Sol Plaatje University
A well-established university providing quality higher education. Offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs with dedicated faculty and supportive learning environment.
- Acceptance Rate
- 70.2%
- SAT Range
- 950–1150
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.1
- Size
- Large (28,570 students)
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- 1:25
- Setting
- urban
- Graduation Rate
- 74.0%
- Retention Rate
- 80.0%
- Tuition (In-State)
- $3,000
- Tuition (Int'l)
- $8,000
Academic Programs
STEM
Business
Social Sciences
Humanities
Health
Arts
English Proficiency Requirements
Student Life & Environment
Campus life at Sol Plaatje University continues to develop as the institution matures, with student organizations and social activities expanding each year. The student body of nearly 29,000 creates a significant community presence in Kimberley, with the university serving as an important cultural and intellectual hub for the city and surrounding region. Students come from across South Africa and increasingly from other African countries, bringing together different backgrounds and perspectives. The urban campus setting provides access to Kimberley's amenities while the university develops its own facilities and gathering spaces. Student residence options have expanded as the university has grown, though some students choose off-campus accommodation in the city. Sports and recreation programs continue to develop, with the university participating in various intercollegiate competitions. Cultural events, including performances and exhibitions that draw on the region's heritage, provide regular opportunities for community engagement.
Location & Surroundings
Kimberley holds a special place in South African history as the site of the world's largest diamond rush in the 1870s, which transformed the region and left lasting marks on the landscape and culture. The Big Hole, an open-pit and underground mine, stands as a monument to this period and remains a popular tourist attraction. Today, Kimberley serves as the capital of the Northern Cape, South Africa's largest province by area but smallest by population. The semi-arid climate brings hot summers and mild winters with plenty of sunshine throughout the year. While Kimberley is smaller and more relaxed than major South African cities like Johannesburg or Cape Town, it offers a distinctive quality of life and lower cost of living. The city provides essential services and amenities while maintaining a manageable pace of life that many students appreciate. Its location in the heart of the country provides a base for exploring the Northern Cape's natural attractions, including the Kalahari Desert and various nature reserves.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Tuition fees at Sol Plaatje University follow the South African public university model, with costs varying by program and student nationality. South African students benefit from government subsidies that keep fees manageable, and various financial aid programs including the National Student Financial Aid Scheme help cover costs for qualifying students. International students pay somewhat higher fees but still find South African education affordable compared to many alternatives. Living costs in Kimberley are significantly lower than in major South African cities, making SPU an economically sensible choice for budget-conscious students. Career prospects for graduates connect strongly to the university's focus areas, with teaching graduates in particularly high demand given educator shortages throughout the country. The university works to build relationships with employers in the Northern Cape and beyond, recognizing that job placement is crucial for students from the communities it serves. Graduate programs in heritage studies and data science open doors to specialized careers in growing fields.
Campus Location
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