Best Universities Offering LLB Courses in South Africa

The Bachelor of Laws (LLB) is one of the most direct pathways to becoming a lawyer in South Africa. The degree trains students in the principles that guide South African society and governance. 

Before enrolling for a programme, it is important for students to evaluate various factors. These help students decide if the programme and the university align with their goals.

In this article, we will explore the top institutions offering LLB courses in South Africa, the entry criteria, and how to evaluate programmes. 

Why Choose an LLB Degree?

An LLB is one of the most prestigious degrees to complete in South Africa. These competitive programmes attract students who are motivated by justice and bringing change in society. Graduates who complete this programme become practising lawyers who help to uphold the rules and values of South African law.

In a developing economy such as South Africa, law graduates play an important role in economic and technological progress. They help to draft legislation, protect consumers, and advise on developmental projects. 

As South Africa’s economy grows and diversifies, new areas of law continue to emerge. LLB graduates today can help to shape emerging fields and establish guidelines by which they operate. 

At Regenesys, LLB is offered by our Law School and is a 4-year CHE-accredited programme. Our curriculum takes a practical learning approach, which helps students develop essential skills. These include negotiation, research, and communication.

Read more on Why Choose an LLB Programme in 2026? here

Top Universities Offering LLB Courses in South Africa

Law programmes in South Africa are offered by public and private institutions. They are governed by the Department of Higher Education (DHE) and regulated by SAQA. These ensure that students receive a valuable educational experience.

1. University of Cape Town

This renowned public university offers the oldest law programme in South Africa. The LLB programme here takes a research-led approach and prepares graduates for public and private practice. 

2. University of Johannesburg

The law programme at this public university prepares students to address contemporary legal and economic challenges. The central location provides students with access to courts, law firms, and corporate legal departments. 

3. Regenesys Education

We are a private higher educational institution with over 25 years of experience. We offer 4 intakes for our CHE-accredited LLB programme. To make LLB more accessible, Regenesys offers it in both contact and online formats. Both formats follow the same curriculum and use the same assessments. 

4. University of Stellenbosch

This is one of the top law universities in Africa and is well-regarded for its strong research facilities. The university also hosts several specialised law units on campus. 

5. Wits University

This centrally located university in Johannesburg is known for its academically challenging law programme. The location provides students with valuable exposure to the legal system in practice.

Admission Requirements for LLB Programmes

To gain admission into accredited LLB courses in South Africa, students must meet the entry criteria. All public universities require students to have a good academic standing and a particular APS Score.

In contrast, private institutions offer alternative pathways to entry. This makes it feasible for students who left traditional schooling to pursue higher education. Most private institutions also do not require students to meet specific APS scores for entry into the programme. 

Many international students also enrol in South African law programmes. Depending on the institution, entry requirements and admissions processes may vary. They might also be required to have their previous education assessed on the NQF Scale.

For admission to the Regenesys Bachelor of Laws, applicants must meet the following criteria: 

• Matric with Bachelor pass or NQF level 4 equivalent qualification.
• English 1st – 50% | English 2nd – 60%.
• A levels for International students (Africa).
• Higher level pass for international students with an APS score of 26.
• Competent in Mathematics, English, and written and oral communication skills at NQF Level 4.
• Basic computer skills, internet connection, and relevant IT resources.

Duration and Structure of LLB Courses

Across South Africa, LLB programmes are NQF Level 8 degrees that require 4 years to complete. At the undergraduate level, LLB programmes provide a foundational understanding of principles that guide South African law.

Law programme curricula include core and elective modules. These allow students to develop an understanding of various fields of law. However, it is not possible to specialise in a particular field of law at this level.

The structure provides the knowledge and training needed to pass exams and become practising attorneys or advocates. With professional experience, graduates can decide which field to specialise in.

Career Opportunities After LLB Graduation

Completing an LLB degree opens the door to a wide range of opportunities in South Africa. However, before practising law, all graduates are required to pass external exams and register themselves. These external assessments ensure that candidates meet professional standards.

Courts rely on LLB graduates to interpret legislation and ensure a fair trial process. Businesses and public institutions require legal expertise to manage contracts and minimise risk. The expanding economy also requires the expertise of lawyers trained in specialised areas. 

Some roles that graduates can explore after completing a Regenesys LLB are:

• Assistant Prosecution Officer
• Law Professor or Teacher
• Legal Adviser
• Legal Assistant
• Legal Researcher
• Litigator
• Public Prosecutor

Factors to Consider When Choosing a University

Selecting the right university for an LLB degree requires research and evaluation. While reputation is important, students must check to ensure that the programme aligns with their goals. Additionally, it is important to pick an LLB course that matches your style of studying.

Some factors that should be considered before enrolling for law courses in South Africa are:

• Accreditation
• Financial support
• Flexible study modes
• Class size
• Academic support
• Experienced faculty
• Practical learning environment

Scholarships and Financial Aid Options

The rising cost of LLb courses in South Africa can be a challenge for many students. However, there are various government-backed and private funding sources available in South Africa. These include bursaries, scholarships, and loans.

While bursaries and scholarships do not need to be repaid, they are highly competitive because only a limited number are awarded. Loans can be applied for through private banks and specialised loan providers. These need to be repaid upon completion of the programme.

At Regenesys, we have partnered with several reputable banks to make it easier for students to apply and secure financial aid. Additionally, we also allow students to pay their fees in instalments. This makes it easy to manage costs without applying for a loan.

When applying for financial aid, students should pay attention to the following:

• Application deadlines to ensure they submit their forms in time
• Supporting documents to verify the application details
• Strong academic performance to continue receiving financial aid
• Terms of the reward or loan so students are aware of repayment and work-back agreements

Explore Our Other Programmes

Conclusion

A Bachelor of Laws provides students with the theoretical foundation and applied skills required to practice law in South Africa. Lawyers help to protect individual rights, help businesses conduct transactions, and draft legislation.

When selecting LLB courses in South Africa, it is important for students to evaluate various factors. This helps them to pick a programme that best suits their career and academic goals.

Visit the Regenesys Education website and explore our programme in detail. Enrol now for the next intake. 

FAQs