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Program Overview
Program Overview
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Popular Subject Areas
Business, STEM, Social Sciences & Liberal Arts
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Location
Cape Town
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Host University
University of Cape Town
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Term
Fall 1 2021
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Program Dates
Early Jul, 2021 - Mid Nov, 2021
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Program Length
Semester
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Application Deadline
Apr 01, 2021
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Forms and Payment Deadline
Apr 15, 2021
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Credit
72 - 90 Contact Hours
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Eligibility
3.00 Minimum GPA*
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Cost
$17,995
- Apply Now
Study Abroad Program Description
Known as the "Harvard of Africa," the University of Cape Town (UCT) is South Africa's oldest university and one of the continent's leading teaching and research institutions. You can study in several fields, including Humanities, Social Sciences, Engineering, Law, Business, and Natural Sciences.
Semester + Semester Programs Available: You can combine the Spring + Fall OR Fall + Spring sessions at a discounted price. For more information about this option, please contact your ISA South Africa Program Manager.
*Eligibility
MINIMUM GPA
Students must have a minimum grade point average of 3.00.
What's Included
Comprehensive Advising and Support
Comprehensive Advising and Support
A team of helpful ISA staff members is here to support you through the entire study abroad process, from finding the perfect program through re-entry. The Program Advisors will help you choose your program based on your unique objectives. Once you’ve selected your program, you will work with your Program Manager on the application process as well as pre-departure forms and finances. Your Program Manager will also assist with academics, housing, visas, and city-living/cultural guidance.
In addition to individual advising, you will receive virtual resources to help prepare you for your time abroad. This includes the ISA Student Portal, which houses your program application, pre-departure forms/resources, and the online orientation. The online orientation is a pre-cursor to the on-site orientations and offers city-specific resources about living in your host city, communication, packing, diversity abroad, how to be academically successful, and more.
24-Hour Emergency
24-Hour Emergency
The ISA Health, Safety, and Security team facilitates an in-house on-call system with a U.S.-based employee and manager who are on-call and available in case of emergency 24-7. ISA regular office hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:00am - 7:00pm and Friday, 7:00am - 5:00pm Central Time.
If you are a parent or student needing assistance in an emergency situation outside of the regular office hours, please call the ISA office at 512-480-8522 to access the ISA emergency contact information for that particular week. Students who experience an emergency while abroad will also have access to on-site staff 24-hour emergency assistance.
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Health, Safety, and Security (HSS) for ISA students is jointly managed by our resident staff and HSS team. This team works to monitor risk at program locations, respond to any crises that may arise, and develop policies to further ensure the health, safety, and security of students abroad with ISA.
Airport Reception
Airport Reception
Ground transportation is provided from the airport as long as you arrive during the ISA designated arrival date and time and at the appropriate airport. Upon acceptance into your program, you will receive the “How to Book Your Flight” form which outlines the specific details for airport reception.
Airport reception is not provided for most Intensive Month or J-Term programs.
Visa Support
Visa Support
Your ISA Program Manager will be available to help you with the visa process for your program country, if applicable. They will provide resources, guidance on necessary steps to obtain your visa, and deliver supporting visa application materials to you as needed.
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition and administrative fees at the host university are included in the program price. Classes are held at the host university and are taught by local and/or visiting faculty. Some classes will have additional fees that are not included in the program price.
Housing
Housing
Housing is guaranteed and included in the price of all ISA programs, with the exception of Pacific programs, in which housing is offered at an additional cost. Accommodation options will vary according to program site and session. For more details about ISA's housing options and applicable security deposits, please refer to the housing tab for your program of interest.
Bridging Cultures Program
Bridging Cultures Program
The Bridging Cultures Program (BCP) encompasses the ISA on-site orientation which will be delivered to you in the first few days of your time abroad. The BCP is designed to prepare you for a successful, positive, and rewarding experience that will influence the rest of your life. This is accomplished through introducing you to your host city’s culture and infrastructure as well as through goal setting, intercultural awareness, diversity and professional development activities.
Full-Time Resident Staff
Full-Time Resident Staff
The full-time resident staff is available to assist you with all aspects of your experience abroad. The resident staff provides support during official course registration and arranges the Bridging Cultures Program orientation, excursions, weekly meetings, cultural activities, and much more. Staff members are trained to ensure the well-being of each program participant and are dedicated to facilitating a positive and meaningful study abroad experience.
On-Site ISA Offices
On-Site ISA Offices
Most program locations have an on-site ISA office within the program city. The on-site offices provide you with an additional comfortable space in the city and serve as a common meeting place and resource center.
Internet Access
Internet Access
As an ISA student, you will enjoy free internet access at ISA on-site offices, computer labs at the host university, and/or your ISA housing.
ISA Discovery Model
ISA Discovery Model
ISA programs facilitate learning and development through co-curricular activities. We rely on host universities to provide quality instruction in the classroom, but ISA is the main facilitator of learning outside of the classroom. Efforts to promote student learning are shaped by a teaching and learning framework we call the ISA Discovery Model.
