intermediate Minimum subject requirements and performance levels to be considered for admission: Mathematics
or Proficient Applicants to Audiology, Speech-Language Pathology Occupational Therapy at 60%, Physical Sciences or Life Sciences at 65%, English (Home or First Additional Language)
who did Mathematical Literacy are advised to not write NBT Mathematics. Their applications at 65%; and 60% for the next three best subjects excluding Life Orientation. Sub-minimum APS
will be considered individually, on merit. of 360.

Applicants to the Higher Certificate in Disability Practice need to write only the Academic
and Quantitative Literacy components of the NBTs. Applicants to the Advanced Diploma Guaranteed admission
Band A 730 FPS or above
in Cosmetic Formulation Science need not write the NBTs All applicants Meet minimum subject requirements
FPS
NBT scores of Intermediate or above for AL, QL and Mathematics
HOW WE CALCULATE YOUR FACULTY POINTS SCORE (FPS) FOR THE
DEGREE PROGRAMMES Band B Probable admission
WPS 797 WPS or above
The following are added if you are an NSC candidate: All applicants Meet minimum subject requirements
• Points (percentage) out of 100 for each of English, Mathematics and Physical NBT scores of Intermediate or above for AL, QL and Mathematics
Sciences;
• Points out of 100 for each of your next three best subjects excluding Life Possible admission
Orientation Only SA 580 FPS or above for redress 1
Band C
applicants in 610 FPS or above for redress 2
• An additional 10 points if you have passed a third official South African language targeted redress FPS 680 FPS or above for redress 3 and 4
at Home or First Additional Language Level categories Meet minimum subject requirements
• Points out of 300 for the National Benchmark Tests. NBT scores of Intermediate or above for AL, QL and Mathematics
• This gives you a total FPS out of 900
• We do not score Advanced Programme Mathematics or Advanced Programme
English since these are not approved NSC subjects.
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AUDIOLOGY
Minimum subject requirements and performance levels to be considered for admission: Minimum subject requirements and performance levels to be considered for admission:
Mathematics at 60% or Mathematical Literacy at 70%, Physical Sciences or Life Sciences at Mathematics at 60% or Mathematical Literacy at 70%, Physical Sciences or Life Sciences at 65%,
65%, English (Home or First Additional Language) at 65% or; and 60% for the next three English (Home or First Additional Language) at 65%; and 60% for the next three best subjects
best subjects excluding Life Orientation. Sub-minimum APS of 340. excluding Life Orientation. Sub-minimum APS of 340.
ELIGIBLE BANDS ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS ELIGIBLE BANDS ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Guaranteed admission Guaranteed admission
730 FPS or above 720 FPS or above
Meet minimum subject requirements Meet minimum subject requirements
All applicants Band A NBT scores of Intermediate or above for AL, QL Band A
All applicants NBT scores of Intermediate or above for AL, QL and
FPS and Mathematics (applicants taking Mathematical Literacy FPS
Mathematics (applicants taking Mathematical Literacy
and have achieved more than 75% are exempted from the and have achieved more than 75% are exempted from
NBT Mathematics Test)* the NBT Mathematics Test)*
Probable admission
782 WPS or above Probable admission
Meet minimum subject requirements 710 WPS or above
All applicants Band B NBT scores of Intermediate or above for AL, QL and Meet minimum subject requirements
Band B
WPS Mathematics (applicants taking Mathematical Literacy and All applicants NBT scores of Intermediate or above for AL, QL and
WPS
have achieved more than 75% are exempted from the NBT Mathematics (applicants taking Mathematical Literacy
Mathematics Test)* and have achieved more than 75% are exempted from
the NBT Mathematics Test)*
Possible admission
565 FPS for redress 1
580 FPS for redress 2 Possible admission
Only SA applicants 670 FPS for redress 3 and 4 550 FPS for redress 1
Band C 565 FPS for redress 2
in targeted redress Meet minimum subject requirements
FPS 610 FPS for redress 3 and 4
categories NBT scores of Intermediate or above for AL, QL and Only SA applicants in Band C
Mathematics (applicants taking Mathematical Literacy and Meet minimum subject requirements
targeted redress categories FPS
have achieved more than 75% are exempted from the NBT NBT scores of Intermediate or above for AL, QL and
Mathematics Test)* Mathematics (applicants taking Mathematical Literacy
and have achieved more than 75% are exempted from
the NBT Mathematics Test)*
Note: * A Mathematics NBT equivalence score will be calculated for Mathematical Literacy
applicants using the following formula: NBT Quantitative Literacy score minus 20 points = NBT
Note: * A Mathematics NBT equivalence score will be calculated for Mathematical Literacy applicants
Mathematics result). using the following formula: NBT Quantitative Literacy score minus 20 points = NBT Mathematics result).

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY
Minimum subject requirements and performance levels to be considered for admission: Mathematics at 60% or Math-
ematical Literacy at 70%, Physical Sciences or Life Sciences at 65%, English (Home or First Additional Language) at
65%; and 60% for the next three best subjects excluding Life Orientation. Sub-minimum APS of 340.

715 FPS or above
Band A Meet minimum subject requirements
All applicants
FPS NBT scores of Intermediate or above for AL, QL and Mathematics
(applicants taking Mathematical Literacy and have achieved more
than 75% are exempted from the NBT Mathematics Test) **
Probable admission
670 WPS or above
Band B Meet minimum subject requirements
All applicants
WPS NBT scores of Intermediate or above for AL, QL and Mathematics
than 75% are exempted from the NBT Mathematics Test)**
CRITERIA FOR APPLICANTS FOR OTHER PROGRAMS WRITING
Possible admission NSC EXAMINATIONS
510 FPS for redress 1
515 FPS for redress 2 Admission criteria for the Higher Certificate in Disability Practice or the
Only SA applicants in Band C 600 FPS for redress 3 and 4 Advanced Diploma in Cosmetic Formulation Science are not expressed in
targeted redress categories FPS Meet minimum subject requirements
NBT scores of Intermediate or above for AL, QL and Mathematics terms of bands. See page 47.
than 75% are exempted from the NBT Mathematics Test)** ELIGIBILITY FOR CONSIDERATION FOR HIGHER
CERTIFICATE IN DISABILITY PRACTICE
Note: Applicants with Mathematical Literacy will be considered on an individual basis. To be eligible for consideration to the Higher Certificate all applicants must:
**Applicants with any NBT result in the Basic range may also be considered on an individual basis. However, applicants • have obtained a National Senior Certificate or an approved HEQSF-level
who take Mathematical Literacy will not be considered if they have any NBT result in the Basic range.
4 (school-leaving) qualification;
• meet the Upper Intermediate to Proficient level in the Academic and
Quantitative Literacy components of the National Benchmark Tests.
ELIGIBILITY FOR CONSIDERATION FOR THE ADVANCED

DIPLOMA IN COSMETIC FORMULATION SCIENCE
To be considered for the programme, students must have obtained:
• a BSc, or equivalent, with Chemistry 3
• or a degree with Biochemistry 3 (students with Biochemistry 3 need to
have at least Chemistry 2 to be eligible for admission)
• or a partially completed/ non-degree with Chemistry 2 and relevant
work experience.
Offers in this program are made subject to availability of space.

CRITERIA FOR APPLICANTS FOR DEGREE PROGRAMS WRITING Advanced (A) Level
Minimum admission score: 36 points plus NBT score of Higher Intermediate.
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL-LEAVING CERTIFICATES
Probable admission score: 44 points or above plus NBT score of Higher Intermediate
or above.
If you take a non-South African secondary school-leaving examination, we will consider your
At least an A symbol in two A level subjects (A level subjects must include
application by: Mathematics or Physics or Chemistry or Biology); plus
• Assessing your academic performance, using the rating tables on page 17 At least an A at AS Level or IGCSE level in Physics or Chemistry or Mathematics or
• Assessing your performance in the National Benchmark Tests; Biology, if these were not taken at A level; plus At least a C in English, which may be
• Comparing your overall performance to that of other applicants at AS or IGCSE level.
Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Level

A table is used to convert non-NSC results to a comparable score, where possible – see Minimum admission score: 36 points plus NBT score of Higher Intermediate.
Admission Points Table for A, AS, IGCSE and IB Diplomas on page 17 of this Prospectus. Please Probable admission score: 44 points or above plus NBT score of Higher Intermediate
note, applicants require six different eligible subjects, the subjects must meet the requirements or above.
for a Matric Exemption and applicants must meet the required NBT performance. BSC At least a C in four AS Level subjects, of which two must be Mathematics, Physics,
PHYSIOTHERAPY or Chemistry (Biology may be substituted for Physics and Chemistry)
At least an A in English, which may be at IGCSE Level. If Mathematics is taken at
In addition, candidates writing A-level, AS-level, IGCSE or IB Diploma examinations must meet
IGCSE Level, a B is also required.
the following minimum admission score requirements, obtained using the scoring examples
in the SCORE CALCULATION TABLE FOR SELECTED NON-SOUTH AFRICAN EXAMINING International Baccalaureate
AUTHORITIES. Minimum admission score: 36 points plus NBT score of Higher Intermediate.
Note 1. The same subject cannot be counted twice. Probable admission score: 44 points or above plus NBT score of Higher Intermediate
or above.
Note 2. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
At least grade 4 in three higher level subjects, two of which must be Mathematics
and/or Chemistry and/or Physics and/or English. (Biology may be substituted for
Physics and Chemistry).
Advanced (A) Level At least grade 4 in the remaining two subjects (Physics or Chemistry or
Minimum admission score: 40 points plus NBT score in the Proficient range Mathematics or English), which may be at standard level. (Biology may be
Probable admission score: 46 points or above plus NBT score in the Proficient range substituted for Physics and Chemistry.)
At least a C symbol in two A Level subjects (including Mathematics PLUS Physics or If Mathematics is at standard level, Physics and Chemistry or Biology must be at
Chemistry) and an A in the remaining subject (Physics or Chemistry) and in English, higher level.
both of which may be at AS or IGCSE Level.
Advanced (A) Level
Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Level Minimum admission score: 36 points plus NBT score of Higher Intermediate.
Minimum admission score: 40 points plus NBT score in the Proficient range Probable admission score: 44 points or above plus NBT score of Higher
Probable admission score: 46 points or above plus NBT score in the Proficient range Intermediate or above.
AS and IGCSE level subject requirements: At least B in four AS level subjects At least a C symbol in two A level subjects (A level subjects must include
(including Mathematics and Physics and Chemistry), and a B symbol in English, Mathematics
MBChB
which may be at IGCSE. or Physics or Chemistry or Biology); plus
BSC At least an A at AS level or IGCSE Level in Physics or Chemistry or Mathematics
International Baccalaureate or Biology, if these were not taken at A level; plus
OCCUPATIONAL
Minimum admission score: 40 points plus NBT score in the Proficient range THERAPY At least a C in English, which may be at AS or IGCSE Level.
Probable admission score: 46 points or above plus NBT score in the Proficient range
Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Level
and/or Chemistry and/or Physics and/or English
Probable admission score: 44 points or above plus NBT score of Higher
Intermediate or above.
At least grade 5 in the remaining two subjects (Physics or Chemistry or Mathematics
or English not taken at higher level), which may be at standard level. Mathematical At least a C in four AS level subjects, of which two must be Mathematics, Physics,
Studies is not acceptable. or Chemistry (Biology may be substituted for Physics and Chemistry)
IB applicants need to be in possession of the IB Diploma, not the Certificate. At least an A in English, which may be at IGCSE level. If Mathematics is taken at
IGCSE Level, a B is required.

International Baccalaureate
Minimum admission score: 36 points plus NBT score of Higher Intermediate. CRITERIA FOR APPLICANTS FOR DEGREE PROGRAMS WHO ARE COMPLETING
Probable admission score: 44 points or above plus NBT score of Higher OR HAVE COMPLETED A DEGREE AT A TERTIARY INSTITUTION
continued...
and/or Chemistry and/or Physics and/or English. (Biology may be substituted for
The Faculty of Heath Sciences receives an exceptionally high volume of applications for
BSC
OCCUPATIONAL Physics and Chemistry). a limited number of tertiary places. Most of the applications are of an exceptionally high
THERAPY At least grade 4 in the remaining two subjects (Physics or Chemistry or standard and thus the competition for places is significant. Meeting the minimum criteria is
Mathematics or English), which may be at standard level. (Biology may be no guarantee for acceptance to study in your chosen programme.
substituted for Physics and Chemistry.)
If Mathematics is at standard level, Physics and Chemistry or Biology must be at ELIGIBILITY FOR PROBABLE ADMISSION
higher level.
Two categories of transferring applicants are considered:

Advanced (A) Level
1. Applicants who are in year one or two of a three-year degree programme &
Probable admission score: 44 points or above plus NBT score of Higher Applicants who are in year one, two or three of a four-year degree programme must:
Intermediate or above. • meet the school subject requirements and minimum performance levels outlined (APS)
At least a C symbol in two A level subjects (A level subjects must include • meet NBTs at intermediate or proficient levels (NBT results remain valid for three years)
Mathematics or Physics or Chemistry or Biology); plus • meet the minimum Band C FPS for that programme
At least an A at AS level or IGCSE Level in Physics or Chemistry or Mathematics or • meet minimum GPA requirements of at least 75% or above for the MBChB programme
Biology, if these were not taken at A level; plus
and 65% or above for Health and Rehabilitation programmes (Physiotherapy,
At least a C in English, which may be at AS or IGCSE Level.
Occupational Therapy, Audiology and Speech Language Pathology).
Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Level • not have failed any courses at tertiary level
Probable admission score: 44 points or above plus NBT score of Higher 2. Applicants who have obtained a qualification or are in final year of study must:
BSC AUDIOLOGY Intermediate or above.
AND BSC • meet the core school subject requirements and minimum performance levels outlined
At least a C in four AS level subjects, of which two must be Mathematics, Physics, • not have failed any courses at tertiary level
SPEECH-
LANGUAGE or Chemistry (Biology may be substituted for Physics and Chemistry)
• meet minimum GPA requirements of at least 75% or above for the MBChB programme
PATHOLOGY At least an A in English, which may be at IGCSE level. If Mathematics is taken at
IGCSE Level, a B is required. and 65% or above for Health and Rehabilitation programmes (Physiotherapy,
Occupational Therapy, Audiology and Speech Language Pathology.
International Baccalaureate
Minimum admission score: 36 points plus NBT score of Higher Intermediate. For any further queries email the faculty admissions office ([email protected])
Probable admission score: 44 points or above plus NBT score of Higher
At least grade 4 in three higher level subjects, two of which must be Mathematics ADMISSION DIRECT TO SECOND YEAR MBCHB OF TERTIARY APPLICANTS
and/or Chemistry and/or Physics and/or English. (Biology may be substituted for MEETING SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
Physics and Chemistry).
At least grade 4 in the remaining two subjects (Physics or Chemistry or A small number of graduates who have completed either an approved undergraduate or
Mathematics or English), which may be at standard level. (Biology may be postgraduate degree, may be offered a place in second year provided
substituted for Physics and Chemistry.)
a) you have received a firm offer
If Mathematics is at standard level, Physics and Chemistry or Biology must be at
higher level. b) there is class capacity and
c) have met the tertiary applicant criteria.
For any further queries email the faculty admissions office ([email protected])
ABOUT THE FACULTY
The Faculty of Humanities is home to more than 6000

undergraduate and postgraduate students. The Faculty is
comprised of 18 academic departments located in three
main clusters:
• The Arts: the languages, history, linguistics, film and
media studies, and art history and discourse of art
• The Social Sciences: African studies, anthropology,
gender studies, sociology, the study of religions, social
work and social development, politics, economics,
psychology, philosophy, and library and information
studies
• The Performing and Creative Arts: fine art, music,
dance and theatre.
Each of our academic departments offers a wide selection

of courses and disciplines, giving students more freedom
of choice in tailoring their academic experience. The
Faculty of Humanities attracts students and academics
from across the globe and we are the most popular
destination for Semester Study Abroad students. This
means that our students are exposed to a rich diversity of
knowledge, experience and best practice.
Did you know that a Humanities qualification prepares

you for a multitude of career paths in the public sector,
the corporate workplace and in academia? Our graduates
are sought-after in the local and international job markets.
This is because Humanities academic courses foster

flexibility, imagination, social sensitivity, language
competence, critical thinking, analytical reasoning and the
capacity to solve complex societal problems.
FACULTY
OF HUMANITIES
Humanities undergraduate qualifications have vocational outcomes, applied and policy content and lead to
advanced postgraduate study as well as to a variety of exciting careers.
WHAT WE OFFER
HUMANITIES UNDERGRADUATE QUALIFICATIONS
The Faculty of Humanities offers undergraduate students a wide variety of academic courses, diploma,
advanced diploma, degree, advanced certificate and higher certificate options. The five categories of
qualifications on offer to our undergraduates are set out in the following table.
NQF EXIT
QUALIFICATION TYPE QUALIFICATION
LEVEL
Higher Certificate (HC) Higher Certificate in Adult and Community Education and Training 5
Advanced Certificate in Foundation Phase Teaching

Advanced Certificates
Advanced Certificate in Intermediate Phase Teaching
(AC) 6
Advanced Certificate in Senior Phase Teaching
Diploma in Music Performance

