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14 English Language Schools in Cape Town Ranking 2024

English language course in Cape Town from 
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Cape Town
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Best English schools in Cape Town by category - student age group, value for money

TOP Rated by
Students 18-30 years
EC English
Students 18-30 years
4.2

Rating: 4.2

(5)
TOP Rated by
Students 31-49 years
UCT English Language Centre
Students 31-49 years
4.8

Rating: 4.8

(4)
TOP Rated by
Students 50+ years
Study & Live in your Teacher's Home
Students 50+ years
5.0

Rating: 5

(2)
TOP Rated by
Students all ages
Study & Live in your Teacher's Home
Students all ages
5.0

Rating: 5

(3)
TOP Rated by
Quality of teaching
Study & Live in your Teacher's Home
Quality of teaching
5.0

Rating: 5

(3)
TOP Rated by
Value for money
Good Hope Studies
Value for money
4.4

Rating: 4.4

(9)
TOP Rated by
Location of school
EC English
Location of school
5.0

Rating: 5

(5)

Cape Town's language schools ranking

based on student ratings
Interested in online courses?
Have a look at our top picks of Live Online English courses at the best prices.

Map with location of English schools in Cape Town

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Cape Town ratings & opinions

How our students rated their experience in Cape Town

4.6

Rating: 4.6/5.0

Overall attractiveness of Cape Town
122 authentic ratings from students who reserved a course with us in Cape Town
Nightlife
4.0

Rating: 4.0/5.0

Friendliness of locals
4.5

Rating: 4.5/5.0

Interesing things to do
4.8

Rating: 4.8/5.0

Geographic setting
4.9

Rating: 4.9/5.0

Public transport
3.9

Rating: 3.9/5.0

Climate
4.8

Rating: 4.8/5.0

Cleanliness
3.9

Rating: 3.9/5.0

Affordability
4.4

Rating: 4.4/5.0

Shopping
4.5

Rating: 4.5/5.0

Safety
3.4

Rating: 3.4/5.0

What our students said about Cape Town

5.0

Rating: 5/5

On one hand, wonderful opportunities: Ocean, warmth, great architecture, Kirstenbosch Garden, Winelands, safari, animals, interesting history, lots of diversity, friendly people.
On the other hand, poverty, corruption, high crime - many students had to experience crime: robbery, theft.

Sylvia
Germany
5.0

Rating: 5/5

What stood out to me was the friendliness and helpfulness of the people. Very clean city. The strong police presence gives a feeling of security. During the day it's not a problem, but at night you should know which ways to go. Otherwise, I was very enthusiastic about the city and the people.

Heike
Germany
4.0

Rating: 4/5

It deserves to be visited at least once in a lifetime, spectacular and with many things to do. However, I don't know if it is the ideal city for learning English, although the classes and staff are of a very good standard, on the streets almost no one is a native English speaker.

Piero
Italy
5.0

Rating: 5/5

Cape Town is definitely not one of the safest places in the world, but for me it is definitely one of the most beautiful in the world. #happyPlace

Anja
Germany
4.0

Rating: 4/5

The city is dirty, lots of homeless people, not safe, phone can be ripped out of your hands, the nature around the city is very beautiful.

Pavel
Russia
5.0

Rating: 5/5

A metropolis that is definitely worth getting to know

Caroline
Germany
5.0

Rating: 5/5

...that I will probably have to come again. :-)

Claudia
Germany
5.0

Rating: 5/5

A lot of interesting places to visit

Irena
Poland

What school directors said about Cape Town

Wolfgang Graser

Cape Town has; a very low cost of living, great weather all year round, friendly people, very clear spoken English, has a rich history, world-renowned natural beauty surfing, hiking, safari, is an adventure paradise, has a modern infrastructure and is a young and vibrant city.