According to this model, student learning and development is organized into five areas of discovery: 1. Intercultural, 2. Historical, 3. Sociopolitical, 4. Professional and 5. Environmental
Throughout the duration of your ISA program, we provide you with the opportunity to pursue these five areas of discovery through the BCP, excursions, cultural activities, and references to non-ISA sponsored events and opportunities.
Excursions
Excursions
Organized excursions are included with each program to complement the academic component of your abroad experience. These complementary experiences are designed to engage student learning outside of the classroom in the five areas of the Discovery Model. Transportation and guided tours are included, as well as hotel accommodations and breakfast during multi-day excursions. Additional optional excursions may be offered during each program that are not included in the program cost.
Excursions are not included for Intensive Month, J-Term, and some summer sessions.
Cultural Activities
Cultural Activities
The ISA program staff develops unique cultural activities custom-designed to invite you to experience the local color of your host city, while learning about the history and culture of your new surroundings. Speaking the native language with locals, tasting the regional cuisine, and partaking in the native traditions are only a few of the ways these cultural activities lead to full appreciation of the program city.
Insurance
Insurance
A Blanket Accident and Sickness Policy is included in the program and covers you during the official on-site period of the program. This is not an optional benefit; every ISA participant will be covered by this policy. A full description of coverage can be found on the ISA website.
We recommend that you maintain comprehensive health insurance while abroad. This is particularly important if you have any pre-existing conditions but is also beneficial if you have an injury or illness while abroad and require further treatment upon your return home. Please be sure to consult with your current insurance provider to confirm coverage policies while traveling abroad.
Official Transcript from the Host University
Official Transcript from the Host University
Upon completion of the ISA program, your host university will issue an official transcript with all coursework taken abroad. ISA's Academic Records Department will process and forward the official transcript to the appropriate office at your home university, and a photocopy will be sent to your permanent home address for your records. ISA will provide a cover letter to accompany the transcript with important academic information, including the host university's grading system and recommended U.S. letter grade equivalencies, translated course titles, and credit conversion recommendations.
Professional Development Toolbox
Professional Development Toolbox
The Professional Development Toolbox, available in the online orientation section of the student portal, will help you identify the skills and key competencies you have developed through your personal, academic, and cultural experiences. This toolbox helps you to articulate the transferable skills developed through study abroad in a way that shows potential employers or post-graduate universities the benefits our you will provide them as a direct result of your experience abroad.
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarship Opportunities
As an ISA participant, you will have the opportunity to apply for scholarships or grants that can be applied directly to assist with your study abroad program. ISA offers over $1,000,000 in scholarships and grants each year. To see what opportunities are available, please visit the Support & Funding page.
Academics
Credits
Contact Hours
72 - 90
Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
12 - 18
Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
18 - 25
Academic Information
IMPORTANT: The courses listed below are just a sampling of all the courses UCT offers. Please use the course handbooks listed under the section title "Go to Host University Course Search" to make final course selections.
- Course Credit
Per the University of Cape Town, 6 HEQF (NQF) credits = 1 U.S. semester credit (1.5 U.S. quarter credits). Credit transfer is ultimately determined by the students' home universities. Students can enroll in a total of 72-90 HEQF (NQF) credits per semester.
Credits earned vary according to the policies of the students' home institutions. According to ISA policy and possible visa requirements, students must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by their home institutions, for the duration of the program.
- Course Selection
Only courses with an 'F' at the end of the course code will be available during the Spring semester. Example: HST1000F: History of South Africa. Only courses that end with an 'S' are available during the Fall semester. Example: POL1005S
Eligibility for courses may be subject to a placement and/or prerequisites.
Please consult the UCT Faculty Handbooks for a complete list of course offerings and information.
- Course Level
Students with no prior knowledge about a specific subject should select introductory courses at the 1000 level Students with prior knowledge about a subject should choose courses at the 2000 and 3000 level.
Please note that students may only select 3000 level courses if they meet all pre-requisite qualifications.Additionally, selecting 3000 level courses will prolong the issuing of the University of Cape Town Official Letter, which is required for visa application.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Keep in mind that when choosing courses, even lower level courses at the University of Cape Town can be quite challenging and academically rigorous.
- Course Recommendation
ISA offers course level recommendations for the courses offered by the University of Cape Town (UCT). Please note that the course level recommendations are based on unique course codes provided by the UCT. Courses offered at the UCT are coded according to the area of study, the level of the course contents (which is related to the year of studies), and the semester in which the course is offered. The first 3 letters of the code indicate the area of study, the first number in the following 4 digit numeral indicates the year of studies, and the final letter (F, S or W) indicates the semester in which the course is offered (F = First=Spring, S = Second=Fall, W = Whole year). Courses taken in the 1st and 2nd year of studies are recommended as lower division, while courses taken in the 3rd and 4th year of studies are recommended as upper division and may have certain prerequisite requirements. These ISA recommendations are intended to facilitate the determination of course equivalencies by advisers and credential evaluators at participants' U.S. home institutions.