Diplomas (Dip) 6
Diploma in Theatre & Performance
Advanced Diploma in Music1

Advanced Diploma in Opera1
Advanced Diplomas
Advanced Diploma in Theatre1 7
(AdvDip)
Advanced Diploma in Adult and Community Education & Training
Advanced Diploma in School Leadership & Management
Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Social Science 7
Bachelor of Social Science in Philosophy, Politics and Economics
Bachelors Degrees
Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art
Bachelor of Arts in Theatre & Performance
8
Bachelor of Music
Bachelor of Social Work
1
May not be offered in 2024

ARTS AND SOCIAL SCIENCES DEGREES • Because most of the majors are open to any BA or BSocSc
students, we do not ask you to specify them when you apply;
There are two types of degree curricula leading to a Bachelor of Arts degree or a Bachelor of we wish to know only if you are interested in Music. All other
Social Science degree: a general degree and degrees with structured curricula. majors you can specify when you register. You are very likely to
change your mind about which majors you wish to take after
MAJORS OFFERED BY you have submitted your application, after you receive more
BACHELOR OF ARTS BACHELOR OF SOCIAL
DEPARTMENTS NOT ESTABLISHED information during Orientation and even during your first year
MAJORS SCIENCE MAJORS
IN THE FACULTY OF HUMANITIES of study. This is not a problem: the general degree is designed
to be flexible and allow you to try subjects out and change your
Afrikaans African Studies Applied Mathematics
mind about which majors you wish to follow.
African Languages & Anthropology Applied Statistics
Literatures Economics Archaeology
Arabic Language & Literature Gender Studies Astrophysics GENERAL DEGREES
Art History and Discourse Industrial Sociology Biochemistry
of Art Philosophy Biology The majority of students in the Faculty register for one of the three-
Business French Politics and Governance Chemistry year general degrees. The Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Social
Chinese Studies Psychology Computer Science Science (BSocSc) degrees offer a flexible structure in which students can choose their own
Classical Studies Social Development Environmental & Geographical courses from a wide selection, following certain rules over the three or four years of the degree,
English Sociology Science and ending up with a specialisation in two or more subjects. These specialisations are known as
Film & Television Studies The Study of Religions Genetics course majors. The full list of available Arts and Social Science majors is set out in the above
French Geology table. Humanities students may select courses from other faculties as a second major, but
German Human Physiology
must have at least one major offered by departments established in the Faculty of Humanities.
Hebrew Language & Literature Informatics
History Law (see entry on page 48)
Italian Marine Biology While the general degrees allow freedom of choice, students must nevertheless comply with
Linguistics Mathematics certain minimum requirements. The curriculum must include at least two majors with 20
Media & Writing Mathematical Statistics semester courses, of which at least ten must be senior courses and 12 must be Humanities
Music Ocean and Atmosphere Science courses. In addition, the following combinations of majors are not offered: French and
Portuguese Organisational Psychology Business French, and Sociology and Industrial Sociology.
Spanish Physics
Theatre & Dance Studies Quantitative Biology EXTENDED PROGRAMMES OF STUDY
Xhosa Communication The extended programmes of study are offered to South African applicants who show the
potential to succeed with additional academic support. Applicants are considered on the basis
of their performance in the NBTs, FPS and on their educational background. The extended
TAKE NOTE OF THE FOLLOWING FOR THE GENERAL DEGREE: programme of study leads to a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Social Science degree but is
structured over four years.
We accept you for the degree, not for specific majors.
• Most of the majors have no additional entrance requirements and are open to all general Students registered for the extended programmes of study receive additional academic
degree students: you may automatically register for the courses in your chosen major support through two introductory Humanities courses in their first year. They also receive
once you have been accepted, provided they do not have additional requirements. additional tutorial support through courses which augment their semester subject courses in
• The main exceptions are Law, Economics and Psychology and most majors housed in the both their first and second year of study.
Faculty of Science, which do have additional entrance requirements, which you would
have to fulfil before being allowed to take those courses. As additional academic support is not available in Economics, Law or majors offered by
the Faculty of Science (with the exception of Environmental and Geographical Science), • Bachelor of Music specialisations are listed with the Performing and Creative Arts degrees
students registered for the extended programmes of study will not be able to pursue majors * Further details on these degrees can be found in the section ‘Structured degrees and diplomas
in these subjects. in the performing and creative arts’ in the tables outlining the admissions requirements on
pages 54 - 56.
DEGREES WITH STRUCTURED CURRICULA
BACHELOR OF SOCIAL SCIENCE IN PHILOSOPHY, POLITICS AND ECONOMICS
Structured degrees are special combinations of disciplines and courses, which have been This classic combination of Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) involves an academically
designed to provide you with a particular knowledge and skills base. Every structured degree rigorous grounding in all of these closely connected subjects, as well as the opportunity
is made up of specific, prescribed courses for each year of study, and every year of study to specialise in at least one of them. Students not only follow a curriculum designed in
builds on the knowledge and skills developed during the previous year. With the exception consultation with all three participating academic disciplines, but also have the opportunity to
of the BSocSc in Philosophy, Politics and Economics (which takes a minimum of three years), participate in an annual PPE Humanities Colloquium and essay competition.
all structured degrees extend over four years.
After the PPE, depending on the courses they have chosen, students may study for Honours
STRUCTURED DEGREES IN THE HUMANITIES degrees in any of the three fields or in PPE. Graduates of the PPE have followed many careers,
• Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art (BA FA) * including work in commerce, government and non-governmental organisations.
• Bachelor of Arts in Theatre & Performance (BA T&P)*
• Bachelor of Music (BMus) * BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK+
• Bachelor of Social Science in Philosophy, Politics and Economics (BSocSc PPE) www.socialdevelopment.uct.ac.za
• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Social Workers interact with individuals, families, groups and communities in life-skills
training, adult education, economic empowerment and various prevention programmes.
GENERAL DEGREES WITH SPECIALISATIONS OFFERED IN THE HUMANITIES Social Work also entails social research, the analysis and formulation of social policies and
the management of social service programmes. This qualification enables students to register
The Faculty also offers a number of specialisations. These are general degrees which offer as professional social workers with the South African Council for Social Service Professions.
specialised curricula in particular subject areas or disciplines, and which may have additional Successful applicants may be eligible for funding to assist with their studies (details are
admission requirements. available from the Department of Social Work and Social Development). Applicants may be
• Bachelor of Arts specialising in Film and Media Production (BA) required to attend an admissions interview and demonstrate successfully that they will meet

the professional requirements of the South African Council for Social Service
Professions. (Details on government-funded study bursaries are available from
the national Department of Social Development)
+ Since first-year Psychology is a compulsory course in the Social Work degree,

all students accepted for the Social Work degree will be accepted to first-year
Psychology courses. Admission to elective senior Psychology courses is subject to
meeting course-specific admission requirements.
BACHELOR OF ARTS SPECIALISING IN FILM AND MEDIA

PRODUCTION
www.cfms.uct.ac.za
This specialisation seeks to develop a range of practical, theoretical, historical,
and analytical skills in the areas of film, media, and visual studies. Students
initially register for a BA degree with majors in Film and Television Studies and
Media & Writing.
DANCE
For the first eighteen months of studies, all students take the same core courses, regardless of www.dance.uct.ac.za
whether they are intending to follow a general degree with double majors in Film and Television The following qualifications are offered:
Studies and Media & Writing, or whether they are hoping to follow the structured curriculum • Bachelor of Arts in Theatre & Performance (BA T&P) – 4 years
specialisation in Film and Media Production (FMP). • Diploma in Theatre & Performance (DTP) – 3 years
As formal acceptance for the FMP specialisation only occurs in the second semester of the These qualifications are designed to cater equally for aspirant professional dancers,
second year, students are initially accepted and registered for the general Bachelor of Arts choreographers, designers, dance teachers and academics. An audition is required for
degree. Selection criteria are explained during the first year of study. Students would be admission. The Head of the Centre for Theatre, Dance and Performance Studies may motivate
expected to work in media on campus and to find internships in the media industry should for consideration of other qualifications or experience in lieu of the NBT requirement where
they be selected for the Film and Media Production specialisation. an applicant shows exceptional talent in the audition. Please refer to the specific admission
requirements in the tables on pages 54 - 56.
STRUCTURED DEGREES AND DIPLOMAS IN THE PERFORMING AND
CREATIVE ARTS THEATRE
www.drama.uct.ac.za
Undergraduate degrees and diplomas in this field include qualifications in Dance, Theatre, Fine The following qualifications are offered:
Art and Music. Admission to the performing and creative arts degrees is highly competitive. • Bachelor of Arts in Theatre & Performance (BA T&P) – 4 years
Applicants in Music, Dance or Theatre will be required to perform satisfactorily in an audition, • Diploma in Theatre & Performance (DTP) – 3 years
and applicants for the Fine Art degree are required to complete a supplementary application • Advanced Diploma in Theatre (AdvDip Theatre) – 1 year
questionnaire (part of the application booklet, and downloadable from the online application
screens) as well as submit a portfolio of work for consideration. These qualifications are intended for those who wish to work professionally in the theatre as
performers, makers, designers, teachers, and facilitators or as academics and researchers. An
As long as the FPS and NBT scores meet the minimum requirements for admission, the leading audition is required for admission. The Head of the Centre for Theatre, Dance and Performance
indicator for admission is performance in the audition/portfolio submission, and places are Studies may motivate for consideration of other qualifications or experience in lieu of the NBT
awarded on merit. requirement where an applicant shows exceptional talent in the audition. Please refer to the
specific admission requirements in the MUSIC
tables on pages 54 - 56. Students in www.sacm.uct.ac.za
the general Bachelor of Arts degree The following qualifications are offered:
may choose to study Theatre and • Bachelor of Music (BMus) - 4 years
Dance Studies academic courses as • Advanced Diploma in Music (AdvDip Music) - 1 year
part of a general degree curriculum. • Advanced Diploma in Opera (AdvDip Opera) - 1 year
Auditions are not required to register for • Diploma in Music Performance (DMP) - 3 years
these courses.
Please refer to the specific admission requirements in the tables on pages
FINE ART 54 - 56. The South African College of Music offers training in the entire
www.michaelis.uct.ac.za range of orchestral instruments, piano, organ, voice, African percussion and
The qualification is offered as: jazz. The College boasts several string, wind, jazz and percussion ensembles,
• Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art (BA FA) – 4 years as well as choirs, a symphony orchestra and the Jazz Big Band. In addition, the
Opera School annually presents a season of opera performances.
The BA(FA) is a four-year degree that offers specialist and
interdisciplinary training in all aspects of visual art. The Michaelis All students are required either to play in the orchestras or ensembles, or sing in the choirs,
School of Fine Art has well-equipped studios offering photography, new at the discretion of the Director of the College of Music. Students who complete diploma or
media, painting, print media, sculpture and curatorship. The degree also equips students with the degree courses are ready to enter the professional world of music as performers, teachers,
critical and theoretical skills necessary for the context-specific understanding of contemporary art composers, researchers and audio technologists.
practice. The degree is designed to enable students to develop as artists at a level of best practice.
BACHELOR OF MUSIC
Studio work practical concentrations offered are: painting, sculpture, photography, printmedia This degree is offered in the following subject focus or streams: General, Performance, Music
and new media. In the fourth year of study, students follow individual study streams that have Technology and Composition. Please refer to the specific admission requirements in the tables
been chosen in consultation with members of the teaching staff. Students are expected to on pages 54 - 56. In addition to the general Bachelor of Music, students can pursue the
produce a body of work to a professional standard in their final year. following curriculum specialisations or streams.

BACHELOR OF MUSIC STREAMS DIPLOMA IN MUSIC PERFORMANCE STREAMS
African Music Performance African Music

General Jazz Studies
Jazz Studies Opera
Music Technology Classical
Opera World Music
Classical Composition
Classical Performance EDUCATION
www.education.uct.ac.za
ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN MUSIC The School of Education is located within the Faculty of Humanities. An initial teacher education
This qualification is offered to graduates of the Diploma in Music Performance. Admission is qualification is offered only at postgraduate level. To follow a career in teaching it is necessary
subject to satisfactory performance in the Diploma as well as an audition. It further develops to obtain an undergraduate degree in the Faculties of Humanities, Commerce or Science before
skills taught in the Diploma and provides a foundation for those wishing to progress to the applying for admission to a one-year Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). Undergraduate
Postgraduate Diploma in Music (PGDip Music). requirements for primary and secondary school teachers vary and applicants are encouraged to
contact the School of Education for advice before planning their degree curriculum.
ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN OPERA
This qualification is offered to graduates of the Diploma in Music Performance specialising in The School of Education offers the following two undergraduate programmes in Adult and
Opera. Admission is subject to satisfactory performance in the Diploma as well as an audition. Community Education and Training (ACET): an entry level qualification (the Higher Certificate
It further develops skills taught in the Diploma and provides a foundation for those wishing to in ACET) and the post-professional qualification (the Advanced Diploma in ACET). UCT does
progress to the Postgraduate Diploma in Music (PGDip Music). however not offer any initial professional teaching qualifications in ACET, which lead to
professionally qualified status which is necessary for teaching in a Community Learning
DIPLOMA IN MUSIC PERFORMANCE Centre (CLC). Our ACET programmes are designed to create bridges and ladders into formal
This qualification offers a similar practical curriculum to that of the Bachelor of Music but study particularly for adult learners who have practice experience within the non-formal
excludes some of the academic subjects prescribed for the degree programme and is of sector or CLC but who may not have all the requirements to enter a learning programme.
three years’ duration only. It is designed to prepare students for careers in particular practical
curriculum specialisations or streams. Please refer to the specific admission requirements in the Alternative admission is done through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), which was
tables on pages 54 - 56. introduced in 1994 as a formal process, particularly for people who fall short of entry
qualifications but have the necessary experience and knowledge to enter a programme.
The Diploma in Music Performance is available in the following five curriculum specialisations
or streams.

HIGHER CERTIFICATE IN ADULT AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND courses from their first year of study at the first sitting and have achieved an average of at
TRAINING (ACET) NQF LEVEL 5 least 65% in a standard first year curriculum (i.e. eight semester courses, excluding summer
and winter term courses).
The Higher Certificate is an access and introductory qualification to the study of ACET in a
higher education institution and training context. This is an entry level qualification which is Candidates can apply for admission to graduate LLB study through the Faculty of Law during
intended to provide learners with basic introductory knowledge, cognitive and conceptual their final year in the BA/BSocSc either with or without a Law major. The graduate LLB
tools and practical techniques to enable further study in ACET. This qualification is underpinned comprises at least a further two years of study depending on the undergraduate majors.
by the values of engaged citizenship, social justice and transformation which are important Applicants who complete their first degree will be considered on a competitive basis, taking
strategic goals of the university into account UCT’s admissions policy.
It aims to develop learners who are capable of applying such knowledge and competence Students in the extended (4-year degree) programme for the general BA/BSocSci degrees
as adult education, training and development practitioners. It also provides a route into the must have passed all their courses in their first and second years of registration on a standard
Diploma in Adult and Community Education and Training, which is not offered at UCT. courseload (i.e. 6 semester courses per year, excluding co-requisite Augmenting courses) on a
first sitting and have obtained a cumulative average of at least 65% after completion of the
ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN ADULT AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND second year of the extended programme.
TRAINING (ACET) NQF LEVEL 7
The 65% GPA is the minimum requirement for candidates to be eligible for
This qualification is offered as a continuing professional development qualification for Adult consideration for a place on a competitive basis. It does not guarantee a place. Given
Education Training (AET) and Community Education and Training (CET) lecturers at the the large number of candidates who apply for the law major and the fact that places are
community colleges and further education and training centres, art colleges, adult education limited and are offered on a competitive basis to candidates with the highest GPA, it is
centres, and adult educators in NGOs, trade unions, human resource development, health likely that a candidate will require a GPA well above 65% in order to actually receive a
education, religious education and education programmes based in local government, libraries place. Results in supplementary examinations are not included when calculating the first-
and museums. year average but the results of deferred examinations are included. Please note that the Law
Faculty retains the discretion to admit Humanities students with an average of less than
The purpose of the qualification is to strengthen and enhance an existing specialisation in a 65% on redress grounds.
subject or field, or to develop a new role or practice to support teaching and learning in ACET.
MAJORS WITH QUANTITATIVE REQUIREMENTS
The qualification aims are to offer intellectual enrichment in Adult Learning
Theory and Practice and Policy & Development towards Social Change Admission to major subjects with a strong quantitative
and to offer an intensive focus on two applied specialisms namely component in the curriculum carry additional entrance
Curriculum Studies and Design and Leadership and Management of requirements. To pursue courses with quantitative
an educational project. requirements as part of the curriculum, applicants
must meet subject-specific requirements in either
LAW NSC Mathematics (or equivalent).
www.law.uct.ac.za
Students may pursue a BA/BSocSc with a major in Law from NSC Mathematical Literacy or specified
their second year of study. To gain admission to the Law achievement in the Quantitate Literacy (QL)
major of the general BA/BSocSc degrees, candidates must component of the NBT may be considered
have performed well enough in their school-leaving in lieu of NSC Mathematics for some
examinations and the NBTs to gain admission to the subjects.
Bachelor of Laws (LLB) OR must have passed all the
ECONOMICS Further advice for applicants in this category can be found on the Faculty website:
https://commerce.uct.ac.za/school-economics www.humanities.uct.ac.za/hum/apply/undergraduate/transtudents
Students require NSC results of at least 60% in Mathematics for admission to the Economics
major. The equivalent Cambridge results are at least a B at AS-level or D at A-level. ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND THE CALCULATION OF POINTS
For applicants writing the National Senior Certificate, consult page 15 for information on
PSYCHOLOGY the calculation of scores. Specific subject requirements: all applicants must have achieved a
www.psychology.uct.ac.za minimum of 50% for English Home Language or 60% for English First Additional Language
Students wishing to pursue a major in Psychology require NSC results of at least 50% in NSC (FAL). For applicants completing the National Senior Certificate, Life Orientation must be
Mathematics or a score of Proficient for the Quantitative Literacy (QL) component of the NBT. passed at 50%, but is not included in the points calculation.
Students who meet neither the NSC Mathematics nor QL requirement may be required to
enrol for Mathematics foundation courses as a pre-requisite or co-requisite to their first year Applicants with an international or non-NSC school-leaving qualification are considered on
Psychology courses. Evaluation and placement into these courses is done during Orientation. an individual basis. Details of the minimum admission criteria, and how to calculate your
Admission Point Score (APS), can be found in the table on page 17.
MAJORS FALLING UNDER THE FACULTY OF SCIENCE
Students should refer to the relevant entries under the Faculty of Science section in this NATIONAL BENCHMARK TESTS (NBTS)
prospectus for specific admission requirements to their course majors.
Applicants to the Faculty of Humanities need only write the Academic & Quantitative Literacy
APPLICANTS TRANSFERRING FROM ANOTHER HIGHER EDUCATION test and not the Mathematics test unless they intend to take courses in Mathematics. The NBT
INSTITUTION scores are used to complement the Faculty Point Score (FPS) in making admissions decisions.
As the NBT assesses entry-level academic proficiency, an applicant with a Lower Intermediate
The Faculty of Humanities has a limited number of places for those applicants who wish or Basic score on the Academic Literacy (AL) portion of the NBT will not normally be considered
to transfer from another institution. These places are reserved for students who have not for admission to degree studies in the Faculty of Humanities.
been excluded from the other institution and have achieved a high average. Normally, an
average of at least 65% across a full load of courses is required with offers typically made The results of the Quantitative Literacy (QL) section are usually only used for entry into Humanities
at 70% and above. The admission decision is based on both the FPS and the tertiary record. degrees that have Psychology or any other course which has quantitative requirements as part

