Whether you’re a high school student, university learner, or someone trying to upskill from home, free online courses are a game-changer. With access to global platforms and South African resources, you can study almost anything, from digital skills to entrepreneurship, for free.
Here’s a list of top free online courses South African students can take;
Table of Contents
1. University of Cape Town (UCT) Free Online Courses
UCT offers several MOOCS (Massive Open Online Courses) via platforms like Coursera and FutureLearn.
Popular Courses:
- Understanding Clinical Research
- Becoming a Changemaker
- Education for All: Disability, Diversity and Inclusion
2. Google Digital Skills for Africa
Google offers a wide range of digital skills training, from basic computer use to advanced career development.
Popular Courses:
- Fundamentals of Digital Marketing (with certificate)
- Get a Business Online
- Promote a Business with Online Advertising
TIP: Learn with Google Africa.
3. Coursera Free Courses (With Financial Aid)
Coursera partners with top universities globally and offers financial aid to access paid certificates for free.
Recommended Courses:
- Data Science by Johns Hopkins University
- Public Speaking by the University of Washington
- Python for Everybody by the University of Michigan
TIP: Apply for financial aid
4. Alison Free Online Learning
Alison provides certified courses in education, IT, business, and more.
Top Picks:
- Diploma in Project Management
- Introduction to Human Resources
- Basic English Grammar
TIP: Explore Alison Courses
5. SAYouth.mobi Learning Hub
SAYouth offers free skills development resources and short courses via their zero-rated platform (no data required on most SA networks).
Topics Include:
- CV writing
- Interview skills
- Entrepreneurship basics
TIP: Visit SAYouth.mobi
6. LinkedIn Learning via Public Libraries
Some municipal libraries in South Africa provide free access to LinkedIn Learning. Ask your local library if they offer it!
Examples of Courses:
- Leadership and Management
- Graphic Design Tools
- Excel for Beginners
7. Microsoft Learn
For students interested in tech, coding, and cloud computing, Microsoft Learn offers in-depth tutorials and interactive labs.
Great For:
- Learning Azure, Microsoft 365, and coding
- Students in IT, Computer Science, or Data Analysis
TIP: Visit Microsoft Learn.
8. Khan Academy
Perfect for high school students and university-level maths, science, economics, and test prep.
Subjects Covered:
- Mathematics (Grades 8–12)
- Physics, Chemistry, Biology
- Personal Finance
TIP: Visit Khan Academy.
9. Vodacom e-School
A zero-rated platform for Grades R–12, with free access to lessons aligned with the South African CAPS curriculum.
Features:
- Video lessons
- Quizzes and tests
- Supports English and isiZulu
TIP: Register at Vodacom e-School
10. FutureLearn Short Courses
In partnership with UK and SA universities, FutureLearn provides short online courses on almost every topic.
Explore Courses In:
- Law and Politics
- Health and Psychology
- Language and Teaching
TIP: Browse FutureLearn
DON’T FORGET TO DO THIS
- Create a learning schedule to stay consistent
- Use your email to track certificates
- Some platforms are data-free, perfect if you’re low on airtime
- Add certificates to your CV or LinkedIn profile
Education is no longer limited to the classroom. With free online courses, every South African student can boost their skills from anywhere, no fees, no limits.
