Study Permit

Persons who intend to study in South Africa will require a Study Permit. This can only be applied for when the applicant is in possession of confirmation of acceptance from the South African educational institution. Before submitting your application for the study permit, please ensure ALL the following documentation is completed and enclosed.

1. A duly completed application form signed by the applicant (BI-1738).
2. Passport valid for no less than 30 days after the expiry of intended visit.
3. One (1) photograph of applicant.
4. Payment of the prescribed fee, if applicable (85.00 AUD).
5. A vaccination certificate if applicant travelled through the yellow fever belt of Africa and South America
6. Proof of financial means in the form of:
   • bank statements;
   • bursaries;
   • medical cover in terms of a South African registered medical scheme;
   • cash available or travellers' cheques, to cover envisaged living expenses during the sojourn in the Republic and to pay tuition fees
7. A police clearance certificate is required in respect of all applicants 18 years of age or older, in respect of all previous countries of residence for periods exceeding one year
8. Copy of a return air ticket if studies are less than 12 months or a cash deposit.
9. Medical and radiological reports. Radiology reports not necessary for pregnant women and children 12 years and below.
10. An official letter of provisional enrolment from the institution of learning concerned.
11. Details regarding arranged accommodation.
12. If student is under 21 years of age, the particulars of the person in the Republic who will act as the learner's guardian and confirmatory letter from such person, and proof of consent for the intended stay from both parents, or from the sole custody parent along with proof of sole custody.
13. An outline of the course or academic programme for which the applicant has been accepted and proof of the required qualifications to attend it.
14. The holder of a study permit may also apply for permission to conduct work in the form of practical training as part of the studies to obtain a diploma, degree by submitting:
    • an offer to do practical training
    • consent from the learning institution (may be done when is South Africa)
15. If the applicant is studying at a higher educational institution, he/she may apply for part-time employment not exceeding 20 hours per week, which shall not apply during academic vacation, by submitting:
    • an offer of employment
    • letter of consent from the learning institution (may be done when in South Africa)

PLEASE NOTE: A Repatriation Guarantee deposit of 1,500.00 AUD MAY be required to be lodged at this Mission for all applicants, when your study permit has been approved. A receipt will be issued to you by this Mission which must be kept in order for the money to be refunded upon your return. In the case of African students, an undertaking from the relevant government to take full responsibility of the student and to pay all costs should it become necessary to deport the student, would suffice.

Return Postage:

• For applications originating from within Australia - a Self-addressed Express or Registered Post Envelope (only one envelope per family) OR a Postal Money Order or Bank Cheque made payable to the South African High Commission.
• For applications originating from outside Australia a Bank Draft for the amount of
  10.00 AUD made payable to the South African High Commission. (Fee covers
  whole family / group)

Personal cheques or credit cards are NOT accepted.

Processing time is ten (10) working days from receipt of application if application is complete.

Postal Address:

South African High Commission
State Circle
Yarralumla
ACT
2600

For further information, please contact this Mission between 08:30 and 13:00 Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST), Monday to Friday.

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