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS BY QUALIFICATION
BACHELOR OF ARTS (BA) AND BACHELOR OF SOCIAL

SCIENCE (BSOCSC)
Minimum requirements: NSC endorsed for degree study/ matric
exemption. FPS 380 with Academic Literacy NBT score at Intermediate Level.
50% for English (HL) or 60% for English (FAL).
Band A
FPS 450 or above
FPS
NBT AL: Proficient
All applicants
Probable admission
of the curriculum. The NBT test is also used as a placement indicator to identify applicants in need Band B
WPS 450 or above
WPS
of language development courses, or other additional academic support; and as an indicator, along NBT AL: Upper Intermediate or above
with the FPS, of eligibility for an early offer or an Entrance Scholarship. South African applicants will
usually not be considered until an NBT score is available. Applicants who are unable to write the NBT Only SA applicants Possible admission
Band C
test during the scheduled sessions in the year preceding admission (for example an applicant who is in targeted redress FPS 380 or above
FPS
out of the country on a gap year) may be made a conditional offer on the basis of excellent results, categories NBT AL: Intermediate or above
on condition that the NBT test is written, and results available, prior to Orientation and Registration.
No Entrance Scholarship will be awarded without an NBT score.
BACHELOR OF SOCIAL SCIENCE IN PHILOSOPHY, POLITICS AND
NSC REQUIREMENTS SELECTION PROCEDURES ECONOMICS (BSOCSC) (PPE)
Minimum requirements: NSC endorsed for degree study/ matric exemption.
Applicants are considered on the basis of final secondary school-leaving results and the NBT score.
FPS 450 with Academic Literacy NBT score at Upper Intermediate and
Where final secondary school-leaving results are not available, the Faculty will initially consider an Quantitative Literacy NBT score at Upper Intermediate. NSC Mathematics 60%.
application for a provisional or conditional offer on the basis of internal examination results and the 50% for English (HL) or 60% for English (FAL).
NBT score.
In addition to the selection process and admission points requirements, admission to the Performing
and Creative Arts degrees includes the assessment of a portfolio and/or a successful audition. Guaranteed admission
Please refer to the specific admission requirements stipulated for Fine Art, Theatre & Performance, FPS 450 or above
Dance and Music. These are in the tables on pages 60 - 61. Band A NBT AL: Proficient
All applicants
FPS NBT QL: Upper Intermediate or above
Applicants for the Performing and Creative Arts are advised to liaise with the relevant departments Subject requirements: Mathematics 60%
for assistance in preparing for the audition or portfolio. You are also advised to consult the or above
following websites for information pertaining to current selection procedures:
Michaelis School of Fine Art: www.michaelis.uct.ac.za
South African College of Music: www.music.uct.ac.za / www.sacm.uct.ac.za
BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK (BSW) BACHELOR OF ARTS IN THEATRE & PERFORMANCE (BA(T&P))
Minimum requirements: NSC endorsed for degree study/ matric exemption. Minimum requirements: NSC endorsed for degree study/ matric exemption. FPS 380 with
FPS 380 with Academic Literacy NBT score at Intermediate Level 50% for English (HL) Academic Literacy NBT score at Intermediate Level. 50% for English (HL) or 60% for English
or 60% for English (FAL). (FAL). Satisfactory performance in an audition.
Additional Minimum requirements: Applicants may be required to attend an Note: The leading indicator for admission is performance in the audition, and places are
admissions interview and demonstrate successfully that they will meet the professional awarded on merit.
requirements of the South African Council for Social Service Professionals.
ELIGIBLE ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Possible admission
Guaranteed admission FPS 380 or above
Band A All applicants
All applicants FPS 450 or above NBT AL: Intermediate or above
FPS Satisfactory performance in an audition
NBT AL: Proficient
Possible admission
Probable admission Only SA applicants
Band B Applicants below the minimum requirements who excel in
All applicants WPS 450 or above in targeted redress
WPS the audition evaluation may be considered for admission to
NBT AL: Upper Intermediate or above categories
the Diploma in Theatre and Performance.
Only SA applicants Possible admission

Band C
in targeted redress FPS 380 or above
FPS BACHELOR OF MUSIC (BMUS)
categories NBT AL: Intermediate or above
Minimum requirements: NSC endorsed for degree study. FPS 380 with Academic Literacy
NBT score at Intermediate Level. 50% for English (HL) or 60% for English (FAL). Satisfactory
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN FINE ART (BA(FA)) performance in an audition.
Minimum requirements: NSC endorsed for degree study/ matric exemption. Note: The leading indicator for admission is performance in the audition, and places are
FPS 380 with Academic Literacy NBT score at Intermediate Level. 50% for English (HL) or awarded on merit.
60% for English (FAL). Satisfactory performance in a portfolio evaluation.
Note: The leading indicator for admission is performance in the audition, and places are
awarded on merit. Possible admission
FPS 380 or above
ELIGIBLE ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS NBT AL: Intermediate or above
Satisfactory performance in an audition
All applicants
Possible admission Subject requirements:
FPS 380 or above NSC Music 60% or above
All applicants NBT AL: Intermediate or above Unisa Music Theory Grade V or above
Satisfactory performance in a portfolio evaluation Unisa Music Practical Grade VII or above
Possible admission
Only SA applicants
Applicants below the minimum requirements who excel in
in targeted redress
the audition evaluation may be considered for admission to a
categories
Foundation programme or the Diploma in Music Performance.

ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN MUSIC (ADVDIP(MUSIC)) DIPLOMA IN MUSIC PERFORMANCE (DMP)
Minimum requirements: Successful completion of the Diploma in Music Performance or Minimum requirements: NSC endorsed for diploma study. Academic Literacy NBT score at
equivalent qualification. Satisfactory performance in an audition and music theory test. Intermediate Level. 50% for English (HL) or 60% for English (FAL). Satisfactory performance in
an audition and music theory test.
Note: The leading indicator for admission is performance in the audition, and places are Note: The leading indicator for admission is performance in the
awarded on merit. audition, and places are awarded on merit.

Possible admission ELIGIBLE ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Diploma in Music Performance or equivalent qualification with an Possible admission
average of 65% or above. NSC endorsed for diploma studies.
All applicants
Satisfactory performance in an audition and music theory test or a All applicants NBT AL: Intermediate or above
first class pass in the performance course(s) which forms part of the Satisfactory performance in an audition and Music theory test
Diploma in Music Performance.
ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN OPERA (ADVDIP(OPERA)) DIPLOMA IN THEATRE & PERFORMANCE (DTP)

Minimum requirements: Successful completion of the Diploma in Music Minimum requirements: NSC endorsed for diploma study. Academic Literacy NBT score at
Performance specialising in Opera. Satisfactory performance in an audition and music Intermediate Level. 50% for English (HL) or 60% for English (FAL). Satisfactory performance
theory test. in an audition.
Note: The leading indicator for admission is performance in the audition, and places are Note: The leading indicator for admission is performance in the audition, and places are
awarded on merit. awarded on merit.
ELIGIBLE ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS ELIGIBLE ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Possible admission
Possible admission
Diploma in Music Performance or equivalent qualification with an
NSC endorsed for diploma studies
average of 65% or above. All applicants
All applicants NBT AL: Intermediate or above
Satisfactory performance in an audition and music theory test or a
Satisfactory performance in an audition
first class pass in the performance course(s) which forms part of the
Diploma in Music Performance.
ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN THEATRE (ADVDIP(THEATRE))
Minimum requirements: Successful completion of the Diploma in Theatre & Performance or
equivalent qualification.

Possible admission
A Diploma in Theatre and Performance with an average of 65% in third year
Studiowork (TDP3041W or TDP3043W) and 60% average in second year
All applicants
Theatre & Dance Studies major courses (TDP2010F and TDP2011S)
A qualification from another Higher Education institution deemed equivalent
by the HOD.

HIGHER CERTIFICATE IN ADULT AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND
TRAINING (ACET) ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR APPLICANTS WITH NON-SOUTH AFRICAN
SCHOOL-LEAVING QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum requirements: It is an entry level, non-professional qualification for those who
have at least two years practitioner experience but no education and training at this level.
Applications are also invited from those who have successfully completed a non-South African
secondary school-leaving qualification. To be considered for admission, all applicants must
ELIGIBLE ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS qualify for matriculation exemption from the Matriculation Board. The criteria specified for
matriculation exemption are the minimum entry requirements and do not guarantee admission.
Possible admission The sole subject requirement for all qualifications is English for which a pass is required for
A National Senior Certificate or A Level 4 National Certificate admission. Some qualifications may carry additional subject requirements, and particular
(Vocational) or
All applicants subjects may also be required for matriculation exemption.
An appropriate Level 4 Certificate in Adult Education and
Training or Community Education and Training or Early
Childhood Education or via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Admission is competitive and each application is evaluated individually on its merits. Assessment
is based on performance in the top six secondary school leaving subjects, that must include
English but excluding Life Orientation and any of the AP subjects beginning with the most senior
Note: Preference will be given to persons with two years’ experience in adult education. subject passed. A points rating system is used to guide admission decisions. The APS in the
tables below reflect the level at which you are likely to receive an offer. While your application
is assessed with reference to your APS, additional factors may be taken into account and each
ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN ADULT AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND application is considered on its individual merits, particularly for admission to qualifications in
TRAINING (ACET) the performing and creative arts.
ELIGIBLE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS All applicants who are normally resident, or at school, in South Africa must write the NBT. As
the NBT assesses entry-level academic proficiency, applicants are expected to attain a Proficient
An approved and recognised level 6 Diploma in ACET; or score on the Academic Literacy portion of the test.
a level 7 Postgraduate Certificate in Education; or
a BEd degree in ACET; or The following information is a guide for applicants with Cambridge Assessment International
a historically equivalent qualification in adult education; or Education (CAIE) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB) school-leaving qualifications.
an Advanced Diploma in Adult and Community Education and
CAIE applicants with only GCSE/ IGSCE/ levels subjects are not eligible for admission.
Training Teaching; or
All applicants a new Advanced Certificate (Level 6 on the current 10-level
NQF) which followed a former Diploma in Education (including GENERAL CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION ADVANCED AND ADVANCED
a National Professional Diploma in Education) may also be SUBSIDIARY (GCE A-LEVEL AND AS-LEVEL) APPLICANTS
presented for admission to an Advanced Diploma; or To meet the minimum requirements for matriculation exemption, applicants must hold at least
via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) two A-level subjects at a grade of E or above and at least three IGSCE/ GSCE subjects at a
AND at least two years of experience as adult community grade of C or above including English Language and an approved second language. Where an
educators and trainers. applicant does not hold A-levels, at least four AS-levels are required at grade D or above and at
least one approved IGSCE/ GSCE subject at a grade of C or above including English Language
and an approved second language.
It is important to note that matriculation exemption requires specific subject combinations and
that certain subjects are not recognised. To qualify for admission to Humanities qualifications,
applicants should have passed two A-level subjects at grade C or above. Where an applicant
has not completed A-level subjects, AS-levels may be accepted at the rate of two AS-levels for
each required A-level.

To calculate your Admission Point Score, combine your best A-level subjects with your best MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION
relevant IGSCE subjects to reach a total of six subjects. Each subject can only be counted once at
A-level or IGSCE. Bachelor of Arts (Fine Art) Admission Point Score
Bachelor of Arts (Theatre & 32
NAMIBIAN SECONDARY SCHOOL CERTIFICATE (NSSC) APPLICANTS Performance) Satisfactory performance in the portfolio/ audition
To meet the minimum requirements for matriculation exemption, applicants must hold at least Bachelor of Music evaluation
four Higher Level subjects at level 3 or above and at least one Ordinary Level subjects at a grade
of C or above. Diploma in Music Performance or an equivalent
qualification with an average of 65%
To calculate your Admission Point Score (APS), combine your best Higher Level subjects with the best
Advanced Diploma in Music Satisfactory performance in an audition and music
relevant Ordinary Level subjects to reach a total of six subjects. Each subject can only be counted
Advanced Diploma in Opera theory test or a first-class pass in the performance
once at Higher Level or Ordinary Level.
course(s) which form part of the Diploma in Music
Performance
INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA (IB) APPLICANTS
Applicants must hold a full diploma with a minimum of three higher level subjects from a total of
six subjects and a total of 24 points. School-leaving qualification endorsed for Diploma
Diploma in Music studies
Performance
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS BY QUALIFICATION Diploma in Theatre and Satisfactory performance in an audition
Performance
For Diploma in Music Performance: Satisfactory
MINIMUM LEVEL AT WHICH YOU
performance in a music theory test
REQUIREMENTS ARE LIKELY TO RECEIVE
FOR ADMISSION AN OFFER
A National Senior Certificate or A Level 4 National
A-Level: E A-Level: D Certificate (Vocational)
AS-Level: D AS-Level: B
English language
NSSC: Grade 3 NSSC: Grade 2 Higher Certificate in or An appropriate Level 4 Certificate in Adult
(for all qualifications)
GCSE/ IGCSE/ C GCSE/ IGCSE/ A Adult and Community Education and Training
IB HL: Grade 3 IB HL: Grade 4 Education and Training
IB SL: Grade 4 IB SL: Grade 6 or Community Education and Training or Early
Childhood Education or via Recognition of Prior
Bachelor of Arts Learning (RPL).
Admission Point Score Admission Point Score
Bachelor of Social Science
32 38
Bachelor of Social Work
A level 6 Diploma in ACET or level 7 Postgraduate
Admission Point Score Admission Point Score Certificate in Education
32 39
or An Advanced Diploma in Adult and Community
Minimum Mathematics Minimum Mathematics Advanced Diploma in Education and Training Teaching
Bachelor of Social Science Adult and Community
requirement requirement
(Philosophy, Politics and Education and Training or A BEd. degree in ACET
A-Level: E A-Level: E
Economics)
AS-Level: C AS-Level: C or A level 6 Advanced Certificate which followed
NSSC: Grade 3 NSSC: Grade 3 a Diploma in Education or via Recognition of Prior
IB HL: Grade 3 IB HL: Grade 3 Learning (RPL).
IB SL: Grade 5 IB SL: Grade 5
FACULTY OF LAW WHY STUDY LAW?
Students who wish to become legal practitioners require an LLB

