Study abroad
Study in Lesotho
Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.
About studying in Lesotho
Higher education in Lesotho, in Southern Africa, surrounded by South Africa, gives international students a chance to study in a new academic and cultural setting. Universities and other institutions offer programmes at different levels, from first degrees to postgraduate study, across subjects such as business, engineering, health, science and the humanities.
The economy has strengths in agriculture, healthcare and education, which is reflected in many study options. Because English is an official language, many programmes are taught in English. Start with the subjects available here, then compare institutions, costs and application steps.
Why study in Lesotho?
There is no single reason to study in Lesotho. For some students it is the programme itself; for others it is the setting in Southern Africa, surrounded by South Africa, the language or links to a particular industry. It is worth being clear about what matters most to you before comparing options.
- Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies and Education, PGCE & Teaching, with options differing between universities.
- Industry context: Agriculture, healthcare and education matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
- Cities and campus life: Maseru, Teyateyaneng and Mafeteng each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
- Culture and language: living in Lesotho means everyday contact with Sesotho and English and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.
Talking to current students and reading official course pages will give you a realistic picture of what studying here is like, beyond what any general guide can say.
Top subjects to study in Lesotho
Below is an editorial selection of subject areas often worth exploring in Lesotho. It is not a ranking: the best subject is the one that fits your interests and goals.
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
- Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies
- Education, PGCE & Teaching
- Engineering
- Business & Management
- Computing & Information Technology
Because agriculture, healthcare and education matter locally, students in related fields may find useful context for projects and internships. Each subject has its own page for Lesotho on this site, with its specializations.
It helps to look at specializations within each area as well: two programmes with the same broad subject can lead in quite different directions.
Universities in Lesotho
Higher education in Lesotho is provided by a small number of institutions, so it is worth checking which programmes and qualifications each one offers. Institutions include:
- National University of Lesotho
This is not a ranking or a complete list. When comparing universities, look at the content of the specific programme, entry requirements, the language of teaching, location, support for international students and whether the qualification is recognised where you plan to work.
Some institutions offer preparatory or foundation courses, placements or joint programmes with partners abroad; these can change the length and cost of your studies.
Scholarships to Study in Lesotho
Finding funding for Lesotho takes time, so start looking as soon as you have a shortlist of courses.
- government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Lesotho
- universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
- foundations, charities and international organisations
- research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students
Funding is never guaranteed: check eligibility, deadlines and what the award includes, and have a plan in case you are not successful. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.
Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.
Intakes to study in Lesotho
Start dates in Lesotho are set by each institution, and they can change from year to year.
Plan early. Popular courses can close well before the start date, and international applicants usually need extra time for translations, language tests, scholarship applications and visas. Each institution publishes its own deadlines, so check them for every course on your list.
Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.
A simple planning checklist:
- shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
- prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
- apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
- allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation
Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.
Cost of studying in Lesotho
There is no single price for studying in Lesotho. Fees are set by institutions and differ by course, level and type of institution.
When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:
- application and registration fees
- course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
- health insurance and any visa or permit costs
- accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme
Longer programmes, foundation years and placements all affect the total you will need, so build your budget from the institution’s current published fees.
It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.
Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.
Student visa requirements to study in Lesotho
Rules on studying in Lesotho as a foreign national depend on your citizenship and course, so the first step is to find out which category applies to you.
Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:
- an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
- a valid passport and passport photos
- evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
- health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
- proof of language ability or previous qualifications
Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. The embassy or consulate of Lesotho in your country, and its official immigration authority, are the right places to confirm what applies to you.
Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.
Cost of living in Lesotho
Living costs in Lesotho depend a great deal on where you live and how you live. Costs in Maseru can differ noticeably from those in Teyateyaneng or Mafeteng and smaller towns.
The main costs to plan for are:
- Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
- Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
- Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
- Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
- Insurance and health: any required health cover
- Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life
Universities often publish current estimates of living costs; use them as a starting point and add a buffer for unexpected expenses.
Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.
FAQs about studying in Lesotho
What are the advantages of studying in Lesotho?
It depends on your goals. Lesotho offers programmes across many subjects, a location in Southern Africa, surrounded by South Africa and study in Sesotho and English. Students interested in agriculture, healthcare and education may find the local context especially relevant.
What subjects can I study in Lesotho?
Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies, Education, PGCE & Teaching and Engineering. The subjects page for Lesotho lists every subject available here with its specializations.
When should I apply to universities in Lesotho?
Start dates vary between institutions. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.
How much does it cost to study in Lesotho?
Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.
Do international students need a visa to study in Lesotho?
Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources and the embassy or consulate of Lesotho.
Are scholarships available for international students in Lesotho?
Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.
Where do international students live in Lesotho?
Maseru, Teyateyaneng and Mafeteng are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.
Free counselling
Not sure where to begin?
Explore your study-abroad options with guidance.