Studying medicine in South Africa is highly competitive. Only a small number of universities offer the MBChB degree, and entry requirements are among the highest in the country.
Medical Schools in South Africa
- University of Cape Town (UCT): The oldest and most prestigious medical school in Africa.
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits): Known for its strong clinical training in Johannesburg hospitals.
- University of Pretoria (UP): Offers the MBChB with a strong research and community-health focus.
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN): Home to the Nelson Mandela School of Medicine.
- University of the Free State (UFS): A well-respected medical programme with strong rural outreach.
- University of Limpopo (UL): Serves rural communities and produces many healthcare graduates.
- Stellenbosch University (SU): Highly rated for its medical and health sciences training.
Entry Requirements
Most MBChB programmes require an APS of 38–42, with strong marks in Mathematics, Physical Sciences and Life Sciences. You may also need to write the National Benchmark Test (NBT).
Alternative Health Courses
If you do not meet MBChB requirements, consider nursing, pharmacy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy or dentistry. Many universities offer these programmes with lower APS requirements.