(Bachelor of Laws) degree. An LLB is the universal general qualification
for the practice of law, although the content of the LLB programme
differs from country to country. During the course of the LLB degree
students are taught the fundamentals of South African law and the
South African legal system. At the same time, they are equipped with
the skills necessary to be successful legal practitioners.
SOME OF THE SKILLS THE UCT LLB STRIVES TO IMPART ARE: pleadings, and presenting cases in court, most often though not exclusively
the ability to read, comprehend, and critically evaluate complex documents, in the High Court. Advocates must be briefed or instructed by attorneys; they
including cases and legislation; the ability to write clearly, logically, do not take instructions directly from members of the public. Obtaining the
coherently, and succinctly; and the ability to analyse and solve problems. LLB does not automatically entitle non-citizens and non-permanent residents
of South Africa to be admitted to practise in this country.
By the end of their LLB degrees, graduates are able to assess, interpret
and apply the law, and have the historical, comparative and jurisprudential ATTORNEYS
background that is essential for a thorough and critical understanding of legal An LLB graduate must serve as a candidate attorney with a practising attorney
institutions, the law and its application. and then write a professional examination set by the relevant provincial
law society to become an attorney. Attorneys’ work includes drafting legal
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES documents, negotiating settlements of disputes, and preparing cases for
presentation in court.
LLB graduates are employed in the legal profession and in a wide variety of
positions in the judiciary, government, NGOs, companies and other enterprises. Attorneys take instructions from members of the public and, if necessary,
may brief or seek an opinion from an advocate. Obtaining the LLB does not
ACADEMIC automatically entitle non-citizens and non- permanent residents of South
An LLB degree is the first step to an academic career. UCT’s Master of Laws and Africa to be admitted to practise in this country.
Postgraduate Diploma programmes offer a very broad range of postgraduate
courses from which to select a specialisation. BUSINESS
Law graduates are to be found across the whole business spectrum, from
ADVOCATE small firms to large corporations. They are legal advisors in tax, real estate,
LLB graduates undergo one year’s training labour relations, contracts, public information, and acquisitions; they are
in pupillage with a practising member forensic auditors and ombudsmen, ethics and employment officers,
of the Bar. After an admission and policy and legislative analysts. Publishing firms look for legal
examination, the work of editors, researchers, and writers.
an advocate generally
involves research, GOVERNMENT
drafting opinions and The Department of Justice employs state attorneys,
UG PROSPECTUS 2024 ADMISSION | 65

prosecutors, legal drafters and of course magistrates and judges. Law graduates interested The best approach in choosing your route is to be realistic about your current ability to deal
in international law can join the Department of Foreign Affairs or Department of Trade and with a large workload and lots of reading. In addition, ask yourself whether you prefer to
Industry. Other government departments at both national and provincial levels employ enter training for a professional qualification immediately or whether you are interested in
lawyers, as do the National Parliament, provincial legislatures and municipal councils. In fact, other disciplines too.
there is no sector of government in which lawyers do not play a role!
THE DIFFERENT ROUTES EXPLAINED
NGOS AND PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATIONS
Researchers and lobbyists are in demand and many law graduates who are committed to the THE UNDERGRADUATE LLB (4 YEARS MINIMUM)
transformation of South African society work in such organisations. The undergraduate LLB is aimed at candidates who do not already hold a university degree.
Most candidates are school leavers. The admission requirements for this degree are high. This
THE LLB PROGRAMME is because all three LLB streams are taught together in the same class and school leavers must
be able to manage the workload.
There are three routes to obtaining an LLB degree:
• The undergraduate LLB route (minimum of four years in duration) As the description indicates, this route can be completed in four years, but as a result only a
• The combined Humanities and LLB or Commerce and LLB route (minimum of five years limited number of non-law courses can be fitted into the curriculum.
in duration)
• The graduate LLB route (minimum of three years in duration) THE COMBINED HUMANITIES/COMMERCE LLB (5 YEARS MINIMUM)
The combined Law and Humanities or Law and Commerce route allows candidates to do what
Choosing the appropriate route is important. There are advantages to each. However, the is described as an accelerated combined Humanities/Commerce and LLB degree. This means
legal education offered by each route is identical i.e. there is no difference between the routes that students receive two degrees by the end of their combined programme; a bachelor’s
as far as the law courses are concerned, and each of the routes leads to the same endpoint, degree in the Humanities or Commerce faculty (BA/BSocSci or BCom) which is awarded at the
the award of an LLB degree. In choosing between the different routes, it may be helpful for end of their first three years of study, and a bachelor’s degree in law (LLB), which is awarded
you to consider how well prepared you are for university studies (i.e. how serious you are at the end of a further two years of study.
about studying law now, amongst other things) and the amount of higher education you wish
to receive in addition to a legal education. It is also possible to do a combined BBusSci LLB programme which requires at least 6 years
of study. At the end of their Humanities/ Commerce degrees, students will graduate with a

degree in which they have a major in a commerce or humanities As a general rule, no more than ten international applicants will be accepted into the undergraduate
subject and a major in law. LLB programme.

Please note that students must apply for admission to the Law
Faculty at the end of their undergraduate Humanities or Commerce Guaranteed admission
degree and must obtain a cumulative GPA of at least 60% in their Band A 510 FPS or above
All SA applicants
UCT undergraduate degree in order to proceed to the two-year FPS NBT scores of proficient for AL
and intermediate or above for QL
graduate LLB degree.
Probable Admission
This route allows candidates who do not meet the requirements for Band B 495 WPS or above
All SA applicants
admission to the undergraduate LLB to apply for a Humanities or WPS NBT scores of proficient for AL
and intermediate or above for QL
Commerce degree, to adapt to university studies, and, if they perform
satisfactorily in their first year of study, to join the law stream in their Possible admission
Only SA applicants in
second or third year at university. The advantage of this route over the Band C 460 FPS or above
targeted redress
undergraduate LLB route is that a full major in a discipline other than FPS NBT scores of proficient for AL
categories
law is possible, thus resulting in a more rounded higher education experience. and intermediate or above for QL
Probable admission
THE GRADUATE LLB (3 YEARS MINIMUM) 520 FPS or above
International applicants
The graduate LLB route is for students who have completed an undergraduate degree NBT scores of proficient for AL
in any discipline without having majored in law. This route allows candidates to and intermediate or above for QL
complete a full degree in a discipline other than law and then add the LLB. This route
can be completed in a minimum of six years (3 + 3). In order to be admitted to the ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR APPLICANTS WITH NON-SOUTH AFRICAN SCHOOL-
3-year graduate LLB, applicants must meet certain advertised admission requirements LEAVING CERTIFICATES
and are offered places on a competitive basis.
For applicants in possession of, or writing, other than South African qualifications, offers of
places may only be made subject to the equivalent bachelor’s exemption being obtained from the
The advantage of this route over the combined route is that candidates obtain a broad Matriculation Board (refer to mb.usaf.ac.za/exemption-process/ for further information and online
education in the Humanities, Commerce or Sciences in addition to their education in law. assessment and application).
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLICANTS HOLDING THE In addition, candidates writing A-level, AS-level, NSSC or IB Diploma examinations* must meet the
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE following minimum requirements, obtained using the scoring table in the admissions prospectus.
Meeting these requirements does not guarantee admission which is limited by available capacity.
The Faculty cannot admit all those who apply to study law, as applications vastly
exceed the available places. If there are more applicants who meet the admission PROBABLE ADMISSION MINIMUM ADMISSION
criteria than there are places, only the best applicants in each category will be made International applicants 46+ APS points 44+ APS points
an offer.
All SA applicants 44+ APS points 36+ APS points
ADMISSION TO THE 4-YEAR UNDERGRADUATE LLB SA applicants in targeted redress categories 39+ APS points 36+ APS points
Applications are assessed on the basis of the applicant’s results in the National Senior
Certificate (NSC) or other school-leaving examination, together with the applicant’s * Applicants writing other international authority examinations will be assessed on their individual merits.
results in the Academic Literacy and Quantitative Literacy components of the National
NOTE: As explained in the section on ‘career opportunities’ above, obtaining the LLB does not automatically
Benchmark Tests (NBTs). entitle non-citizens and non-permanent residents of South Africa to be admitted to practise as attorney or
advocates in this country.
ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR APPLICANTS WITH NON-SOUTH
AFRICAN SCHOOL-LEAVING CERTIFICATES
For applicants in possession of, or writing, other than South African qualifications, offers of places may
only be made subject to the equivalent bachelor’s exemption being obtained from the South African Higher
Education (Matriculation) Board (refer to mb.usaf.ac.za/exemption-process/ for further information and
online assessment and application).
In addition, candidates writing A-level, AS-level, NSSC or IB Diploma examinations* must meet the following
minimum requirements, obtained using the scoring table in the admissions prospectus. Meeting these
requirements does not guarantee admission which is limited by available capacity.
ADMISSION TO THE COMBINED LAW AND HUMANITIES OR LAW AND COMMERCE

LLB STREAMS
Applicants to the Humanities and Commerce Faculties must meet the admission requirements of those
faculties in order to commence their undergraduate Humanities or Commerce degree. Students who wish
to do a combined degree begin taking law subjects in their second year of study as an undergraduate
major. Students are not automatically permitted to do these law subjects. The number of places available
on the law major stream is limited and varies from year to year. Places are offered on a competitive basis to
candidates with the highest results and in accordance with the Law Faculty’s redress enrolment targets.
In order to be eligible for consideration for possible (but not guaranteed) admission to the law major stream
of the BA/BSocSc or BCom/BBusSci degrees, candidates must either have achieved sufficient points in the NSC
and National Benchmark Tests to have qualified for admission to the four-year undergraduate LLB degree, on
a competitive basis, in their first year of study OR must have attained an average of at least 65% in the case
of Humanities students and 63% in the case of Commerce students on a first sitting of a full first year course
load totalling at least 144 credits for Humanities students and 164 credits for Commerce students.
* Applicants writing other international authority examinations will be assessed on their individual merits.

In order to be eligible for consideration for possible (but not guaranteed) admission to the ADMISSION TO THE GRADUATE LLB
law major stream, candidates in the extended (4-year degree) programme for the general
BA/BSocSci degrees must have passed all their courses in their first and second years of Applicants must obtain an average of at least 65% in a standard undergraduate degree to be
registration on a standard course-load (i.e. 6 semester courses per year, excluding co-requisite considered for possible admission to the graduate LLB. This average is calculated from your
Augmenting courses) on a first sitting and have obtained a cumulative average of at least results over of all years of your undergraduate degree. Places are however limited and are
65% after completion of the second year of the extended programme. allocated to applicants with the highest averages on a competitive basis and in accordance
with the University’s admissions policy. Given the large number of applicants and the limited
Results in supplementary exams are not included when calculating the average but results in number of places, it is likely that applicants will require a higher GPA to actually receive place.
deferred exams are included.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
A UCT student (who has not been excluded) may apply to transfer to the LLB degree but
The 65% first year GPA for Humanities students and 63% first year GPA for Commerce must satisfy the requirements for admission to the LLB on a competitive basis. Transferring
students is the minimum requirement for a candidate to be eligible for consideration for a applicants will be considered for admission on the basis of their secondary school-leaving
place on the law major on a competitive basis. It does not guarantee a place. Given the results, their post-school academic record, their NBT scores (where required) and may be
large number of candidates who apply for the law major and the fact that places are limited required to submit a letter of motivation. Successful applicants may be granted credit or
and are offered on a competitive basis to candidates with the highest GPAs, it is likely that exemption or both for courses already completed, up to a maximum of four full courses (or
a candidate will require a GPA well above 65% or 63% in order to actually receive a place. the equivalent).
The Law Faculty retains a discretion to admit Humanities students with an average of less than A non-UCT student who has not been excluded from another university may apply to transfer
65% and Commerce students with an average of less than 63% to meet redress category to UCT as an LLB student but must satisfy the requirements for admission to the LLB on a
targets. competitive basis. Successful applicants may be granted credit or exemption or both for
courses already completed, up to a maximum of four full courses (or the equivalent).
Once students have completed their Humanities or Commerce degrees with law subjects, they
must apply to the Law Faculty for admission to the 2-year graduate LLB degree. Applicants Credits and exemptions will only be granted for courses taken at another institution if the Law
for the 2-year graduate LLB are considered and offered places on a competitive basis taking Faculty is satisfied that the courses are substantially equivalent, in both content and standard,
into account the UCT’s admissions policy. However, UCT applicants who achieve a cumulative to the courses offered at UCT. Such transferring students will be required to complete the
average of at least 60% in their undergraduate degree are guaranteed admission to the LLB. remaining courses prescribed for the LLB at UCT over a period of not less than two years.
ABOUT THE FACULTY
The Faculty of Science at UCT is, by various measures, the

best in the country: it has the largest number of scientists who
have been rated through a rigorous process of international
evaluation, and within this group it has the largest number
of those who are acknowledged to be world leaders in their
fields, and who hold an “A” rating. Thus, undergraduate and
postgraduate programmes benefit by being developed and
taught side by side with cutting-edge research. The Faculty
of Science offers an exciting suite of majors (details of which
follow), leading to the Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree. The
courses offered within the degree structure are characterised by
their coherence, a good balance between breadth and depth,
and their inter-disciplinary nature.
The degree is structured in such a way as to provide graduates

with the range of skills that the job market demands. In
addition, a variety of opportunities exist for postgraduate
study in all Departments; the BSc degree leads to Honours,
Master’s and Doctoral degrees. All degrees in the Faculty
of Science enjoy a high reputation in the private and public
sectors in South Africa, as well as internationally.
WHAT WE OFFER
The Faculty of Science offers one undergraduate degree, the

Bachelor of Science (BSc). Below are the possible majors available
in the faculty. While every BSc student will take 2 majors, it is
possible to take one approved major from a different faculty.
FACULTY OF SCIENCE
APPLIED MATHEMATICS Africa. Specific research interests include issues related to human evolution, the emergence
Applied mathematicians transfer mathematical knowledge and methods into other fields, of modern humans, and the history of hunter-gatherer, pastoralist and farming communities
such as Physics, Computer Science, Engineering, Biology and the Social Sciences. In this way in southern Africa, as well as the archaeology of more recent colonial settlement. Visit www.
mathematics has become one of the most powerful promoters of scientific developments, archaeology.uct.ac.za
since all modern sciences are founded essentially on mathematical principles. Many
technological developments such as mobile phones, computers, cars, airplanes and large ASTROPHYSICS
telescopes were unthinkable without mathematical progress. The Astrophysics major requires a strong mathematics and physics foundation. The astronomy
Visit www.math.uct.ac.za courses offered are general introductory first-year courses which includes the ‘Starfinder’
course held in the Iziko Planetarium as well as night-sky viewing. Second-year courses which
APPLIED STATISTICS cover nearly all aspects of modern observational astronomy. Two third-year courses enter
Applied Statistics at UCT straddles the fields of Statistics, Operational Research and Data into the physical processes that lie at the origin of the observed astronomical phenomena.
Science, covering a range of quantitative methods for the analysis of data to solve real- Visit www.ast.uct.ac.za
world problems and support decision making and policy development. The field of statistics
often attracts those interested in the analysis of patterns in data: developing, understanding, BIOLOGY
abstracting, and packaging analytical methods for general use in other subject areas. This major is about life on Earth in all its forms - the adaptations of living organisms, how
Statisticians are employed in many fields, including Biology, Finance, Economics, the they live and interact, and how they originated. With a focus on organismal biology, this
Engineering Industry, Medicine, Public Health, Psychology, Marketing, Government, major examines how organisms interrelate with each other and with their environment,
Education and Sport Science. Statisticians are key players in the analytics environment, using provides the processes by which organisms and communities are shaped, and how living
their skills to transform large amounts of data into credible, usable information. organisms affect and/or are affected by humans. This major aims to explain and account
Visit www.stats.uct.ac.za for the patterns that make up the diversity of terrestrial life that surrounds us. As human
influence on the environment escalates, there are new challenges as to how biodiversity
ARCHAEOLOGY can be protected while societies meet their needs. An understanding of organismal
(See Note 2 on page 75) biology is essential in order to comprehend the intricacies of living systems
The Department of Archaeology, taking and to predict the future under different global change scenarios. The
advantage of its location in a region rich in southern tip of Africa holds a treasure house of unusual plant and
archaeological heritage, with evidence animal communities alongside pressing human needs, which
of human occupation for the last half provides exciting and unique examples from which to learn about
million years, offers courses that focus ecology, evolution and biodiversity conservation. Visit www.
on the prehistory of Africa, with biologicalsciences.uct.ac.za
a particular focus on Southern

