Top 10 Most Expensive Schools In South Africa – Education is one of the most valuable investments a parent can make in a child’s future. In South Africa, some private schools not only promise world-class academic excellence but also provide a holistic experience through top-tier facilities, extracurricular programs, and international exposure. As of 2025, the country continues to boast some of the continent’s most prestigious and expensive schools. In this article, we take an in-depth look at the top 10 most expensive schools in South Africa, what makes them stand out, and why they command such high tuition fees.
1. Hilton College
Annual Tuition (2025): Approx. R397,000 (boarding only)
Hilton College, located in KwaZulu-Natal, is a renowned all-boys boarding school founded in 1872. The institution offers a traditional English public-school model with an emphasis on character development, leadership, and academic excellence.
Why So Expensive?
- Full boarding school model with no day scholars.
- Exceptional sports facilities including a 9-hole golf course, equestrian centre, and cricket ovals.
- A 1,700-hectare estate with its own wildlife reserve.
- Small class sizes and individualized attention.
2. Michaelhouse
Annual Tuition (2025): Approx. R385,000 (boarding only)
Michaelhouse, also in KwaZulu-Natal, is another prestigious boys’ boarding school established in 1896. Known for its strong Anglican traditions, Michaelhouse is a member of the elite “Top Schools” group.
Why So Expensive?
- Full boarding with top-tier pastoral care.
- Advanced music, drama, and art centres.
- Emphasis on sports, particularly rugby, cricket, and rowing.
- Highly qualified academic staff with low student-teacher ratios.
3. Roedean School (SA)
Annual Tuition (2025): Approx. R370,000 (boarding), R250,000 (day)
Roedean School for Girls in Johannesburg is known for blending academic rigour with a rich cultural and sporting heritage. The school was founded in 1903 and maintains close ties to its sister school in the UK.
Why So Expensive?
- Historic and modern facilities including art studios, a state-of-the-art science centre, and aquatic centre.
- Strong emphasis on the arts, debating, and public speaking.
- International exchange programs.
- Safe, secure boarding environment with small numbers.
4. St Andrew’s College
Annual Tuition (2025): Approx. R365,000 (boarding)
Located in Makhanda (Grahamstown), St Andrew’s College is a leading Anglican boys’ boarding school founded in 1855.
Why So Expensive?
- Rich traditions and strong emphasis on leadership and community service.
- Extensive sports programs with world-class facilities.
- Academic excellence with a choice of Cambridge or IEB curriculum.
- Beautiful historic campus with modern boarding houses.
5. St Mary’s School, Waverley
Annual Tuition (2025): Approx. R360,000 (boarding), R240,000 (day)
Founded in 1888, St Mary’s School is a private Anglican school for girls situated in Johannesburg. It is celebrated for its commitment to the holistic development of young women.
Why So Expensive?
- Exceptional arts, music, and drama departments.
- Advanced sporting facilities including squash courts, an aquatic centre, and hockey fields.
- Global citizenship and outreach initiatives.
- Boarding that provides a home-away-from-home atmosphere.
6. Bishops Diocesan College
Annual Tuition (2025): Approx. R355,000 (boarding), R230,000 (day)
Commonly known as Bishops, this private Anglican boys’ school is located in Cape Town and was established in 1849.
Why So Expensive?
- Focus on academic excellence and a wide range of subject choices.
- Extensive co-curricular activities including music, drama, and debating.
- Modern sports facilities with a strong tradition in rugby, water polo, and cricket.
- State-of-the-art boarding houses designed for comfort and learning.
7. St John’s College
Annual Tuition (2025): Approx. R350,000 (boarding), R225,000 (day)
St John’s College in Johannesburg is a world-class Anglican school for boys, founded in 1898.
Why So Expensive?
- Strong academic reputation with outstanding matric results.
- Integrated technology programs.
- Cultural enrichment through music, visual arts, and drama.
- Prestigious sporting traditions and well-maintained grounds.
8. Kingswood College
Annual Tuition (2025): Approx. R340,000 (boarding)
Based in Makhanda (Grahamstown), Kingswood College is an independent co-educational Methodist school with a rich history dating back to 1894.
Why So Expensive?
- Full boarding with modern facilities.
- Strong focus on holistic education — balancing academics, sports, and service.
- Emphasis on outdoor education and leadership development.
- Nurturing environment that fosters individual growth.
9. Kearsney College
Annual Tuition (2025): Approx. R335,000 (boarding)
Situated near Durban, Kearsney College is an independent boys’ school established in 1921.
Why So Expensive?
- Emphasis on academic and sporting excellence.
- Superb boarding facilities, ensuring personal care.
- High-level music, drama, and art programs.
- Beautiful, expansive campus with mountain views.
10. St Stithians College
Annual Tuition (2025): Approx. R330,000 (boarding), R220,000 (day)
Located in Johannesburg, St Stithians is a Methodist school offering separate boys’ and girls’ colleges within one large campus.
Why So Expensive?
- Comprehensive facilities including aquatic and sports centres.
- Focus on academic rigour and innovation.
- Strong spiritual and ethical grounding.
- Leadership and service as core pillars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What makes these schools so expensive?
These schools offer exceptional education with small class sizes, world-class facilities, top-qualified teachers, full boarding options, and diverse co-curricular programs. They also invest heavily in pastoral care, technology, and infrastructure.
2. Are scholarships or financial aid available at these schools?
Yes, many of these institutions offer scholarships and bursaries for academics, sports, arts, or financial need. However, competition is fierce, and awards may not cover full tuition.
3. Is boarding compulsory at these schools?
At schools like Hilton College and Michaelhouse, full boarding is compulsory. Others, such as Roedean, Bishops, and St Mary’s, offer both boarding and day options.
4. Do high fees guarantee better education?
While these schools provide exceptional opportunities and resources, educational success also depends on the individual student’s effort, support, and the overall school environment.
5. Are these schools open to international students?
Yes, many of these schools welcome international students and offer assistance with boarding, visas, and integration into the school community.
6. How do these schools rank academically?
These schools consistently achieve excellent results in national (IEB) and international exams (Cambridge), and their graduates often go on to top universities locally and abroad.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions for any family. The most expensive schools in South Africa in 2025 represent institutions that go beyond academics — they offer environments designed to nurture future leaders, innovators, and global citizens. While the fees are high, many parents see the value in the comprehensive education, personal growth opportunities, and lifelong networks that these schools provide.
Before enrolling your child, it’s wise to visit the school, talk to staff and current families, and ensure the school’s values align with your child’s needs and aspirations.
