South Africa is brimming with one-of-a-kind cultural and academic opportunities—perfect for students eager to step off the beaten path and embrace an unforgettable study abroad experience. AIFS Abroad offers numerous study abroad programs in Stellenbosch at Stellenbosch University, one of the top-ranked colleges in Africa. A university town located 30 minutes from Cape Town, Stellenbosch is an excellent choice for anyone seeking beautiful natural views and easy access to a major city. Want to learn what it’s actually like to study abroad in South Africa?
Hear from two college students who studied abroad in South Africa with AIFS Abroad!
Lucy: Spring in Stellenbosch
Meet Lucy, a political science and nutrition student from the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University who studied abroad in Stellenbosch, South Africa, during spring semester. Below, she describes the city of Stellenbosch:
“Stellenbosch is so beautiful. The downtown is so cute with so many fun restaurants, shops, bakeries, and bars. But also surrounded by mountains for lots of hiking [and other] outdoor activities.”
At one of the top universities in Africa, you can expect engaging classes that advance your academic knowledge and help you earn credits towards your degree. Hear Lucy describe her classes and schedule at Stellenbosch University:
“Stellenbosch University has so many classes to choose from! I am taking Photography, Politics and Cultural Change, and a Service Learning class where we go volunteer in the local schools twice a week! … Our classes are usually 1-2 times per week for 2-3 hours at a time. This still gives you a ton of time to experience everything Stellenbosch has to offer!”
There’s so much to see in South Africa, including some unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. In her free time, Lucy joined AIFS Abroad excursions and traveled with friends from her program, giving her the chance to experience even more of the country. Below, she describes her favorite trip with AIFS Abroad:
“My favorite trip so far has been the Cederburg Mountains, a crazy hard hike, but so worth it! … we went hiking, cliff jumping, wine tasting—all completely unplugged. Such a sweet weekend!”
As Lucy details below, study abroad programs in South Africa offer distinct benefits:
“It’s different than most study abroad programs! You are surrounded by mountains, beaches, warm weather, and the kindest people! You are also integrated directly into the university and get to be fully a part of the student body (joining clubs, going to sporting events, etc.). There really is something to do here for everyone. Another huge draw for me was the service learning aspect.”
Brianna: Fall in Stellenbosch
Brianna from Clark University studied abroad in Stellenbosch during the fall semester. Below, she explains her experience attending Stellenbosch University, and how it differs from her school in the U.S.:
“I [studied] at Stellenbosch University. This was a good experience for me since [my home university is] a small school without a lot of students. [Stellenbosch University] has a lot more students than mine, so I was able to meet many people and go to a lot of events, such as the school’s rugby games. My school doesn’t have any big sporting events, so that was cool to experience.”
Below, Brianna describes her classes at Stellenbosch University in more detail:
“Classes were very similar to my home university’s. They were small, which I enjoyed since you have more opportunities to connect with your professors. One of the differences was that we only met once a week, and the classes were still pretty short, which was nice. This allowed me to go on a lot of trips! My classes also included international/AIFS students.”
Studying abroad in South Africa offers amazing opportunities for hands-on learning, especially for someone like Brianna, who’s interested in conservation:
“What stood out the most for me was my one-week field trip to Kruger National Park with my practical conservation class. It was definitely one of the best things I did while abroad.”
While South Africa may be across the world, it’s important to remember that AIFS Abroad will always be there to support you. From our Program Advisors who help you before departure to our on-site staff who assist you at your program destination, help is never far away. Hear Brianna explain her experience with the AIFS Abroad support staff and her Program Director in Stellenbosch:
“Throughout my program, from the application process to after [returning home], I had a tremendous amount of support. My advisors before going to South Africa were helpful when answering my questions pre-departure. While I was in South Africa, I had the privilege of having Hestea as my [Program Director]. She was AMAZING! No matter what, she was always one phone call away and doing the most for all of us. I loved her so much!”
Discover all South Africa has to offer—study abroad in Stellenbosch with AIFS Abroad like these college students did!
AIFS Abroad offers many exciting study abroad programs in South Africa, each tailored to meet specific academic, personal, and professional preferences. South Africa offers the chance to experience breathtaking natural landscapes alongside a rich blend of cultures and traditions. Wherever you study abroad, go with AIFS Abroad and take advantage of our valuable program inclusions (which really take the stress out of planning!), such as housing, trips and excursions, social and cultural activities, 24/7 emergency support, comprehensive insurance, and the support of our trusted on-site staff.