BIOCHEMISTRY the application of computers as tools in problem solving. The specific majors of Computer
Biochemistry is the study of the molecules and chemical processes which occur in all living Engineering & Business Computing are linked to the primary Computer Science major, and focus
organisms. Biochemistry is fundamental to understanding mechanisms in molecular and cell on the application of computer science to these particular fields. They will be complemented
biology, and straddles the medical, biological, chemical and physical sciences. The Biochemistry by courses in the related fields. Students who complete the BSc major in Computer Science,
major at UCT includes the study of the structures, physical properties and functions of proteins, followed by the BSc Honours in Computer Science at UCT, become Chartered I.T. Professionals
carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids; the mechanisms of enzyme action, the biochemical (UK), since these degrees are accredited by the British Computer Society as being of an
regulation of metabolism and energy utilization, and can include a more in-depth study of the international standard. Visit sit.uct.ac.za/our-degrees
molecular basis of cell signalling and gene expression, disease as well as biotechnology. Visit
www.mcb.uct.ac.za ENVIRONMENTAL & GEOGRAPHICAL SCIENCE
The interaction between humans and their environment and the variability of this environment
CHEMISTRY is a common theme in the department’s teaching and research initiatives. The student gains
Chemistry is often called the ‘central science’ because it forms the basis of every living and an integrated approach to the study of the complex relationships between humans and their
non-living entity in the universe. It has evolved from the time of the 16th century alchemist social, biological, and physical life-support systems. Interdisciplinary research areas within the
to the present-day chemist who uses advanced scientific and computational methods. It is the department include atmospheric science, climate-change science, quaternary environmental
interface between the mathematical, physical and biological sciences. Courses offered for this change, land degradation, integrated environmental management, urban issues, disaster
major cover the fundamental areas of organic, inorganic and physical chemistry. Theoretical risk science, developing world issues, sustainability studies, political geography and remote
concepts are underpinned by practical training in modern chemical techniques, including the sensing. Visit www.egs.uct.ac.za
use of state-of-the-art analytical instrumentation. The chemistry major offers a wide variety of
employment opportunities, from laboratory work to field work. GENETICS
Visit www.chemistry.uct.ac.za Students taking the major in Genetics will be taught fundamental concepts in classical,
molecular and evolutionary genetics. Classical genetics is the study of heritability and variation
COMPUTER SCIENCE, COMPUTER ENGINEERING & BUSINESS COMPUTING in living organisms, whilst molecular genetics is concerned with understanding the structure
A computer science graduate is trained in the principles underlying computing, including the and function of genes at the molecular level. Genomics considers the comparative study of
structure and nature of computers, the development and use of programming languages and genomes of living organisms. In the Genetics major, emphasis is placed on understanding the

provide an understanding of how the human
body functions, how we learn new behaviour
and how we change our behaviour. A series
of practical and tutorial sessions are designed
to develop technical skills, using computers
to record and analyse cardiac, skeletal muscle
and brain function, as well as improving oral
and writing skills.
MARINE BIOLOGY
Marine biology is the study of life in the sea in all its
aspects. The world’s oceans cover 71% of the surface of
the planet, and have a mean depth of 3 800m, meaning
that they make up well over 95% of the ‘living space’ on
earth. They are also the least known of the environments on
earth; indeed, an estimated half of all marine species have yet to
core biological processes of gene regulation and cell signalling in plants, animals and microbes, be discovered! Cape Town is one of the best locations in the world to
integrating this knowledge into our understanding of disease, development and evolution. study marine biology, as it is situated at the confluence of three of the world’s major oceans
Visit www.mcb.uct.ac.za – the Atlantic, Indian and Southern Oceans. Students taking this major will learn about the
diversity of marine life in all its forms and about the structure and function of various marine
GEOLOGY ecosystems, ranging from coral reefs to polar seas and from estuaries to the abyssal depths.
Geology is the science of the Earth’s origin, structure and composition. Geology is the basis Students also learn about management and conservation of marine resources, a field that
for understanding the Earth: how it evolved, what forces have shaped its oceans, mountains, provides the most employment opportunities for marine biologists. The courses include field
rivers and lakes, how and where its resources are stored, how it first became a pleasant place trips, tutorials and practical sessions that introduce students to the experimental and analytical
for humans to live and, more recently, how to manage and keep it so. Geology probes research methods used by professional marine biologists. Visit www.biologicalsciences.uct.ac.za
frontiers from mineral physics to the origin of life, from the evolution of planets to the climate
changes affecting our present environment. It is about mountain building, volcanoes, moving MATHEMATICS
continents, the death of the dinosaurs, diamonds and gold, soil erosion, earthquakes, and Mathematics is the science of structure, quantity, change, space and the interactions between
atoms in a crystal. Visit www.geology.uct.ac.za them. While mathematical ideas can be inspired by everyday observations, it is a characteristic
feature of mathematical truth that it is derived with logical reasoning on the basis of sound
HUMAN ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY definitions. Each day mathematicians all over the world prove hundreds of new theorems
The major in Human Anatomy & Physiology focuses on the structure and function of the and solve numerous open problems. In this way they contribute to the systematic body of
human body. The courses for this major start at second year level, and cover and integrate knowledge that comprises modern mathematics. Visit www.math.uct.ac.za
the traditional scientific disciplines of anatomy, cell biology and physiology. The second year
courses include the introduction to human anatomy, basic structure and function of cells, MATHEMATICAL STATISTICS
tissues, organs and systems, homeostasis, the cardio-vascular, respiratory, digestive, excretory, Mathematical Statistics is the study of the mathematical principles, theory and methods
immune, reproductive and locomotor systems as well as the regulatory endocrine and underpinning the interrogation and analysis of data. Statisticians contribute to scientific
nervous systems, and an introduction to ageing and disease. In third year there is a strong enquiry by applying their mathematical and statistical knowledge to the design of surveys
emphasis on metabolism and exercise physiology during the first semester and a focus on and experiments; the application of quantitative problem solving methods and the analysis
neurophysiology in the second semester. The Human Anatomy & Physiology major aims to of data. Statisticians are employed in many fields, including Biology, Finance, Economics, the

Engineering Industry, Medicine, Public Health, Psychology, Marketing, Government, Education PHYSICS
and Sport Science. Statisticians are key players in the analytics environment, using their data Physics is about understanding the nature of matter and radiation in the language of
science skills to transform large amounts of data into credible, usable information. mathematics, and as such is a central fundamental discipline in science. A major in physics
teaches you how to apply your knowledge of fundamental principles in a range of contexts.
Visit www.stats.uct.ac.za Applications of the principles of physics are everywhere: transistors, computers, optical fibres,
OCEAN & ATMOSPHERE SCIENCE quantum computing. Physicists discovered the structure of DNA and the genetic code, and
This major deals with the physical attributes of the oceans and covers the extent of the invented X-ray machines and the World Wide Web. Visit www.phy.uct.ac.za
oceans, the physical, chemical and biological properties of sea water, including salt and heat
budgets, sea surface fluxes and ocean climatology. The principal force on the ocean is from QUANTITATIVE BIOLOGY
the atmosphere and the response by the sea is to produce tides and many types of waves. This major is aimed at training biologists with quantitative skills, preparing them for the
Aspects of currents and water masses in the oceans of the world and coastal oceanography emerging fields of ‘Data Science’ and ‘Biological Modelling’, which are used to address big
around South Africa provide the focus of regional oceanography. Located in the subtropics, scientific questions. The Quantitative Biology major is packaged as an interdisciplinary stream,
South Africa experiences both tropical and mid-latitude influences on its weather, climate to allow students among three major disciplinary fields (Biology, Statistics and Mathematics)
and oceanic environments. The Ocean and Atmosphere Science major deals with the into the major, and for graduates taking this major to be prepared to enter into the Data
circulation and properties of the global ocean, their regional variations, and how the ocean Science and Quantitative Ecology fields. Visit www.biologicalsciences.uct.ac.za
interacts with the atmosphere to produce the various marine and atmospheric environments
we experience. ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
A fundamental knowledge of Ocean and Atmosphere Science is necessary for understanding NSC results are the primary guide for admission to the BSc degree. However, all applicants to
the distributions of the various marine and terrestrial ecosystems, climate change and the Science Faculty are required to write the NBTs (Academic Literacy, Quantitative Literacy and
variability, severe weather such as tropical cyclones and thunderstorms, as well as the Mathematics).
properties of the world oceans. The trans-disciplinary skills developed in this major offers
graduates opportunities to branch out into many other areas of Earth System Science or to ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR APPLICANTS HOLDING THE NATIONAL SENIOR
specialise in a field of Oceanography, Atmospheric Science or Climate up to a PhD level. UCT CERTIFICATE (NSC)
is ideally placed to offer such a major given our proximity to the world’s strongest western
boundary current (the Agulhas), a cold upwelling current system (the Benguela) and the Besides taking the NSC results into account for admission, other factors including, availability
highly dynamic Southern Ocean. Visit www.sea.uct.ac.za of places and educational or social/home background, will be considered.

FACULTY POINTS SCORE (FPS) PLACEMENT
The FPS (a score out of 800) is calculated as the sum of the percentages achieved in the best six Admission to the Science Faculty will be directly onto the regular, three-year degree
NSC subjects, including English but excluding Life Orientation, and doubling the percentages programme. All students will be required to write a set of formal class tests at mid-term of
achieved in Mathematics and Physical Science. Admission to the Faculty of Science requires a the first semester and on the basis of the results of these tests, together with NSC and NBT
minimum FPS of 550, but this does not guarantee admission. Refer to the table below. results, selected students will be counselled to convert to the four-year Extended Degree
Programme (EDP). The EDP is structured such that students entering the programme will
NOTE: most offers are made to applicants with points in the guaranteed admission band. receive additional academic and general support to improve the chances of graduating in
Subject entrance requirements minimum time.
• Mathematics at 70% or above
• Physical Science at 60% or above (refer to notes 2 and 3 below). The EDP is run in association with the Academic Development Programme (ADP) and offers
• Where an applicant has not completed Physical Science, Information Technology or Life students who are struggling the opportunity to establish a sound educational foundation,
Sciences may be doubled (refer to notes 2 and 3 below). with an appropriate distribution of their academic load over a four-year period. The minimum
time for a student on the EDP to complete the BSc degree is four years.
Guaranteed Admission
ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR APPLICANTS WITH NON-SOUTH AFRICAN
FPS of 660 or above SECONDARY SCHOOL-LEAVING CERTIFICATES
Band A Mathematics 70% or above and Physical Sciences 60% or above
FPS (see Notes 2 & 3)
NBTs in Mathematics, AL & QL to be written*
For applicants in possession of or writing other than South African qualifications, offers of
All applicants places may only be made subject to the equivalent bachelor’s exemption being obtained
Admission Very Likely from the South African Higher Education (Matriculation) Board
WPS of 640 or above (refer to mb.usaf.ac.za/exemption-process/ for further information and online
Band B
WPS Mathematics 70% or above and Physical Sciences 60% or above assessment and application).
(see Notes 2 & 3)
NBTs in Mathematics, AL & QL to be written* In addition, candidates must meet the following minimum requirements; meeting these
Admission Possible requirements does not guarantee admission which is limited by available capacity:
SA applicants FPS of 550 or above
in targeted Band C Mathematics 70% or above and Physical Sciences 60% or above
redress FPS (see Notes 2 & 3)
categories NBTs in Mathematics, AL & QL to be written*
* The results of the NBTs are not taken into account for admission to the Science Faculty
Note 1: Acceptance into the Science Faculty does not guarantee acceptance into a chosen major because
some majors (currently Biology Biochemistry, Genetics, Geology and Human Anatomy & Physiology) have
limits on the number of students that can be accommodated. Selection for these is based on academic
criteria which will be clearly communicated to students during the first year of study. Students will be
advised in their first year to take courses which could lead to several majors.
Note 2: If you have not completed Physical Sciences or Information Technology in your secondary
school-leaving examinations, your choice of major will be restricted to Archaeology and Environmental &
Geographical Science.
Note 3: For majors in Computer Science and Business Computing the Physical Science requirement may
be replaced by Information Technology (only where Physical Science was not taken).

APPLICANTS MUST TAKE AT LEAST: ENGLISH PROFICIENCY
English, Mathematics and Chemistry and/or Physics (or Physical Science) All international students for whom English is not a first/home language or have not passed
• Chemistry is required for majors in Biology, Marine Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, English at Grade 12, AS-level, IGCSE level or equivalent, must provide proof of English language
Genetics, Geology, Human Anatomy & Physiology and Ocean & Atmosphere Science proficiency.
• Physics is required for majors in Astrophysics, Physics and Computer Engineering Applicants are required to achieve one of the following:
• Chemistry/Physics may be replaced by Computer Science for majors in Computer Science, • A score of at least 51% for the Academic Literacy (AL) component of the National Benchmark
Business Computing, Computer Engineering and Computer Games Development only. Tests (NBTs)
• Chemistry/Physics may be replaced by Geography for the major in Environmental & • A pass in the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) with a score of at least 570 on the
Geographical Science paper-based test, or 230 on the computer-based test; or 88 on the internet-based test
• An overall band score of 7.0 (with no individual element of the test scoring below 6.0) on the
FACULTY POINTS SCORE (FPS) FOR NON NSC EXAMINATIONS International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• A score of 64 on the Pearson PTE Academic test.
Admission to the Faculty of Science requires an applicant to have achieved a FPS of 34 The tests must be taken at your own expense, before submitting an application. These are the
points or above, based on the five best subjects (including the required subjects), obtained minimum levels of English proficiency required for consideration for admission to UCT.
using the scoring table in the section of this prospectus titled “Applying to UCT”.
Applicants writing other international authority examinations will be assessed on their
individual merits. Transferring applicants are required to write the National Benchmark Test (NBT), submit certified
copies of secondary-leaving and tertiary transcripts of results and a letter of motivation in support
of the application, providing details of activities since leaving school and reasons for wanting to
CAIE transfer to the Faculty of Science. We have a limited number of academic places in the Faculty of
English: C at IGCSE level Science, so offers will be made to the best candidates in this category.
Mathematics: B at A/AS level
Physical Science (or Chemistry or Physics): C at A/AS level Transferring students are expected to have school-leaving and NBT results competitive with the
current applicant pool and must have:
• passed all first-year courses in their first year at another institution, and bring with them at
English: C at Ordinary Level
Mathematics: 70% (or level 1 Higher level) least four full courses (or the equivalent) that earn credit and exemption at UCT;
Bachelor Physical Science (or Chemistry or Physics): 60% • not been refused readmission by another tertiary institution; and
of Science (or level 1 Higher level) • not been registered at another tertiary institution for more than two years.
International Baccalaureate All students who transfer from other Universities must register for a minimum of two years for
English: Grade 5 at SL the BSc degree, and complete all the senior courses of their majors, at UCT.
Mathematics: Grade 5 at HL or Grade 6 at SL
(Maths Studies is not accepted) Note: Transferring of credits
Physical Science (or Chemistry or Physics): • UCT may give credit for, and/or exemption from, a maximum of four full courses (or the
Grade 5 at HL or Grade 6 SL
equivalent in half courses) completed elsewhere if these courses are recognised by UCT.
• It is the applicant’s responsibility to obtain, from the relevant UCT departments, signed approval
Note: Due to capacity constraints offers are unlikely to be made to applicants who only meet the of credit and exemption for the courses they wish to transfer, before their applications will be
minimum admission requirements.
considered.
• Senior major courses may not be transferred for credit or exemption.
• Tertiary courses required for matriculation exemption purposes will not be credited.

FIRST-TIER ACCOMMODATION of Rondebosch shopping area. The residence
First-tier residences provide accommodation can accommodate 382 students, with first-
STUDENT HOUSING for undergraduate men and women students,

who are usually under the age of 21. These
residences provide students with up to three
year students sharing double rooms. Most
returning and senior students are allocated
single rooms.
meals a day in a dining hall.
Staying in residence is an extension of your Tugwell Hall, on the Lower Campus, is
university education, and you can benefit from FIRST-TIER RESIDENCES FOR WOMEN a 1970s eleven-storey residence. It can
a range of facilities and services including PC Baxter Hall, on the Lower Campus, is located accommodate 406 students. and is located
labs, network connections, social and sporting near UCT’s swimming pool, gym and squash near UCT’s swimming pool, gym and squash
activities. courts. The Rondebosch shopping area is courts. First-year students share partitioned,
five minutes’ walk away. Baxter Hall can double rooms. Most returning students
ON-CAMPUS ACCOMMODATION accommodate 233 students in mainly single are accommodated in single rooms. The
rooms arranged in “flats” of three to six Rondebosch shopping area is five minutes’
UCT has a three-tier residence system that rooms. Each flat shares a bathroom. walk away.
provides different services, governance and
management in each tier. The policy and Fuller Hall, on the Upper Campus, is situated
criteria for admission to UCT student housing close to the main library, near Sarah Baartman
assume that a new student will initially enter a Hall and is near Upper Campus Residence. All
first-tier (catering) residence and subsequently Upper and Middle Campus venues are within
move to a second-tier (senior catering or walking distance.
self-catering) residence or into third-tier (semi-
autonomous self-catering) accommodation. Graça Machel Hall, on the Lower campus, is
This section gives some information on each located near to Baxter and Tugwell Halls, close
of these tiers, and the residence halls, flats or to the university swimming pool, gym and
houses within each tier. squash courts and is within walking distance
FIRST-TIER RESIDENCES FOR MEN Rochester House is a purpose-built residence situated just north of Groote Schuur Hospital
Carinus is situated behind Groote Schuur Hospital, and can accommodate 361 students and can accommodate 321 female and male students in single rooms. It has excellent on-site
in mainly single rooms. Students are able to travel by shuttle between the residence and facilities, including a swimming pool, computer lab and 24-hour security.
campuses.
Varietas in Matopo Road, off Rhodes Avenue, can accommodate 146 students. About half
College House was the first men’s residence in Southern Africa. The present building is the residents share rooms. Students take their meals at Avenue Road residence dining hall. The
situated on the Lower Campus in Main Road, Rosebank and can accommodate 119 students residence is situated on the periphery of the Main Campus, two shuttle-stops away from the
in single and double rooms. Meals are taken at Leo Marquard Hall next door. lecture halls. The hockey field lies adjacent to the residence and there is access to a swimming
pool in Forest Hill. Flats are either for male or female students. These are all served by the free
Kilindini, on the Lower Campus, can accommodate 32 students in single rooms. It is located shuttle bus.
on Main Road, Rosebank, close to College House, and about five minutes’ walk from Mowbray
shopping area. Kilindini students take their meals at Tugwell Hall.
CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION TO FIRST-TIER ACCOMMODATION
Kopano, on the Middle Campus, is located close to a variety of sports facilities including an Meeting some admission criteria may guarantee you an offer of residence, while meeting
all-weather soccer field, UCT’s cricket oval, swimming pool, gym and squash courts. It has others may make you eligible for an offer. The minimum criteria for admission to student
single rooms for 366 students. accommodation is that you must have:
a. applied for student housing in your UCT application, or amended your application to
Leo Marquard Hall, on the Lower Campus, is an eleven-storey residence. It is located near include an application for student housing no later than 31 July 2023;
UCT’s swimming pool, gym and squash courts. This 1970s residence can accommodate 419 b. been made an offer (conditional or firm) of admission, at any time, for the 2024 academic
students. First year students share partitioned double rooms. Most returning students are year.
accommodated in single rooms.
Please visit uct.ac.za/dsa/student-housing-applying-residence/new-applications for more
Upper Campus Residence is situated on the Upper Campus, near to Fuller Hall. It can information about criteria for admission to first-tier student accommodation.
accommodate 235 students, mostly in single rooms and a small number in inter-leading
rooms. It provides easy access to the Library, Students’ Union and all the departments based
on the Upper Campus. Students take their meals in Fuller Hall. SECOND-TIER ACCOMMODATION
Second tier accommodation is a largely self-catering sector, with some catering options,
University House can accommodate 84 students. There are six residential buildings and generally for more senior undergraduate and postgraduate students . All rooms in Second Tier
meals are taken in the Avenue Road residence dining hall. Situated off Rhodes Avenue, the residences are single. Most of the Second Tier residences are 2–4 bedroom flats.
residence is within easy walking distance of the Upper Campus and Mowbray shopping area.
SECOND-TIER CATERING
FIRST-TIER RESIDENCES FOR BOTH WOMEN & MEN Groote Schuur Residence is a mixed-gender residence and can accommodate 64 students,
Avenue Road Residence is a new state of the art residence which has been awarded “Green with men and women on separate floors. During term times, breakfast and supper are served
status”. It can accommodate 550 students in single and double rooms. Situated off Rhodes at the residence and lunch at Leo Marquard Hall.
Avenue, the residence is within easy walking distance of the Upper Campus and Mowbray
shopping area. Medical Residence can accommodate 103 male and female students who are usually clinical
year medical students.
Glendower Residence (Glenres) can accommodate 138 residents. It is situated on the Lower
Campus in Main Road, Rosebank, less than five minutes’ walk from the Mowbray shopping Forest Hill G-Block can accommodate 120 students in flats, it is situated at the back of the
area. Students take their meals at Tugwell Hall. There are separate facilities for male and Forest Hill complex located in Mowbray. G block residents take their meals at University House.
female students.