Wolfgang GraserDirector of Good Hope Studies, lives in Cape Town since 1995
Gavin Eyre

Cape Town is such a wonderful city that has so much to offer. It is one of the most naturally beautiful and culturally diverse places. If you like to surf, Cape Town’s beaches are great. If you like to hike, you can hike any of the many mountains, Table Mountain, Lion’s Head or Devil’s Peak, just to mention the most famous ones. If you like wine, you have the choice of hundreds of amazing and unique wine farms. If you are a foodie, you can find some of the finest restaurants in the world and try lots of different cuisines. If you like to escape European winter, come and visit during our summer. Cape Town is also comparatively cheap which makes it the perfect place to visit for your English language travel.

Gavin EyreDirector of International House, lives in Cape Town since 1995

Cape Town is offering something for everyone: culture, outdoor activities, wildlife, vibrant night life.

Mechtild BraxmaierDirector of Language Teaching Centre, LTC, lives in Cape Town since 1980

Most recent student reviews of language schools in Cape Town

Good Hope Studies

My teacher, Sharon, was great. Exchange with other students. Everything was great.

27 February 2024
Course: General English 20 - 2 weeks
Student age: 61 years

4.2

Rating: 4.2

| 12 reviews
UCT English Language Centre

Good grammar teaching, strict at the time of the exam.

16 December 2023
Course: Semi Intensive English - 12 weeks
Student age: 38 years

4.7

Rating: 4.7

| 12 reviews
EF International Language Center

Good environment, teachers, everything is good. The programme is good. Well done.
All good, thanks !

29 August 2023
Course: Intensive Course - 2 weeks
Student age: 53 years

5.0

Rating: 5

| 1 review
Good Hope Studies

Classes at the school were good, even the afternoon activities. Also the locations of both school sites were good.
The teachers are helpful and the staff is ready to listen to any of your needs. I thank them for their help.

31 March 2023
Course: General English 20 - 8 weeks
Student age: 25 years

4.2

Rating: 4.2

| 12 reviews
UCT English Language Centre

I really liked the organization. It's well structured and easy to adapt to even when you're new.

3 January 2023
Course: General English - 8 weeks
Student age: 44 years

4.7

Rating: 4.7

| 12 reviews
UCT English Language Centre

- University feeling on campus with many other students
- Good contact person availability, good organisation

23 November 2022
Course: Intensive General English - 4 weeks
Student age: 28 years

4.7

Rating: 4.7

| 12 reviews
UCT English Language Centre

- the buildings of the Hiddingh campus are impressive and the study of the English language takes place together with the study of theatre and fine arts
- unfortunately it was semester break
- the teachers were very motivated, committed and creative
- this refers to the choice of topics and varied lesson design
- Interesting current topics were chosen: Environment, countries' stereotypes of people, slavery; (we visited a museum during class - Slave Lodge), women's rights - was especially exciting as there were only young Saudi Arabian men in my class
- scientific writing and also creative writing were practised.
- The highlight for me was the tutorial system - I didn't know it yet.

4 February 2022
Course: General English - 4 weeks
Student age: 61 years

4.7

Rating: 4.7

| 12 reviews
EC English

For me it was very productive time. Before I thought that I have pre-intermediate level, but I sat the level-test and was intermediate, which I was glad to discover! But for me it wasn’t enough, I pushed myself to study a lot, it was not in vain. Now I have Upper intermediate. The main thing is you should work hardest and productive. Enjoy you time with this school.

24 May 2021
Course: General English 30 - 6 weeks
Student age: 30 years

4.4

Rating: 4.4

| 11 reviews
International House

The way to and from school on the beach was great. It's really beautiful.
If someone doesn't feel comfortable at the school, just let them out of the contract. In other schools, this is possible and it helps everyone. Money is important but not always. The school looks like it's in the 90s and is no longer up to date.

17 December 2019
Course: Intensive English - 8 weeks
Student age: 54 years

1.0

Rating: 1

| 2 reviews
International House

nothing
Extremely bad organization and unmotivated staff, especially at the front desk. Older students who had English in school many years ago are given a poor rating by the placement test and sit in a class with students who have never spoken English in their lives.

25 November 2019
Course: Intensive English - 2 weeks
Student age: 44 years

1.0

Rating: 1

| 2 reviews
EC English

the way the teacher speaks with the students in class they are very nice

10 August 2014
Course: General English 20 - 2 weeks
Student age: 19 years

4.4

Rating: 4.4

| 11 reviews
Anderson Americo MazangaEC English
EC English

The different teachers, their kindness, and the events which have been organized by the school.

4 February 2013
Course: General English 30 - 3 weeks
Student age: 103 years

4.4

Rating: 4.4

| 11 reviews
StephanEC English
EC English

The different teachers, their kindness, and the events which have been organized by the school.

4 February 2013
Course: General English 30 - 3 weeks
Student age: 103 years

4.4

Rating: 4.4

| 11 reviews
StephanEC English
EC English

The different teachers, their kindness, and the events which have been organized by the school.

4 February 2013
Course: General English 30 - 3 weeks
Student age: 103 years

4.4

Rating: 4.4

| 11 reviews
StephanEC English
EC English

The different teachers, their kindness, and the events which have been organized by the school.

4 February 2013
Course: General English 30 - 3 weeks
Student age: 103 years

4.4

Rating: 4.4

| 11 reviews
StephanEC English
Good Hope Studies

I like the professionalism and helpfulness of all the teaching and school staff, they made me feel so good.

21 October 2010
Course: Intensive - 1 week
Student age: 34 years

4.2

Rating: 4.2

| 12 reviews

Information about Cape Town

Why Cape Town? With its stunning location and surrounding beauty of wild, white-sand beaches, Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Affectionately nicknamed the Mother City, the city is the epicentre of South Africa's Western Cape region. The city keeps busy with markets selling crafts, food and textiles, European fashion boutiques, art galleries, luxury hotels and backpacker lodges. Outside the city lies the impeccable beaches, fringed with pretty towns and mansions ending in the beautiful Cape Point nature reserve.
Population:   4,710,000
Time zone: +12h. (GMT +2)
Region: Western Cape, City of Cape Town
Currency: ZAR (1 ZAR = 0.0530 USD)
Visa: Nationals from USA do not require a visa to study short term courses up to 90 days. Check visa requirements for nationals from other countries.
Visa requirements data last updated on 01 Dec. 2022 (Source)
For the most up-to-date visa information please consult with the embassy or consulate of South Africa in your country. List of embassies and consulates of South Africa on the official website - International Relations and Cooperation South Africa.
High season: January
Low season: April
Average course price per week (High season): 538 €
Average course price per week (Low season): 4,777 ZAR
Cost of Living:
* 100 = prices in New York
  • Price index excluding rent: 49* (51% cheaper than New York)
  • Price index including rent: 41* (59% cheaper than New York)
  • Price index food only:42* (59% cheaper than New York)
  • Big Mac price (South Africa average): 44.14 ZAR
    (55% cheaper than in USA)
Mains electricity:
  • Plug Type C
  • Plug Type F
  • Plug Type M
  • Plug Type N
  • Residential voltage: 230 V
  • Frequency: 50 Hz
Climate Table
Legend:
Midday Temperature
Night-time Temperature
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec45 °F50 °F55 °F60 °F65 °F70 °F75 °F80 °FTemperature in °F
Hours of Sunshine
1210986667891011
Water Temperature
64.4 °F66.2 °F66.2 °F64.4 °F62.6 °F60.8 °F59 °F57.2 °F59 °F60.8 °F62.6 °F64.4 °F
Rainfall
20mm20mm30mm50mm70mm90mm100mm70mm50mm40mm20mm20mm
Best time to take a language course in Cape Town
April
Two Oceans Marathon
Two Oceans Marathon

12 April 2024 - 14 April 2024The Two Oceans Marathon in Cape Town is an an iconic local event whose main event is their long and arduous 56km Ultra Marathon, but also typically offers a 21.1km Half Maraton and even shorter Fun Runs. The event attracts both elite and recreational runners, and is a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Cape Town.

Pick n Pay Food
Pick n Pay Food

27 April 2024 - 28 April 2024Hosted by the popular South African supermarket chain, Pick n Pay, this festival offers participants a chance to sample a wide range of gourmet food, fine wines, and artisanal products. The festival often features live cooking demonstrations, entertainment, and a fun-filled atmosphere.

September
Hermanus Whale Festival
Hermanus Whale Festival

27 September 2024 - 29 September 2024The Hermanus Whale Festival is an annual event celebrating the whales' migration along the South African coast. It typically features whale-watching opportunities, marine-themed activities, live music, food stalls, and an energetic atmosphere. The festival aims to raise awareness about marine conservation and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists eager to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

December
New Year's Eve
New Year's Eve

31 December 2024 - 01 January 4049There are parties all over the city and surrounding areas, but the biggest and best of them all is the one at the Victoria

Clifton Beaches
Clifton Beaches
Rhodes Memorial
Rhodes Memorial
Groot Constantia
Groot Constantia
Cape of Good Hope
Cape of Good Hope
Boulders Penguin Colony
Boulders Penguin Colony
Table Mountain Aerial Cableway
Table Mountain Aerial Cableway
Cape Town
Cape Town video thumbnail
Cape Town International (CPT) - 17 km. from Cape Town city center

Public transportation to city center:

Every 30 minutes, 30 minutes.

Main stops: Airport, Civic Centre

Taxi: 20 minutes drive to city center of Cape Town

Q&A - Questions and answers about Cape Town

  • You can change your cash in Cape Town. You can find bureaux de change at the airport. For smaller amounts you can change money locally, but for larger amounts you should really think about getting a credit card. Airports usually have less favourable exchange rates.
    Martin Zakostelecky, LanguageCourse.Net - Nov 21, 2023
  • It works exclusively cashless (except on the airport bus). You have to buy a Myconnect card once at the larger bus stops (MyCiTi kiosks) or in shops along the routes (Spar supermarkets, petrol stations, cafés, etc.) and top it up with credit.
    Martin Zakostelecky, LanguageCourse.Net - Nov 21, 2023
  • At the time of writing, the school Bayswater is offering a family programme for families, for adults and children aged 10 and up.
    Ana Carolina Dos Santos, LanguageCourse.Net - Apr 21, 2023
  • If you cannot find any Business courses in Cape Town it means we don't currently work with any schools offering these type of courses. However, please feel free to contact us if you would be interested in private lessons with focus on Business English, and we will be happy to check what we can offer.
    Louise Granath, LanguageCourse.Net - Feb 07, 2023

FAQ about schools in Cape Town

  • To register on our site, you do not need to provide any documents.
    Once you have chosen a course and a school, simply click on the RESERVE A COURSE button to be automatically redirected to the registration form.
    After completing your form, you will be taken to a secure payment page where you can enter your payment details for the deposit, which is required to reserve your place.
    Madly Simba, Language Travel Consultant from LanguageCourse.Net - Mar 14, 2023
  • We would recommend you to combine the group course with some individual classes. In our experience this lets you learn a lot more in a shorter period of time. During the one-to-one classes you will get to focus, not only on your interests, but also on subjects where you may need a little extra help. There is a special field in the registration form to request extra private lessons, if you are interested.
    Madly Simba, FR Consultant from LanguageCourse.net - Jul 07, 2022

Other destinations that were popular to combine with courses in Cape Town

Johannesburg (city thumbnail)Johannesburg
2 schools
Didn't find what you are looking for?
Interested in language travel to other cities? Have a look at English language schools in other cities in South Africa such as Johannesburg, Port Elizabeth, Pretoria or see our list of all schools in South Africa. You may also want to consult options outside South Africa for learning English.

Questions about English schools in Cape Town?

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