University of the Witwatersrand

Wits: Shaping Africa's Future, Inspiring Global Change.

📍 Johannesburg, South Africa 🇿🇦

🏆 #2 in South Africa · QS World #291 · THE World #301 · ARWU #301

Quick Facts about University of the Witwatersrand

  • Type: Public
  • Students: 41,702
  • Campus: Multiple Campuses
  • Tuition: $10,000 – $20,000/year
  • Language: English, isiZulu, Sesotho, South African Sign Language
  • Intakes: Fall, Spring

About University of the Witwatersrand

The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University) is a leading public research university located in Johannesburg, South Africa. Established in 1922, it is renowned for its academic excellence, research, and commitment to social justice, consistently ranking among the top universities in Africa and globally. Wits offers a vibrant and diverse environment, attracting students from across Africa and the world.

Academics

Wits University comprises five faculties: Commerce, Law and Management; Engineering and the Built Environment; Health Sciences; Humanities; and Science, encompassing 33 schools and offering over 3000 courses. The university is recognized for its research excellence, with over 90% of its research published in high-impact international journals. Notable programs include those in medicine, engineering, law, actuarial science, and film and television, reflecting a strong emphasis on both traditional disciplines and emerging fields. Wits is also home to several South African Research Chairs and Centres of Excellence, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to addressing complex challenges.

International Students

The International Students Office (ISO) at Wits provides comprehensive support services for international students from over sixty countries, assisting with immigration regulations, study visa applications, and cultural integration. International students are integrated into the broader university community through academic programs and social activities, creating a diverse and inclusive environment. While specific diversity statistics are not readily available, the university actively promotes internationalization and offers various student organizations and clubs for cultural integration and social engagement.

Campus & Location

Wits University's campuses are spread across Johannesburg, with the historic East Campus housing the faculties of Science and Humanities, and West Campus home to Engineering and the Built Environment, and Commerce, Law and Management. Johannesburg offers a dynamic city life, and the campus itself provides a secure and vibrant student experience. The university has several attractions on its campuses, including the Wits Art Museum, Origins Centre, and the Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct, which fosters start-ups and digital skills development.

Career Outcomes

Wits University is committed to producing graduates who make a significant impact in various sectors. The university maintains strong industry connections, with faculties actively collaborating with businesses for teaching, research, and program development. The Counselling and Careers Development Unit (CCDU) provides career counseling and support to students. Wits also fosters an entrepreneurial culture through initiatives like the Wits Entrepreneurship Hub, which supports student startups with resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Wits graduates have gone on to become CEOs and leaders in various industries, reflecting the university's strong reputation for producing highly capable professionals.

Information for International Students at University of the Witwatersrand

University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa welcomes international students.

  • Visa support available
  • On-campus work allowed
  • Student housing available (~$5500/month)
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: English, isiZulu, Sesotho, South African Sign Language

Admissions Requirements for University of the Witwatersrand

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of the Witwatersrand:

  • IELTS minimum: 6.5
  • GPA minimum: 2.5
  • Application fee: $200
  • Selectivity: Selective (20-40%)
  • Application deadline: September 30

Apply to University of the Witwatersrand →

Scholarships & Tuition at University of the Witwatersrand

Annual tuition for international students: $10,000 – $20,000/year

✅ University of the Witwatersrand offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of University of the Witwatersrand

  • National Ranking: #2 in South Africa
  • QS World University Ranking: #291
  • Times Higher Education (THE): #301
  • Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #301
  • Ranking tier: Top 500
  • Research output: Very High

Campus & Facilities at University of the Witwatersrand

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • No disability support info
  • Campus type: Multiple Campuses
  • Housing cost: ~$5500/month

Key Highlights

  • Leading African research university
  • Historic Johannesburg campus
  • Diverse international student body
  • Strong social justice commitment
  • Academic excellence, 3000+ courses
  • Renowned for medical, engineering

Accreditation

  • Council on Higher Education (CHE)
  • Association of MBAs (AMBA)
  • Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA)
  • South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP)
  • Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
  • South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)

Fields of Study at University of the Witwatersrand

  • Engineering
  • Business
  • Law
  • Medicine
  • Science

Notable Alumni

  • Nelson Mandela
  • Nadine Gordimer
  • Sydney Brenner
  • Aaron Klug
  • Patrice Motsepe

Frequently Asked Questions about University of the Witwatersrand

What is University of the Witwatersrand?

University of the Witwatersrand is a public university located in Johannesburg, South Africa. It has approximately 41,702 students.

How much does it cost to study at University of the Witwatersrand?

Tuition fees at University of the Witwatersrand for international students range from $10,000 – $20,000/year. Student housing costs approximately $5500/month. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for University of the Witwatersrand?

IELTS minimum: 6.5. GPA minimum: 2.5. Application fee: $200. Selectivity: Selective (20-40%). Application deadline: September 30.

What language are courses taught in at University of the Witwatersrand?

Courses at University of the Witwatersrand are taught in English and isiZulu and Sesotho and South African Sign Language. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.

What is University of the Witwatersrand ranked?

#2 in South Africa · QS World #291 · THE World #301 · ARWU #301.

Does University of the Witwatersrand offer scholarships?

Yes, University of the Witwatersrand offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does University of the Witwatersrand provide visa support?

Yes, University of the Witwatersrand provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.

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