SECOND-TIER SELF-CATERING UCT SHUTTLE SERVICE
Groote Schuur Flats can accommodate 64 students in Main Road, Rondebosch, is close to The UCT shuttle service is for the sole use of UCT staff and students. A scheduled service is
supermarkets and other shops and within easy walking distance of the Upper Campus. available 7 days a week, during term times and vacation, and includes a late-night service.
It operates between all campuses, most residences, and local public transport terminals, so
Liesbeeck Gardens can accommodate 434 students in mainly two- and three-bedroom flats. you can connect from train and bus or park ‘n ride. The UCT shuttle service is free to all
Situated on Liesbeeck Parkway, Mowbray. A free shuttle service operates on weekdays and UCT students. Just show your valid student card when getting on. Timetables are available
weekends. from the Traffic Office, Visitors Reception and Information Centre or on the UCT website via
the Staff and Student Portal. For more information contact the Transport Administrator at -
The Woolsack is on Middle Campus and can accommodate 206 male and female students. Tel: +27 (0)21 685 7135
Accommodation is arranged in pavilions or courts with an average of 25 students in each.
TRANSFERRING FROM ONE RESIDENCE TO ANOTHER DURING THE ACADEMIC YEAR
Forest Hill is a large complex off Main Road, Mowbray. It is made up of five separate blocks Residence transfers/swops will only be considered if it is a request from a catering or self-
of flats which can accommodate 822 students. catering option to the other, motivation on medical grounds and seeking a cheaper room rate.
These requests require the approval from the wardens concerned.
Obz Square is both a second and third tier residence, it is situated on the Main Road,
Observatory, it is the latest addition to UCT residence system and it can accommodate 880 OFF-CAMPUS ACCOMMODATION
senior and postgraduate students in en-suite rooms. Eight to ten students share a kitchen. The Many students in their second or subsequent years of study stay in leased or private
complex is close to most shops and the Faculty of Health Sciences. accommodation close to UCT. Our Off Campus Student Accommodation Services advertises
vacancies in private accommodation.
THIRD-TIER ACCOMMODATION
Third-tier residences provide accommodation for post-graduate students. They also provide Details of vacancies can be obtained at: uct.ac.za/dsa/student-housing-campus-student-
limited family accommodation for postgraduate students. accommodation-services-ocsas/about-ocsas
or at the Off Campus Student Accommodation Services - Tel: +27 (0)21 650 4934.
LIVING IN RESIDENCE
All student rooms in residences, houses and flats are equipped with basic furniture – a bed,
cupboard, desk, chair, bookcase, wastepaper bin, curtains and notice board. No sheets,
blankets, pillows or towels are provided. Catering residences prepare three meals per day in a APPLYING FOR STUDENT HOUSING
dining hall. Students choose a meal plan. Students are expected to provide and launder their If you wish to be considered for a place in student housing, you must apply when submitting
own bed linen, and clean their own rooms. Vacuum cleaners and other cleaning materials an online application, or a paper application. You must apply by 31 July 2023.
are provided. No cooking is permitted in bedrooms. Students in self-catering accommodation
have access to a fridge and stove, but need their own cooking utensils and crockery. If your conditional offer is not confirmed by a faculty (ie. if you do not meet the conditions of
your offer), your student housing application is automatically cancelled.
SHARING A ROOM IN RESIDENCE
Half of all first-year students in catering residences are accommodated in double rooms. It ALLOCATION TO SPECIFIC RESIDENCES, HOUSES OR FLATS
may be possible for you to share a room with a friend who has been accepted into the same All offers of student housing places will be made in terms of the student housing admissions and
residence. The warden of your allocated residence should be informed in advance of your residence allocation policy. Please consult the Student Housing webpage on the UCT website for
arrival. If you or your roommate decides that you would prefer to share a room with someone details of the 2022- 2026 allocation policy, visit:
else in the same residence, talk to your warden or sub-warden, who will, where possible, make www.uct.ac.za/sites/default/files/content_migration/uct_ac_za/39/files/RES_Policy_Student_
arrangements suitable to all. Normally room changes are only allowed in March to allow for Housing_Admission_2022-2026.pdf
settling in and to help avoid confusion in the room allocation process.
SPORT & RECREATION
SPORTS, STUDENT UCT provides many opportunities for you to participate in sports or physical recreation of your choice. Traditional
sports are all well catered for, but you also have the option of exciting individual pursuits such as sailing, water
SOCIETIES skiing and scuba diving.
Our Sport & Recreation Department provides for all levels of sport from social programmes through to high
& STUDENT performance sport. UCT has a proud record of achievement both in the local Western Province leagues and at
the national Student Tournaments. Year after year, UCT has produced a number of sports people who achieve
the highest honour of representing South Africa. For more information,
GOVERNANCE visit www.dsa.uct.ac.za/student-development/sport-clubs/overview
Sports development and transformation are taken very seriously at UCT. Our students are actively engaged in
promoting sport in the local communities and within their clubs on campus. Every club welcomes new members
from novices to the more experienced athletes, and the clubs are equipped to deal with the needs of each
individual. Most clubs engage the services of top-level coaches, many of whom coach at provincial level.
Sports facilities include an artificial hockey field, an indoor sports complex, and excellent tennis, squash, soccer,
rugby, cricket and fitness centre facilities. Our rowing club is one of the better equipped university clubs in South
Africa. In addition, UCT owns a mountain near Ceres, a L26 Keelboat, sailing dinghies, and a wakeboard boat.

SPORTS SCHOLARSHIPS & BURSARIES tutoring for high school learners, as well as junior projects in literacy, arts, and sport for primary
With an excellent record in a wide variety of sports, UCT is keen to continue attracting top school learners. Students also run social enterprise projects for adults starting businesses.
sports people to the campus. If you have played provincial or national representative sport at
any level, you could be eligible for a Sporting Scholarship to assist in financing your studies at SHAWCO Health operates mobile community health clinics with the Faculty of Health Science
UCT. Eligible applicants need to apply to the Sports & Recreation Department to be considered student volunteers that offer practical clinical experience to the students and gives vital health
for these awards. For information and application forms, contact [email protected] services to poor communities.
STUDENT SOCIETIES SHAWCO’s mission is to practice and promote responsible citizenship in the South African
context through health, education and social entrepreneurship initiatives. The organisation
At UCT a number of societies cater for cultural, religious and special interests. seeks to create a supportive space for experiential learning and teaching, addressing inequality
through innovative and sustainable approaches to community engagement. To learn more
These are outside of the formal academic programme and are open to all registered students. about SHAWCO, visit www.shawco.org
Societies’ activities are directed by students, and there are many opportunities to get involved
at an organisational level. Through such activities you will develop valuable skills in leadership UCT RAG (Remember and Give) is the student fundraising sector of SHAWCO. RAG volunteers
and organisation. Listed on page 82 are societies at UCT. For more information, organise a number of student and corporate fundraising events throughout the year, with all
visit uct.ac.za/dsa/student-development-student-societies-organisations/overview the proceeds going to SHAWCO. To learn more about RAG, visit www.rag.uct.ac.za
STUDENTS’ REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL UBUNYE is a student run development agency operating on campus as an SRC-recognised
THE STUDENTS’ REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL (SRC) is a statutory structure consisting of 15 body, providing a range of opportunities for student social engagement.
members who are elected annually in a general UCT-wide election. The SRC represents the
interests of students at UCT, and does this through active participation in UCT committees as GREEN CAMPUS INITIATIVE (GCI) focusses on environmental sustainability activities
well as through a range of programmes and projects. on campus and beyond. GCI provides workshops, sustainability programmes looking at
waste management, recycling and transport amongst others. To learn more about GCI,
As the highest student governance decision-making structure, the SRC also co-ordinates visit www.facebook.com/uct.gci
the work of student structures such as, clubs, societies, student faculty councils, residence
committees, development agencies and student organisations. Given the wide choice of UCT RADIO is a campus-community station staffed by fellow students and teaching a wide range
student clubs, societies, and other governance structures, there is literally something to capture of broadcasting and media skills. Our focus is news, music and entertainment based on UCT
the interest of everyone. In this regard you will have a host of opportunities to continue campus culture. If you’d like to know more visit us at www.radio.uct.ac.za or check out our social
activities you already have an interest in, or to get involved in something new. With media pages on FB, Twitter and IG.
several hundred students joining societies each year, you are assured of meeting
other students with similar interests. For more information contact the VARSITY is the official student-run news source at UCT. Established
DSA Helpdesk on Level 4, Steve Biko Students Union or +27 (0)21 650 in 1942, Varsity has grown into a creative and multimedia
3541. For more information, visit www.src.uct.ac.za developmental agency. Producing new content every
Tuesday, the publication alternates between its print
DEVELOPMENT AGENCIES newspaper and website. The online presence spans
SHAWCO, the Students’ Health and Welfare Centres various social media platforms such as Twitter,
Organisation, is a student-run youth development and Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Read Varsity
health NGO affiliated to UCT. Students from UCT and online: varsitynewspaper.co.za
abroad, voluteer in projects ranging from after school

SPORTS ON
CLUBS & SOCIETIES AT UCT OFFER
Apostolic Faith Church of Cardiac Society Institute of Electrical & Electronics Space and Astronomy Aikido
Portland Oregon Chabad UCT Engineers Internal medicine Association Archery
Abantu Zambian Society Christian Medical Fellowship Investment Society Student Christian Fellowship Athletics
ACTS Kolbe Catholic Society Christian Revival Church Jubilee Society Student Psychiatry society Badminton
African Students for Liberty Christians on Campus Korean Student Association Student YMCA Basketball
Altum Sonatur Church On Main Leanin Students for a Free Tibet UCT Canoeing
Amnesty International Cortex Club Lesotho Students’ Association Students for Law and Social Justice Capoeira
Art of Living – Hartha Yoga Society Crypto currency Malawi Students Society Students for Life Chess
Asian Students Association Debating Union Moot Society Surgical Society Cricket
Association of Black Securities and Deeper Life Campus Fellowship Muslim Students’ Association Swazi Students Society Fitness centre
Investment Professionals Democratic Alliance Students’ Muslim Youth Movement TEDxUCT Cycling
Association of Built Environment Organisation Namibian Students’ Organization The Collective Fencing
Student DJ’s Production Society Nazareth Tertiary Student’s The Twelve Apostle Church in Christ Golf
Association of SA Black Actuaries DR Congo Association Thinking Club Gymnastics
Ballroom Dancing East African Students Society Nigerian Students’ Society Trees of Life Multiracial Church Hockey
Believers Loveworld Economic Freedom Fighters Organisational Psychology Students’ Tsonga society Ju jitsu
Bhakti Yoga Society Student Command Society Paediatrics society Ubunye Karate
Biological Society EDU Student Organisation Palestine Solidarity Forum UCT African Choral Kickboxing
Biomimicry Society Effective Altruism Pan Africanist Student Movement UCT Baha’i Society Mountain & ski
Birding UCT Enactus of Azania Photographic Society UCT Choir Netball
Black Law Students’ Forum Engineers Without Borders Poetry UCT Consulting Club Rowing
Black Lawyer’s Association Fashion Society Preclinical society UCT Developers’ Society Rugby
Black Management Forum Film Society Psychology Society UCT Entrepreneur’s Society Soccer
Businesswomen’s Association Gender & Sex Project RAG UCT Marketing Association Squash
Student Chapter Genshiken Rainbow Organisation UCT Mathematics society Supa pool
Cape Legion of Adventurers Ghana Society RAPHA Church UCT Radio Surfing
and War Gamers Golden Future Project REACH Society United Nations Association of Table tennis
Cape Town Globalist Grace Bible Church Redeemed Christian Fellowship South Africa Vegilicious Taekwondo
Green Campus Initiative Rural Support Network We Are Animals Tennis
Habitat for Humanity Seventh Day Adventist Wine and Cultural Society Tai chi
Hellenic Students’ Association Movement Winners Camp Fellowship Ultimate frisbee
Her Campus Initiative SHAWCO Education Women in computer Science Underwater hockey
Hillsong Church SHAWCO Health Women in Property Network Volleyball
Hindu Students’ Society Shofar Church World Mission Society Water polo
Hip Hop Club South African Medical Students’ (Church of God) Water-skiing
His People Association South African Zimbabwe Society Yachting
Human Upliftment Project students’ congress Zion Christian Students’
Ikey Ability South African Union of Jewish Fellowship
InkuluFreeHeid Students
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
There are various ways that you can study as an international selectors in the relevant discipline who will pay particular
student at UCT. The International Academic Programmes attention to your academic record and courses already taken
Office (IAPO) supports international students and researchers towards your home university degree.
by issuing letters in support of visa applications, advising
on immigration-related requirements, and advocating for SSA students pay a semester package fee covering tuition,
students’ visa challenges. IAPO also advises students on orientation activities and membership of 3 student clubs
international tuition and housing fees, the costs of living and societies. Students receive comprehensive pre-arrival
in Cape Town, and support services available to students. information and assistance in finding suitable accommodation
Before you start your Semester Study Abroad Exchange (SSA) close to campus.
or full-degree programme, IAPO will provide comprehensive
information and a dedicated orientation programme to Students on the programme have an opportunity to
welcome you to UCT. Queries about academic qualifications join student societies and clubs, and to participate in
and specific course requirements should be directed to the the community service and volunteering programmes
relevant faculty office. run by SHAWCO (a community partnership and social
entrepreneurship organization affiliated with UCT).
SEMESTER STUDY ABROAD EXCHANGE (SSA)
STUDENTS
UCT offers a vibrant study abroad programme for students APPLICATION DEADLINES:
wanting to spend one or two semesters experiencing life
in Cape Town while completing a degree elsewhere. SSA For First Semester (February – June):
students are taught alongside other UCT students and are 31 October prior to the year of study.
fully integrated into academic and social life at UCT.
For Second Semester (July – November):
To be accepted to the SSA programme, you must: be a 30 April of the year of study
current student of a higher education institute outside
South Africa, be of good academic standing at your home Apply online at applyonline.uct.ac.za
university, have a grade point average of 65% in your current
studies (this is 3.0 for academic systems using the 4.0 scale It can take up to eight weeks to obtain a
or an upper range ‘B’ on the ECTS scale), have completed South African study visa, early applications are
three semesters towards your degree, have met UCT’s encouraged.
English language admission requirements (see page 18).
For further information, contact the:
The programme offers a wide range of courses and students International Academic Programmes Office
can select from subjects established in the Faculties of Tel: +27 (0)21 650 2822
Commerce, Engineering & the Built Environment, Humanities, Email: [email protected]
Law and Science.
Website: www.uct.ac.za/studyabroad
Applications for course admission are assessed by academic

