Preparing to come to Wits
When you have been accepted to study at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg you need to undertake the following steps:
- Accept the offer on the Student Self Service Portal.
- Ensure that you have a valid Passport.
- Request for the letter of undertaking for the study visa application from the International Students Office, attach the copy of the acceptance letter and advise where the application will be submitted. The e-mail must be sent to StudySA.International@wits.ac.za
- Apply for the Study Visa at the closest South African High Commission, Consulate or Mission.
- When collecting your Study Visa, check the date of issue and expiry. Ensure that it is a multiple entry visa, and issued for the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg or any of its variations.
- You must have South African Medical Aid Cover with a registered South African Medical Aid Service Provider. The cover must be until 31 December (Refer to Medical Aid section under "Immigration Information")
- Make travel arrangements to come to South Africa.
- Arrange for funds for tuition fees, accommodation and living expenses. The FOREX payment must be done in advance.
- Pack a set of clothing in your hand luggage.
- Arrange for a transfer to Wits University or place of residence.
- Undergraduate students should bring their Original School Leaving Certificates and /or Tertiary Qualifications for Matriculation Exemption.
Should you require an airport transfer, complete the "Airport Transfer Request Form". The transfer cost will be for your account and is to be paid directly to the driver.
TRANSFER OPTIONS
- The Gautrain from OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) to Park Station which is located in Braamfontein.
Private cab companies for airport transfers.
| Company | Telephone Number |
|---|---|
| Maxi Taxi | +27 11 648 1212 |
| Rose Taxi | +27 11 403 9625 |
| Airport Link | +27 11 792 2017 |
| Airport Shuttle | +27 86 174 88 85 |
| Page Corporate Transport Services | +27 11 452 6970 |
Q: Will I be able to bring my spouse/partner with me?
A: Yes as long as they have fulfilled the necessary visa requirements. Please see http://www.dha.gov.za
Q: Will my spouse/partner be able to work in South Africa?
A: Work visas are seldom granted unless someone has critical skills; please refer to the Department of Home Affairs website for further assistance.
http://www.dha.gov.za
Q: Can I bring my children to SA?
A: Please look at http://www.dha.gov.za for details on the kind of visas and permission needed for bringing your family with you.
Q: Will my children be able to go to school in SA?
A: Yes. Government schools only allow children from areas surrounding specific schools to register at a school. It is important to keep this in mind when choosing where to live. Private schools have no such restrictions. Most government schools are oversubscribed so it is worthwhile investigating schools carefully before arrival.
http://www.southafrica.info/services/education/edufacts.htm
Q: Is there a crèche or child care facility at Wits?
A: No
Q: Will my family be covered by my medical aid at Wits?
A: You can apply in your personal capacity to extend your medical aid to cover your family. Check with your medical aid for details.
Q: How long is my medical aid valid?
A: It is valid from the date it is taken out until the 31st December of any given year. Please check details on the policy because they do vary.
Q: Why may I not use my own existing medical aid from my country of origin?
A: SA legislation requires you to use a local medical aid.
Q: Will I be allowed to do part-time work whilst I am studying?
A: If you are on a student visa you are allowed to conduct part-time work for a period not exceeding 20 hours per any week.
Q: Will my driver’s licence be valid in South Africa?
A: You will need an international drivers licence and your existing drivers licence must be available in English. Please read http://www.southafrica.info/travel/advice/driving.htm for more information
