Erin Koontz is Assistant Director of Student Services at Interstudy, a division of ISA based in the Boston area. Erin works with students studying abroad with Interstudy in Ireland, Botswana and South Africa.

Interstudy offers programs at eight universities in South Africa, and many of our students choose one of the options and around Cape Town. With so many options to choose from, how do you decide which program’s the best fit for you? Here’s the bottom line:
University of Cape Town
Why You Should Go: Strong Academic Reputation! Study in the heart of Cape Town at UCT, South Africa’s oldest university and one of the best schools on the continent. The University offers a full range of course offerings for every major. As one of the top ranked universities in the world, UCT does have a strict GPA requirement for application so be sure to check out the academic requirements.
University of the Western Cape
Why You Should Go: History! Located just outside Cape Town, UWC is another excellent option offering an authentic Cape Town experience. Interstudy students studying at UWC live in the Interstudy Cape Town housing, and commute to UWC for class. UWC offers an interesting perspective on the history of South Africa since the campus played a large part in student demonstrations during Apartheid.
Stellenbosch University
Why You Should Go: Scenery! Set in the South Africa’s wine country, there couldn’t be a better backdrop for your time abroad than at Stellenbosch. The University is one of the top Afrikaaner universities in the country, but also offers a wide range of courses taught in English. About 45 minutes outside of Cape Town, Stellenbosch offers a slower paced, small city feel, with easy access to the city.