FULL-DEGREE INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
include CAIE, NSSC and ZIMSEC examinations, the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, and
UCT considers suitably qualified international applicants who wish to study for a full undergraduate the Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE). Applicants who have written only
degree programme. the IGCSE level or equivalent examination, and who are not writing any other secondary school-
leaving examination, are not eligible for admission to UCT. If you are writing a foreign secondary
SADC STUDENTS school-leaving qualification, your application to UCT will be assessed individually.
The Southern African Development Community countries are: Angola, Botswana, Democratic
Republic of Congo, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The minimum initial fee payment for English is used both for teaching and for examinations at UCT. All applicants must show evidence of
academic and residence fees plus the non-refundable Administrative Fee must be paid prior to proficiency in English and must submit evidence of this as part of their application to study at UCT.
registration or entering student accommodation. No international levy (International Term Fee) will The English Language admission requirements can be found on page 18.
be charged.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
NON-SADC STUDENTS UCT does not offer bursaries/scholarships to international undergraduate applicants.
As an international student (non-SADC) coming to UCT, you will be charged an international levy, American citizens undertaking full degree studies may apply for US Federal Aid (Direct Loans)
called the International Term Fee (per annum), and the non-refundable Administrative Fee, in via IAPO. UCT is also an accredited institution for Canadian Federal Aid. Direct enquiries to
addition to the individual fees for all courses taken. The International Term Fee, the Administrative [email protected]
Fee plus the individual course fees must be paid prior to registration.
The MasterCard Foundation Scholarship is available to citizens of a Sub-Saharan African country. For
MATRICULATION EXEMPTION further information on the scholarships please access www.mcfsp.uct.ac.za
If you wish to study at UCT and you are writing or have written a foreign secondary school-leaving E-mail: [email protected] Tel: +27 (0)21 650 5923 / 3601
examination, you will need to obtain a matriculation exemption certificate from the Matriculation
Board. Before making you an offer, the faculty will ensure that you are eligible for matriculation STUDY VISAS
exemption. Once you have been registered but before the end of your first year, you will need to In terms of the Immigration Act No. 13 of 2002, if you are resident outside of South Africa and are
apply through your faculty office to the Matriculation Board for a certificate of exemption. not a South African citizen or do not have permanent residence, you are required to obtain a study
visa to enter the Republic of South Africa for the purpose of attending UCT. It is important that your
To apply take the prescribed form, your original school leaving certificate (the faculty will visa is endorsed specifically for study at UCT.
make a certified copy for the Matriculation Board) and the prescribed fee (made out to the
Matriculation Board) to the Faculty Office who will submit your application to the Matriculation If you hold refugee or asylum seeker status issued by the South African Government you are exempt
Board.Details of fees payable and the form are available on the Matriculation Board website from needing a study visa to attend UCT, however, you are required to produce a valid South African
at mb.usaf.ac.za. The onus remains on you, as a student, to check that the faculty office has Government issued refugee or asylum seeker permit. The offer of a study place by UCT does not
received your certificate from the Matriculation Board. Enquiries about certificates of exemption bind the Department of Home Affairs in any way to allow you to study in South Africa, nor does it
should be addressed to the: remove the need for you to obtain permission to enter the country. If you are offered a study place,
Universities South Africa, please apply immediately for a study visa. You can apply for a study visa with a conditional study
P O Box 27392, Sunnyside, Pretoria, 0132 place offer or a firm study place offer. Your application must be made to the nearest South African
Tel: +27 (0)10 591 4401/2 Fax: +27 (0)86 680 5727 Embassy, Consulate or High Commission in your home country. This procedure could take from
Website: mb.usaf.ac.za 8 to 12 weeks or longer to be processed, so apply without delay. The application form BI-1738, duly
completed, must be accompanied by the following:
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLICANTS WITH FOREIGN SECONDARY (a) valid passport
SCHOOL-LEAVING EXAMINATIONS (b) a fee (current details are available from the nearest South African Embassy, Consulate or High
To be considered for admission, applicants must qualify for a matriculation exemption from the Commission)
Matriculation Board, and must meet certain minimum faculty entry requirements. Some of the more (c) an official letter from UCT confirming provisional or firm acceptance at the institution and the
common foreign secondary school-leaving examinations submitted by international applicants duration of the course

(d) letter of undertaking from UCT in support of the study visa application Other requirements as may be prescribed by the Consulate/Embassy Requirements may change
(e) in the case of a person under the age of 21 years. and we thus recommend that you contact the nearest South African Consulate/Embassy before
(i) the particulars of the person in the Republic of South Africa who will act as that learner’s submitting your study visa application in order to find out about the required documents. You
guardian and a confirmatory letter from that intended guardian; and should await the outcome of your application before making any travel arrangements to South
(ii) proof of consent for the intended stay from both parents or from the custodian parent, Africa. If you have studied at another South African University or attended high school in South
along with proof of sole custody in the latter case Africa, then your study visa needs to be changed for studies at UCT. It is very important that your
(f) a police clearance certificate study visa is valid for studies at UCT.
(g) affidavit confirming conditions of existing visa have been upheld for those renewing a
previous study visa for South Africa The Department of Home Affairs has officially outsourced the submission of applications to
(h) medical and radiological reports a company called Visa Facilitation Services (VFS). Applications accepted for processing by the
(i) documents relating to marital status if applicable relevant VFS office are then forwarded to the Department of Home Affairs for adjudication.
(j) a yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or Once the application has been finalised, the Department of Home Affairs will issue an outcome
through a yellow fever endemic area to the VFS office where the application was submitted. Application forms are completed online
(k) in the case of a foreign state accepting responsibility for the applicant in terms of a bilateral but submitted in hardcopy and in person at the VFS Office.
agreement, a written undertaking in respect of the departure of the applicant
(l) proof of medical cover from a South African medical aid scheme, registered in terms of the The online application process is located at visa.vfsglobal.com/zaf/en/dha/apply-visa. The list of
Medical Schemes Act, 1998 (Act No. 131 of 1998). The duration of your medical aid cover must requirements for new and renewal applications can be found at
align with the duration of your study offer; renewed annually for each year of study and be uct.ac.za/international/student-support/visas-immigration.
valid for the full year, ending on 31 December (for full degree programmes).
(m) proof of sufficient financial means Please note that you may NOT take up studies at UCT with a study visa issued for another institution.
(n) payment of a deposit: Provided that such deposit shall be refunded to the depositor after the The onus is on you to make sure that your study visa is valid for the duration of your studies at UCT.
final departure of the applicant or after a permit contemplated in section 25 of the Act has
been issued to the applicant: Provided further that the payment of the deposit may be effected
by means of a bank guaranteed cheque or credit card at places where such facility exists. PRE-REGISTRATION FOR IMMIGRATION AND FEES CLEARANCE
(o) in the case of students from Africa, the payment of the deposit shall not be required: Provided
that the Government of the relevant African country submits a written undertaking to pay all Pre-registration is the administrative process for verifying you have the required immigration
costs relating to the deportation of the student, should this become necessary. documents to study in South Africa and that your academic fees have cleared into the UCT bank
(p) other requirements as may be prescribed by the Consulate/ Embassy. In the case of a account before registration.
foreign state accepting responsibility for the applicant in terms of a bilateral agreement, a
written undertaking from such foreign state to pay for the departure of the applicant. INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS must report to IAPO for immigration and fees clearance before
In the case of a learner under the age of 18 years: proceeding to academic registration. You will need the following documents:
(i) an unabridged birth certificate • valid passport
(ii) valid passport • study visa endorsed for study at UCT
(iii) proof of physical address and contact number of the adult person residing in the • medical aid cover from a medical aid scheme registered in South Africa and valid for the full
Republic, who is acting or has accepted to act as such learner’s guardian, including a duration of your study visa
confirmatory letter from that guardian; and • proof that you have paid the minimum initial academic fee (and residence fee where applicable)
(iv) proof of consent for the intended stay from both parents, or where applicable, from
the parent or legal guardian who has been issued with a court order granting full or For more information, contact: International Academic Programmes Office
specific parental responsibilities and rights or legal guardianship of the learner. Tel: +27 (0)21 650 2822
Website: www. international.uct.ac.za/

TUITION FEES & RESIDENCE COSTS
UCT publishes a booklet, which is updated every year, giving R31 000). For residence costs, the initial payment in 2023 RESIDENCE COSTS
the fee for each academic course and accommodation 2023 was R39 000 for catering residences or R26 000 Fees for 2024 for UCT’s residences, houses and flats will be
in different types of student housing. UCT uses a course- for self-catering. For SADC applicants an international determined in November 2023. About 40% of the total fee for
based fee structure. The fee booklet, together with the administrative fee of R4 700 was payable prior to 2023 must be paid to UCT before the start of the academic year.
relevant Faculty handbook, will enable students to calculate registration. The balance must be paid by the end of June 2023.
the cost of their academic studies at UCT.
For more information, please contact the Fees Office or The average charge for a single room in a first-tier residence
The Faculty handbook will indicate the courses that can be visit the UCT website. is R74 350 in 2023. If the meal option of 3 meals each day is
taken in pursuing a programme of study and the relevant added, the charge is R105 850.
course code. Use this code to look up the all-inclusive cost Bachelor of Commerce and R72 680 - R93 850
of the course in the fee booklet. The sum of these costs Bachelor of Business Science R74 720 - R102 470 Students have a choice of four meal options. The cost of the
will give you the total cost for the set of chosen courses. Bachelor of Business Science Actuarial meal option is not included in the residence fee. The chosen meal
R93 850
Science option must be added to the residence fee.
There are no levies. Faculty handbook information Bachelor of Architectural Studies R78 330
is available on the UCT website: www.uct.ac.za MEAL OPTIONS AT 2023 PRICES ARE:
Bachelor of Science (Construction Studies) R80 730 Add the cost of your selected
You can obtain a Fees booklet at
uct.ac.za/students/fees-funding-fees/fees-handbook Bachelor of Science (Property Studies) R78 800
MEAL OPTION 1 (BLD): 3 MEALS PER DAY FOR SEVEN DAYS PER WEEK
Bachelor of Science (Geomatics) R66 260
First Tier R31 500
TUITION FEES Bachelor of Science (Engineering) R66 260 - R80 730
Groote Schuur and Forest Hill G R34 100
The table below lists fees in 2023 for a “typical” first Bachelor of Medicine and
R98 010 Health Sciences R37 700
year undergraduate degree programme for South African Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB)
applicants. It will give you an idea of what the fees are Bachelor of Science (Audiology) R82 930 MEAL OPTION 2 (LAD): LUNCH AND DINNER SEVEN DAYS PER WEEK
likely to be in 2024. Actual 2024 fees will be published on
Bachelor of Science
First Tier R23 500
UCT’s website towards the end of 2023. R83 660
(Speech-Language Pathology) Groote Schuur and Forest Hill G R25 800
PAYMENT OF FEES Bachelor of Science (Occupational Therapy) R76 350 Health Sciences R28 300
Full details of tuition and accommodation fees are sent MEAL OPTION 3 (BAD): BREAKFAST AND DINNER SEVEN DAYS PER
Bachelor of Science (Physiotherapy) R72 520
to students before registration, as well as dates by when
payment must be made. A variety of payment methods Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Social First Tier R21 300
R68 300
Science
are available. An initial payment for both tuition fees Groote Schuur and Forest Hill G R23 100
and student accommodation must be made before Bachelor of Arts (Fine Art) R76 100 Health Sciences R25 500
registration. So, for example, for 2023 the initial payment
Bachelor of Music R64 700 - R67 700 MEAL OPTION 4 (MOW): 3 MEALS PER DAY, WEEK DAYS
was due by Friday, 03 February 2023 and the balance of Bachelor of Music Education R64 700 - R68 800
the fees by 30 June 2023. First Tier R23 840
Bachelor of Arts (Theatre and Performance) R95 000
Groote Schuur and Forest Hill G R24 700
For tuition costs the initial payment in 2023 was Bachelor of Laws (LLB) R69 410
Health Sciences R27 600
R31 000 (or the full fee, where the full fee was less than Bachelor of Science R74 500

As a student, you will find that careful financial APPLYING FOR FINANCIAL AID
planning and management is essential. This is even
more important if you are meeting the cost of studying As of 1 August 2016, the National Student Financial
yourself, or if you are studying away from home. When Aid Scheme (NSFAS) opened its student-centred
FUNDING
your personal expenses, accommodation and travel are application model. First-time applications for financial
included, a single year at UCT can cost over R100 000. aid, as well as funding renewal for those students
A significant number of students fund their studies who are already recipients of NSFAS funding, will be
YOUR STUDIES
through a combination of scholarships, bursaries (either handled centrally via NSFAS. Although applicants may
administered by UCT or by organisations outside UCT), have applied to multiple institutions for admission to
loans, help from parents, sponsorship by companies, study, only one financial aid application directly to
and through part-time and vacation work. NSFAS will be required. All students and learners who
need financial assistance should apply to NSFAS via the
Most prospective students have concerns about funding. There are three kinds of financial support available to latter’s online application system. NSFAS also accepts
Coming to UCT may be your first experience away from South African students: entrance scholarships; sports paper applications via the National Youth Development
scholarships; and financial assistance packages. We Agency (NYDA) offices.
home, and it is natural to wonder how you will manage.
encourage you to explore all of these possibilities.
For instance, although you may obtain an entrance It is important to check the NSFAS website and their
We understand your financial concerns and in this or sports scholarship from UCT, you can still apply social media for details of when applications open
section we provide some information on sources of for other funding, including need-based financial and for submission of applications. Ensure that you
funding and guidelines on how to finance your studies. assistance from UCT. application is submitted before the closing date.

If you think you may need VICE-CHANCELLOR’S SCHOLARSHIPS: These scholarships may be offered to:
to be assisted financially, our • The top ten achievers, in grade 12 of the year of the Olympiad, in each of the Mathematics
advice is to submit a completed Olympiad, Computer Science Olympiad and English Olympiad - Home Language, provided
financial aid application to NSFAS, they applied for admission to UCT and are awarded a place to study at UCT.
since late applications will not be • The winners of the Computer Applications Olympiad and the English Olympiad - First
accepted. In addition, you can apply Additional Language, provided they are in grade 12 of the year of the Olympiad and that
to other sponsors and funders. You they applied for admission to UCT and are awarded a place to study at UCT.
should not wait for the outcome of one • Any of the Top 10 NSC achievers in the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) who
application before applying for another. applied for admission to UCT.
Application closing dates are strictly adhered • Any of the top 15 achievers in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) final examinations (but
to by all funders. Funders, like NSFAS, close their excluding candidates from schools in the Western Cape) administered by the Department of
applications for funding before you are likely to Basic Education, who applied for admission to UCT.
receive information from a University on your academic • Any of the Top 5 NSC achievers from the Independent Examination Board (IEB), who applied
application. Its is vital that you apply for funding even if you for admission to UCT.
don’t have an academic offer yet.
NOTE: UCT Council has determined that students who qualify for both a tuition fee at the staff
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR SCHOOL-LEAVERS tuition rate, and UCT-funded scholarships (entrance, faculty, VC, Achievement), will have their
scholarship adjusted equivalent to the staff tuition rate percentage.
Each year, UCT allocates over R8 million as entrance scholarships to school-leavers who are
coming to study at UCT for the first time. South African citizens and permanent residents are FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
eligible for these awards. The awards range from R20 000 to R100 000. No application for a UCT NSFAS and UCT try to assist as many financially needy students as possible, subject to available
entrance scholarship is necessary. Entrance scholarships are for the first year after which students funds. Applicants are assessed, and the minimum criteria for eligibility are:
are eligible for consideration for a faculty scholarship. Each faculty specifies academic criteria that • financial need studying for a first undergraduate qualification that is funded
you need to meet in order to be eligible for a faculty scholarship in subsequent years. • be a South African citizen or a permanent resident of South Africa
UCT’s entrance scholarships are for students who show academic potential. Entrance scholarship APPLYING FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
offers are based on considerations of how UCT wishes to constitute its new undergraduate class. NOTE: Applying for financial assistance will have no impact on your chances of being admitted
for study at UCT.
This does mean that UCT is not able to make offers to each of the many deserving cases that we
consider, nor do we guarantee entrance scholarships on the basis of secondary school academic HOW DO I APPLY? All applications for financial aid and NSFAS funding will be managed
performance. Secondary school-leaving applicants are considered for the following entrance centrally by NSFAS for all higher education institutions. You can apply online at nsfas.org.za/
scholarships:
WILL MY APPLICATION FOR FINANCIAL AID AFFECT MY CHANCES OF ACADEMIC
ENTRANCE SCHOLARSHIPS: Each faculty has its own criteria against which school-leavers are ADMISSION? NO. Your application for admission is not related to your application for
considered for the award of an entrance scholarship. No application is necessary applicants are financial assistance. These are separate and independent processes. However, if you are eligible
automatically considered. Criteria for entrance scholarship for holders of the National Senior for financial assistance the assistance is subject to academic admission and registration at UCT.
Certificate are available at www.uct.ac.za/dsa/student-funding-administration-scholarships/
entrance-scholarships IS THERE A DEADLINE FOR MY APPLICATION FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE?
YES. NSFAS has an application window. Ensure that you check for the application opening and
SPORTS SCHOLARSHIPS: These scholarships are available to applicants who have represented closing date.
their Province at a national or age-group level. For details on how to apply, see page 81.

