Financial Information
On this page, you’ll find an overview of the financial arrangements available to SU exchange students, including tuition benefits, bursary options, and important considerations such as start-up costs and bridging funds. While these opportunities can help reduce financial barriers, exchanges are built on a co-funding model — meaning students should also be prepared to cover part of the costs.
By understanding these arrangements early on during your application, you can plan realistically and make the most of the funding opportunities available.
Financial Arrangements for Semester Exchanges
If you're accepted to study at one of SU’s partner institutions as an exchange student, you may qualify for the following benefits:
From the Host University
Tuition Fee Waiver: You won’t pay tuition fees at the host university.
Additional Financial Support: Some partners offer benefits such as monthly stipends or housing scholarships, depending on the specific agreement. Details are available on request.
From SU International
Exchange Bursary: Eligible students can apply for financial assistance to help cover travel costs (e.g. flights) and other administrative expenses.
⚠️ Please note
Receiving a bursary is not automatic. A separate selection process applies, and a successful exchange placement does not guarantee financial support.
⚠️ Please note
- Only one bursary will be awarded per student.
- All awards are subject to the availability of funds determined by SUI.
- General conditions apply
Exchange Bursaries
Stellenbosch University International (SUI) supports outgoing exchange students through co-funding opportunities - and not full funding. The aim is to help reduce financial barriers by covering certain costs through travel bursaries, tuition waivers, and, in some cases, scholarships.
Types of Exchange Bursaries
| Bursary Type | Amount | Eligibility |
| Exchange Bursary 1 | R25,630 | For students receiving additional benefits from partner universities (e.g. housing scholarships, Erasmus+, or country specific awards.) |
| Erasmus+ Grantees | Students receiving a travel allowance as part of an Erasmus+ grant do not qualify for a Stellenbosch University Exchange Bursary. | |
| BCom International Business Students | Please consult the IB Information Portal for specific financial details. |
Additional Considerations
Start-Up Costs
Prepare for initial expenses like visa fees, admin charges, and travel insurance. Bursaries of partner scholarships do not always cover these fees.
Bridging Funds
Some scholarships may not be paid out immediately upon arrival. We strongly recommend having bridging funds available to cover costs during the first few weeks abroad.
Co-Funding Focus
Exchanges are structured around shared funding responsibilities between SU, partner universities, and you, the student. Be prepared to cover:
- Living expenses
- Additional travel costs
- Administrative or visa fees
🤝 Talk to Us
Discuss your financial situation with SU International early in the process so we can guide you effectively. We also encourage open discussions with your parents, guardians, or financial benefactors to help you plan ahead.
Contact Person:
