BIEMANN
Health · High demand · scarce skill
Study Medicine in South Africa
Six years of training plus internship and community service to become a medical doctor.
36–42+Typical APS range
6 years + 3 years serviceStudy duration
R 500k – R 1.6mSalary range a year
86/100Growth outlook
School subjects
- Mathematics (70%+)
- Physical Sciences (70%+)
- Life Sciences
- English
Qualifications
- MBChB Medicine
- MBBCh Medicine
Skills you will build
- Clinical reasoning
- Communication & empathy
- Resilience
- Lifelong learning
Strong universities for this field
Example programmes and APS
| Programme | University | APS |
|---|---|---|
| MBChB Medicine | University of Cape Town | 42 |
| MBBCh Medicine | University of the Witwatersrand | 42 |
| MBChB Medicine | Stellenbosch University | 42 |
| MBChB Medicine | University of KwaZulu-Natal | 40 |
| MBChB Medicine | University of Limpopo | 34 |
| MBChB Medicine | Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University | 34 |
Questions
Medicine: frequently asked
What subjects do I need to study Medicine?
Most institutions look for: Mathematics (70%+), Physical Sciences (70%+), Life Sciences, English. Check each university’s exact minimums.
What APS do I need for Medicine?
Programmes in Medicine typically ask for an APS of about 36–42+, depending on the institution and qualification. Calculate your APS.
How long does it take to study Medicine?
Usually 6 years + 3 years service for a first qualification, with optional honours or professional years after that.
What can I earn in Medicine?
Typical South African salaries range from about R 500k – R 1.6m a year, rising with experience and specialisation. Demand is currently high and the field is on the national scarce-skills list.
