Requirements to Study Law at Stellenbosch University

Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Law offers a variety of programs aimed at preparing students for careers in law. Each program has specific admission criteria and a competitive selection process due to facility limitations and the need to maintain quality teaching standards. Annually, the faculty accommodates approximately 320 new students across all its law programs.

Law Programs Offered at Stellenbosch University:

1. LLB (4 years) – Directly from high school.
2. BCom (Law) – Offered by the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences.
3. BAccLLB – A joint program with the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences.
4. BA (Law) – Offered by the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.

Minimum Admission Requirements:

For detailed requirements for each program, prospective students should visit www.maties.com. Generally, these include:

• National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent qualification.
• Specific academic merit requirements in key subjects like English and Mathematics.
• Completion of the National Benchmark Test (NBT) by July 31.

Selection Process:

• Closing Date: Applications must be submitted by July 31.
• National Benchmark Test: Must be taken by July 31. Results, along with Grade 11 and, if available, Grade 12 marks, are used in selection.
• Academic Merit: Calculated from the final Grade 11 or Grade 12 results (excluding Life Orientation) and NBT results, combined in an 80:20 ratio.

Special Considerations:

• Marks in subjects like Mathematics may be adjusted for fairness in selection purposes.
• For programs like LLB, BCom (Law), and BA (Law), a quota of seats is reserved for BCIA (Broadly Classified Indian Act) students to ensure diversity.

Capacity:

• LLB (4 years): About 160 students selected to meet a target of 120.
• BA (Law): About 75 students selected to meet a target of 50.
• BCom (Law) and BAccLLB: About 150 students selected to meet a target of 100, with a flexible division between the two programs.

Waiting List and Transfer Students:

• Applicants not initially selected may be placed on a waiting list and considered at the beginning of the academic year.
• Transfers from other programs or universities are limited to 25 places, based on academic performance and school results.

Registration:

• Selected students are admitted to specific programs and may not switch programs without faculty permission.

Stellenbosch University’s law programs are highly competitive, emphasizing academic excellence and comprehensive preparation for legal careers. Students are encouraged to prepare thoroughly for their applications, meeting all deadlines and testing requirements.

Why Study Law at Stellenbosch University

Here are five specific reasons that highlight the unique advantages of studying law at Stellenbosch University:

1. Specialized Joint Degree Options: Stellenbosch University is one of the few institutions that offer joint degree programs like BAccLLB, combining law with accounting. This interdisciplinary approach provides a competitive edge to students, equipping them with a comprehensive understanding of both fields, which is highly beneficial for careers in corporate law, tax law, and forensic auditing.
2. Cutting-edge Legal Research: The Faculty of Law at Stellenbosch is renowned for its focus on pioneering legal research, particularly in areas like constitutional law, human rights, and environmental law. The faculty hosts several research chairs and institutes, such as the Research Chair in Customary Law, Indigenous Values, and Human Rights, providing students with the opportunity to engage in meaningful research that impacts real-world issues.
3. Global Exposure and Networks: The university’s global partnership network offers law students opportunities for exchange programs and internships across different continents. This exposure helps students gain valuable international legal perspectives and connects them with a global network of legal professionals.
4. Legal Clinic for Practical Experience: Stellenbosch Law Clinic is a fully functioning legal clinic where students get hands-on experience under the supervision of qualified attorneys and faculty. This clinic not only helps the local community with legal advice and services but also prepares students for the practical aspects of the legal profession, enhancing their skills in client interaction, case management, and courtroom procedures.
5. Vibrant Student Life and Leadership Development: Located in the scenic wine lands of the Western Cape, Stellenbosch University offers a vibrant campus life that goes beyond academics. The university encourages law students to engage in various leadership and development programs, law societies, and debate clubs, fostering a holistic development environment that sharpens both their professional and personal skills.