- Sample Courses and Syllabi
The courses listed below are only a sampling of courses available. As such, certain courses listed below may not be available during every semester. Please click the "Complete University Course Catalog Listing" link for full Course Handbooks. Requests for syllabi can be made to the Program Manager.
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Duly Performed/Duly Performed Refusal
Duly Performed (DP) is a grade qualifier used at UCT that will determine a student's eligibility to take their final examination. If a student has received DP for a course, it means that they have met the requirements for continuous assessment (eg. mid-terms, quizzes, assignments) to take their final exam. In the UCT system, grades are heavily contingent on the final exam. The largest percentage of a student's grade in a course is determined by the final exam grade. Opting to not take the final exam will likely lead to a failing grade in the course.
- Transcript Information
The transcript from the University of Cape Town will reflect HEQF credits for each course listed below. Please be in touch with your U.S. University regarding credit transfer for this program.
To access the fullest and most up-to-date course catalog for the host university, click the "Go To Course Search" button below and select the Undergraduate Handbook for your areas of interest.
Go to Host University Course Search Here
Go to Course SearchCourses
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Course Disclaimer
- Credits earned vary according to the policies of the students' home institutions. According to ISA policy and possible visa requirements, students must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by their home institutions, for the duration of the program.
Support & Funding
U.S. Team
Bridget Naphen
Program Manager, Africa, Europe & United Kingdom
Bridget Naphen graduated from Clark University with a Master of Science in Environmental Science and Policy. Although she was not able to study abroad while she was in college her passion for wildlife conservation lead her on a journey to South Africa post graduation. After countless hours spent analyzing data and literature relating to African wildlife, she was awestruck to able to witness these magnificent creatures in their native environments - while soaking up a wealth of knowledge that never could have been obtained behind a computer or book. This experience opened her eyes to the power international travel has to stimulate understanding and support for issues across the globe. Bridget is overjoyed to begin a new journey with ISA to help others embark on life changing adventures of their own.
CAPE TOWN TEAM
Ouma Mpela
Resident Director, South Africa
Ouma Mpela
Resident Director
Funding Your ISA Program
As an ISA participant, you have the opportunity to apply for scholarships and grants that can be applied directly to assist with your study abroad programs. ISA offers over $1,000,000 in scholarships and grants each year. To see what opportunities are available, you may visit the Scholarships and Grants page. Please note that some programs, including remote learning opportunities, are not eligible for scholarships.
View all Funding OptionsHousing
Living in ISA housing will give you the opportunity to experience aspects of the South African lifestyle that are inaccessible to the average visitor. Uncovering the uniqueness of your surroundings will help you to feel right at home. As a student at the University of Cape Town, you will commute 15 minutes via the UCT bus to class. With an open and adaptable mind, the experience of living in another culture can be highly rewarding.
Student Residence
The residence halls in Cape Town are located off campus. The apartment-style accommodations have shared kitchens and bathroom facilities. Meals and laundry service are not included. You will pay a $500 refundable security deposit if living in this ISA housing option. ISA may retain some, or all, of this deposit in the event of damage to property, or if utility usage exceeds the allotted monthly amount.
Excursions
THERE’S MORE TO DISCOVER WITH ISA
Aquila Private Game Reserve
Spring Semester Only: The Aquila Game Reserve is a game reserve where you will keep your eye out for the Big 5: the elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, lion, and African buffalo. Gain a sense of the impact of climate change on the ecosystem of the Aquila Game Reserve and enter consider how policy makers can do more to mitigate further damage.
Aquila Private Game Reserve
Spring Semester Only: The Aquila Game Reserve is a game reserve where you will keep your eye out for the Big 5: the elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, lion, and African buffalo. Gain a sense of the impact of climate change on the ecosystem of the Aquila Game Reserve and enter consider how policy makers can do more to mitigate further damage.
Hermanus
Fall Semesters Only: Learn firsthand about South Africa's vast biodiversity through sea kayaking and whale watching.
Hermanus
Fall Semesters Only: Learn firsthand about South Africa's vast biodiversity through sea kayaking and whale watching.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Marvel at Cape Town's natural wonders with Table Mountain in the background. Find a new perspective exploring the tree top canopy walkway and the enjoy many types of Proteas, South Africa's national flower.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Marvel at Cape Town's natural wonders with Table Mountain in the background. Find a new perspective exploring the tree top canopy walkway and the enjoy many types of Proteas, South Africa's national flower.
District Six Museum
Explore the famous museum commemorating the Coloured population of the city.
District Six Museum
Explore the famous museum commemorating the Coloured population of the city.
Langa Community Tour
Designated as a zone for Black Africans prior to apartheid, the Langa Township is a suburb of Cape Town. See first-hand some typical living conditions within the townships of South Africa and meet some of the locals.
Langa Community Tour
Designated as a zone for Black Africans prior to apartheid, the Langa Township is a suburb of Cape Town. See first-hand some typical living conditions within the townships of South Africa and meet some of the locals.
Robben Island
Visit the infamous Apartheid-era political prison where former South African president and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years.
Robben Island
Visit the infamous Apartheid-era political prison where former South African president and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years.