Cape Town Q&A: From the Perspective of an American Study Abroad Student

I’ve officially been in Cape Town for almost a month now and I have lots to share! I plan to use this blog as an opportunity to tell people about this city from the perspective of an American study abroad student, and to help answer common questions and things I wish I had known about IES Abroad’s Cape Town program before getting here. I look forward to having you all follow along with my posts throughout the duration of my semester abroad! 

Is Cape Town safe? 

Like any urban area, crime exists in Cape Town. Generally speaking, the crime here is mostly opportunistic, like pick pocketing or stolen phones. It’s very important that you stay cognizant and aware of your surroundings to not make yourself a target. I’ve found it to be a good idea to carry a bag that zips and keep it close to me at all times. Besides this, I have found the city to be incredibly welcoming. Although I don’t recommend anyone to walk alone, I have had no issue walking around Cape Town in groups. To sum it up, as long as you travel with others and stay smart, you should not run into any trouble. This advice really applies to any large city. 

Is Cape Town cheap?

The currency exchange rate between ZAR and USD heavily favors the U.S. dollar. The price of transportation, dining, groceries, and other expenses is significantly greater in the U.S. than it is in Cape Town, however it is important to note that although Cape Town might feel inexpensive to foreigners, the city is incredibly expensive for many South Africans. In order to stay respectful, do not openly exclaim about the “cheap” prices in the city. Despite the exchange rate, budgeting your money while abroad is important. Small expenses can quickly add up! 

What are classes at UCT like? 

The structure of courses here at the University of Cape Town has many parallels to my home university. There are some relatively large lectures that meet approximately three times a week, plus a small “tutorial” group, which is just like the recitations I have at school. I am an economics student, but here at UCT I am enrolled in the faculty of humanities. I can only speak to my own class experience, but besides some administrative differences the classes are pretty similar to what I’ve seen in the U.S. One major difference is the grading scale. Any grade between 75-100% is categorized as an A, but only about 6% of students will receive an A on any given assignment. 

What’s there to do in Cape Town? 

Basically anything you could want! This is truly an incredible city with so much to see and do. The beaches are amazing despite the cold water coming up from the Arctic Ocean. There are plenty of different hiking trails and mountains to climb. The best views are at sunrise at Lion’s Head! Cape Town also has an incredibly vibrant nightlife. The first Thursday of every month is an especially big night for going out downtown. Many museums, art galleries, restaurants, and bars offer special deals and discounts on first Thursdays. No matter what your idea of a fun night is, Cape Town has something for you. 

How are the IES Abroad Accommodations? 

I was pleasantly surprised with the dorms! This semester, the IES Abroad students are split into two different residence halls, about a kilometer apart from one another. Both aren’t too far from campus, so the walk is very easy. But if walking isn’t your thing, UCT has buses, or “jammies”, that transport students to campus. I reside in a single studio dorm, equipped with a kitchenette, a full bathroom, a bed, desk, and wardrobe. IES Abroad provided us with all the necessary cookware, linens, and cutlery we need for the semester. The other residence is similar, but with a two person apartment, but each student has their own bedroom. Both residences have laundry machines, a gym, lounge spaces, and even a cleaning crew who help tidy up your rooms. There are no meal plans, so students cook for themselves. There are several grocery stores within walking distance, as well as grocery delivery services.