WHY MUST I APPLY BEFORE I HAVE AN ACADEMIC STUDY OFFER? It takes time to assess NSFAS BURSARY. The NSFAS funding provided to successful applicants is a non-repayable
the eligibility of all applications received and we want applicants to know their NSFAS and UCT bursary. The funding provided by UCT is in the form of a bursary and a loan that is repayable
financial aid funding status early. Knowing how you will pay for your studies, helps you to make after your studies.
an informed decision about where you accept a study offer. Eligible students can also immediately
receive their allowances once they are registered. CAN I HOLD OTHER AWARDS ALONG WITH THE UCT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE?
YES. Funds are limited, and we encourage students to look for other sources of funding to enable
HOW WILL MY FINANCIAL ELIGIBILITY BE ASSESSED? Higher Education and Training more students to be assisted. You are obliged to inform UCT immediately of any other financial
National Bursary Rules and Guidelines. For 2022, the NSFAS assisted first-time entering students assistance you receive.
from families with a gross income below R350 000. It is important to note that gross family income
is not the only criteria, applicants must be South African citizens or South African permanent IS UCT & NSFAS FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE RENEWABLE? Eligible students are automatically
residents that intend to register in an approved funded programme (note that the PGCE, PGDA considered for renewal based on academic performance each year and the number of years
and LAWP01 programmes are no longer funded). Information on all NSFAS funding rules is of study. No student will be funded for longer than the minimum duration of the programme
available on their website at www.nsfas.org.za plus 1 year.
UCT however offers a GAP funding programme for those students from families that have a gross Transferring students must be aware that all years of study at universities is counted when
income between R350 000 and R600 000, that are South African citizens intending to register for considering renewal of funding on academic performance and the N+ Rule of how long a student
an approved funded programme. UCT will send out applications to applicants/students that are has been studying.
rejected by NSFAS on income above R350 000 to evaluate your eligibility for GAP funding. Details
of UCT’s GAP funding eligibility is available on the UCT website. HOW CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AT UCT?
Please visit the UCT website, phone the Student Financial Aid Office at +27 (0)21 650 5094, or
WHEN WILL I KNOW IF I AM ELIGIBLE? NSFAS will inform you of your eligibility for email [email protected], or visit the UCT financial aid website for more information.
NSFAS and UCT will inform you if you qualify for UCT GAP funding.
The NSFAS funding provided to successful applicants is a non-repayable bursary. The funding
WILL ALL MY COSTS BE COVERED IF I AM SUCCESSFUL? Costs are covered based provided by UCT is in the form of a bursary and a loan that is repayable after your studies.
on funding policy. NSFAS advertises their funding policy annually, and UCT’s GAP funding policy
is availably on the financial aid website.
www.uct.ac.za/dsa/student-funding-administration-financial-assistance/financial-aid

Being at university is primarily about learning to work by keeping with its central role in the academic life of UCT, the
yourself and for yourself. In this section we describe some of the Chancellor Oppenheimer Library is centrally located on the
resources that are available at UCT to help you succeed. upper campus, while the branch libraries are spread across UCT’s
various campuses, close to the academic departments they serve.
STUDENT
Staying in residence is an extension of your COMPUTING FACILITIES The Libraries’ webpage provides 24/7 on- and off-campus access
university education, and you can benefit from UCT provides an extensive network of computer workstations to more than 84 000 electronic journals, a growing collection of
a range of facilities and services including PC for use by students. All students are allocated a personal email electronic books and 190 databases. There are approximately
LIFE AT UCT
labs, network connections, social and sporting address, and have access to UCT’s computer network as soon 1,2 million print volumes, with more than 16 700 print journal
activities. as they register. Wireless coverage extends to all campuses. titles. The modern design of the main library draws on the very
Software applications available on campus range from basic best models of university libraries world-wide, offering spacious
ON-CAMPUS ACCOMMODATION word-processing to advanced statistical and design packages. reading areas, numerous computer workstations, audio-visual
In addition to the extensive network of computers available viewing areas, group project rooms, wireless internet access and
UCT hasLEARNING
a three-tierRESOURCES
residence system that to all students in UCT’s Library, Student Learning Centres and plug points, as well ample photocopying, printing, and scanning
provides different services, governance and faculty computer laboratories, several departments have their facilities.
management Lectures,
in seminars,
each tier.tutorials and and
The policy own facilities with specialised software to support teaching and
criteria for admission to UCT student of
laboratory classes form part housing learning in their degree programmes. The Vincent Kolbe Knowledge Commons, our fully-equipped
assume thatthe academic programme.
a new student In allenter a
will initially undergraduate learning facility, provides both professional help
of these settings
first-tier (catering) residencestudents work
and subsequently UCT LIBRARIES and high-end IT facilities for researching, writing, and printing
and learn together. The most
move to a second-tier (senior catering or self- UCT’s main library, the Chancellor Oppenheimer Library, and its assignments to students. In addition, the 24/7 study area offers
formal of these is the lecture,
catering) residence or into third-tier (semi- seven branch libraries offer a diverse array of study and research a safe and comfortable space for those who need to burn the
which may be attended by
autonomous severalself-catering)
hundred students,accommodation.
while materials, as well as professional and expert assistance in finding midnight oil. A recent learning facility for all students is the
This section givesoffer
tutorials some information
contact between on each information and carrying out research. Library Buddies (student Library Learning Lounge which is a library space without books
of these small
tiers, and the of
groups residence
students halls,
andflats or assistants) wearing the green ASK ME bibs are found in the but with amazing virtual services and Library Buddies (student
houses within each tier.
a tutor. library ready to assist with any library or general questions. In assistants) on hand to support students in finding information.
This is a “bring-your-own-device” space in the Snape Building on upper campus. Careers Service offers free, one-on-one career development consultations, events, and resources
to all UCT students. By visiting the online careers portal, MyCareer, at
CONTACT US: mycareer.uct.ac.za/students/login, students have 24/7 access to a broad range of information
Tel: +27 (0)21 650 3703/3704 such as career events, bursaries and employment opportunities. Students can personalise their
Email: [email protected] MyCareer account to receive customised notifications about information and opportunities
Website: www.lib.uct.ac.za relevant to them. Up-to-date information is also available on the website and social media. See
Facebook: www.facebook.com/uctlibraries social media links in the Contact Us box below. First year students are able to access MyCareer
Twitter: @uctlibrary from March, once the registration process is complete. During those first weeks, first year
Instagram: @uctlibraries students who are wondering what careers they can pursue with their degree or are unhappy
with their choices can book a virtual or phone appointment with a Careers Development
Consultant via email, [email protected], or phone +27 (0)21 650 2497.
ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT Careers Service supports students’ career development throughout their time at UCT to enable
The Academic Development Programme (ADP), based in the Centre for Higher Education them to navigate the changing world of work. Apart from a commitment to create career-ready
Development (CHED), runs a range of Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECPs) and individual graduates, Careers Service also has a strong focus on empowering entrepreneurs.
courses and workshops that support students academically by offering extra material, more
class time in smaller groups, more contact with lecturers and more social support than in other UCT STUDENTS CAN ACCESS:
programmes. An ECP can be regarded as a somewhat longer (usually up to a year longer), but • Free, confidential virtual or phone career consultations
safer and more supported route to qualifying for a degree. In fact, many students not on ECPs • Advertised vacation work, part-time work, internships, and graduate jobs
take longer anyway to complete their degrees because of failing some of their courses and • Help with CV’s, applications, and interview preparation
• Networking with employers
being unable to continue. Failure could be avoided by following an ECP instead.
• Bursary and scholarship information
• Help understanding the skills that employers want
Each Faculty at UCT has its own ADP unit, and the faculty-based ECPs are fully integrated • Help with developing entrepreneurial skills
with later years of study in the Faculty. There is no difference between a qualification obtained • Career information and resources
following the ECP route and those obtained following the usual route. ADP also helps to develop Alumni can access Careers Service for up to three years after they graduate from UCT.
innovative curricula and courses developing students’ language and quantitative literacy skills.
The Writing Centre on Upper Campus and the Writing Lab on the Health Sciences campus CONTACT US:
form part of ADP. At both these writing centres students can book individual consultations to
work with a consultant on their academic writing. ADP also offers short courses supporting Enquiries: Careers Service reception, Level 1,
postgraduate students. For more information or contact details for your Faculty’s ADP unit or Hoerikwaggo, North Lane, Upper Campus
the Writing Centres, visit the ADP page on the CHED website: www.ched.uct.ac.za/ched/adp. Tel: +27 (0)21 650 2497
CAREERS SERVICE Website: www.careers.uct.ac.za
UCT Careers Service supports students to take ownership of and make informed decisions Twitter: @UCTCareers
about their futures through a broad range of career development consulting services and Instagram: @UCTcareersservice
networking opportunities. The award-winning, future-focused, and innovative service has YouTube: www.youtube.com/UCTCareersService
been commended by both UCT students and employers locally and internationally for its UCT Mobile App: UCT- Careers Service
professional service and for its effort to connect students to opportunities and support them
on their career journeys.

ORIENTATION
Orientation at UCT is a process through which you learn about UCT. The purpose of this process
is to assist you in your transition and adjustment to your new learning environment. It also
ensures that you are accustomed to life at UCT, so that you can make friends and feel at home
on campus, succeed at whatever you do (academic work, sports, student societies, etc.), and
develop pride in your accomplishments.
Orientation is offered through a series of programmes. Each faculty provides an orientation

programme for its own students, as does the International Academic Programmes Office (IAPO)
for international students, whilst students in residence have residence orientation programmes.
Faculty orientation includes academic advice (about courses and programmes), computer
training, campus and library tours, as well as introductions to student services. IAPO’s programme
covers a wide range of issues relevant to international students: study visas; fees; medical-aid
cover; where to go to when in Cape Town and personal safety. Residence Orientation helps
students adjust to their new living and learning environment and this includes both the social
and learning aspects and responsibilities of living in a UCT residence.
www.dsa.uct.ac.za/student-orientation/welcome
STUDENT ORIENTATION AND ADVOCACY SERVICE (SOAS)

SOAS is a student friendly, walk-in, advocacy and referral office. SOAS deals with students’
needs and queries ranging from directions (e.g. finding offices, buildings, people, venues, etc.)
to services offered by the Department of Student Affairs. The SOAS provides access to printed
information (brochures, pamphlets, forms, notices, handbooks and other university publications)
and assistance with using these. Students will be assisted and guided in processes relating to
an effective and manageable university life. An effective referral system is in place that ensures

sufficient support and care to all students. SOAS works closely with faculties and departments consultations (medical, nursing and counselling)
within UCT and where appropriate would refer students to the relevant sector. Referral and minor procedures however; students who are on financial aid are not charged.
processes are closely monitored to ensure students receive appropriate and timeous assistance.
CONTACT US:
CONTACT US: Tel: +27 (0)21 650 1020 or +27 (0)21 650 1017.
Computer Science Building, Website: uct.ac.za/dsa/student-wellness-service/welcome-student-wellness-service-sws
Room 2.01, Level 2, Upper Campus.
Tel: +27 (0)21 650 5082 DISABILITY SERVICE
Are you an applicant with a disability? If so, let us know as we are committed to equal access
for people with disabilities, and providing reasonable accommodations for your disability.
The Disability Service strives to create an environment in which people with disabilities and
STUDENT WELLNESS SERVICE chronic illnesses can participate equitably in all aspects of university life. Our primary goal is
The Student Wellness Service (SWS) provides general medical services and counselling during to facilitate access to UCT services and facilities for students, staff and visitors with disabilities.
office hours throughout the year and the service is located in various campuses of UCT as It is important that you contact the Disability Service if you are considering studying at UCT.
clinics and satellite service points. Primary Health Care services offered includes common Knowing about your access requirements well in advance to coming to study also enables us to
ailments, manageable medical conditions, minor surgical procedures, reproductive health ensure that a support system is in place by the time you arrive.
and pregnancy advise, travel advise, sports injuries and a confidential HIV-testing service
with pre-test and post-test counselling. An onsite dispensary in the main clinic provides We can also provide support with the application process, provide you with application
essential medication at low cost. Psychological services offered include individual therapy documents in alternative format, as well as provide vital information about writing the National
group therapy, long term support groups, trauma debriefing and mental health education. Benchmark Test which most applicants need to take.
Counselling services are offered in most campuses of the university; the various service
CONTACT US:
locations can be found on the Department of Student Affairs website. Appointments can be
Tel: +27 (0)21 650 2427
made on the SWS online system on the website or the UCT App, however; emergencies can
be accessed without an appointment at the main clinic. The service charges nominal fees for

CONTACT INFORMATION
FACULTIES EMAIL ADDRESS TEL NUMBER
OFFICE HOURS - MONDAY – FRIDAY*
Commerce [email protected] 021 650 4375 Admissions Office 08h30 – 16h30
Fees Office 09h00 – 15h30
Engineering & the Built Environment [email protected] 021 650 2699
Student Housing 08h30 – 16h30
Health Sciences [email protected] 021 406 6328 Receipts Cashier 09h00 – 15h30
Humanities [email protected] 021 650 2717 * UCT offices may be closed on Thursdays from 08h30 – 09h30
Law [email protected] 021 650 3086 for staff training.
Science [email protected] 021 650 2712 VISIT THE UCT HOME PAGE AT www.uct.ac.za
OFFICES & SERVICES We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information in this
Prospectus and other handbooks.
Admissions Office [email protected] 021 650 2128
NBT Office [email protected] 021 650 3523 We reserve the right at any time, if circumstances dictate, to:
(i) make alterations or changes to any of the published details in this
Disability Service [email protected] 021 650 2427 Prospectus, as well as the courses and curricula on offer or
(ii) add to or withdraw any of the courses or programmes on offer.
Fees Office [email protected] 021 650 1704
International Academic [email protected] 021 650 2822 We give students every assurance that changes to courses and curricula
will only be made under extraordinary and compelling circumstances and
Pre-Admissions Careers Service [email protected] 021 650 2497
we will inform students as soon as possible of any changes.
Sport & Recreation [email protected] 021 650 3563/3564
Student Housing [email protected] 021 650 2977
Student Orientation and Advocacy [email protected] 021 650 5082
Student Financial Aid Office [email protected] 021 650 3545/5094

2024 Undergraduate Prospectus

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2024 Undergraduate Prospectus

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2024 UNDERGRADUATE

VICE-CHANCELLOR to adjust to change and to lead ourselves and others

4 | 2024 UNDERGRADUATE PROSPECTUS

2024 UNDERGRADUATE PROSPECTUS | 5

VISIE-KANSILIER om self ‘n uitdaging om te keer deur ‘n geleentheid te skep.

6 | 2024 UNDERGRADUATE PROSPECTUS

ADMISSION POINTS SCORE (APS):

ADMISSIONS SELECTION CRITERIA:

Then, we apply the admissions selection criteria for the

Details of all undergraduate programmes offered are DISADVANTAGE FACTOR:

EARLY CONDITIONAL OFFER:

An early conditional offer will be withdrawn

FACULTY POINTS SCORE (FPS):

MATRICULATION / MATRICULATION ENDORSEMENT:

MINIMUM ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

NATIONAL BENCHMARK TESTS (NBTS):

8 | 2024 UNDERGRADUATE PROSPECTUS

A Level Advanced Level

APS Admission Points Score

AS Advanced Subsidiary Level

2024 UNDERGRADUATE PROSPECTUS | 9

UCT OPEN DAY

Every year we host Open Day aimed at secondary school learners in

THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE

The Admissions Office is open between 08h30 and 16h30, Mondays to

Parents of new undergraduate students are invited to attend Parents’

VISITING For more information about visiting UCT or the

UCT THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE:

10 | 2024 UNDERGRADUATE PROSPECTUS

03 • All applications open

30 • Final date to submit the

2024 UNDERGRADUATE PROSPECTUS | 13

HOW TO When making offers, we:

APPLY • select a proportion (usually a bigger proportion) of the class

YOU CAN CONTACT US:

Total = 463/600 English Home Language 75% = 75 pts

Make a total 165/300, added to 463

ADMISSION POINTS TABLE

CURRENT UCT STUDENTS APPLYING FOR UNDERGRADUATE TRANSFERS

• A valid (no more than 2 years old) IELTS

For more information about the TOEFL (including information

18 | 2024 UNDERGRADUATE PROSPECTUS

WHO WRITES WHAT?

Benchmark Academic Literacy Quantitative Literacy Mathematics 16* 25 Jun 14 Aug

Intermediate Upper 47 60 50 65 48 62 7** 24 Sep 6 Nov

A Commerce degree will give you the educational foundation to enable

UG PROSPECTUS 2024 ADMISSION | 23

The General Accounting option is designed for

Graduates of either stream may go into areas of commercial

2024 UNDERGRADUATE PROSPECTUS | 25

ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN ACTUARIAL SCIENCE

Candidates should have a first-class degree in Mathematical Statistics from a recognised

The selection instruments we use for Commerce are:

CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION TO A COMMERCE DEGREE VIA MAINSTREAM OR

2024 UNDERGRADUATE PROSPECTUS | 27

2024 UNDERGRADUATE PROSPECTUS | 29

SAT II score of 1050 or more for English and one of Physics or

Umrechnungstabelle/conversion table (grades to percentages)

POINT RANGE % RANGE