"They Look Like Hotels": Most Expensive Schools in South Africa Revealed, Mzansi Stunned

• A video went viral after revealing the country’s expensive private schools, with annual fees reaching hundreds of thousands of rand
• The list showcased institutions known for their academic excellence, impressive facilities, and prestigious reputations
• Netizens contrasted these elite schools and the education most South Africans experience, leading to debates about access and value

South Africans have been discussing the issue after a video revealed the staggering annual fees of the country’s most exclusive schools, prompting reflection on the quality of education and inequality.

A recent video shared by TikTok user @bonganimabuzacoach has sparked widespread interest after listing the top ten most expensive schools in South Africa. In the clip, the man runs through the annual fees of each institution, with some surpassing the price of many university degrees. The figures highlight the cost of premium education in the country and the prestige attached to these elite schools.

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At number ten is the Diocesan School for Girls, where the annual fees stand at R345,000. This well-established school is known for its academic excellence and rich traditions. Number nine is St Albans in Pretoria, with fees of R353 000 per year, offering a strong academic and sporting programme. At number eight is St Mary’s in Pretoria, charging R358 000 annually, a school that has earned a reputation for producing confident and capable graduates.

Bishops College in Cape Town takes the seventh spot, with yearly fees of R365 000. It is widely recognised for its academic achievements and impressive campus. At number six is Kearsney College in Durban, at R374 000 per year, an institution with a strong focus on leadership and personal growth. St John’s College is fifth, with fees of R376 000 annually, known for its rigorous academic environment and commitment to character development.

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The fourth position goes to Roedean School in Johannesburg, with annual fees of R387 000. Roedean is famed for its rich history and dedication to empowering young women. Sharing a similar fee is St Andrew’s College at number three, a school that blends tradition with modern education.

In second place is Michaelhouse in KwaZulu-Natal, with annual fees of R392 000. Known for its distinctive boarding culture, Michaelhouse offers a holistic education that combines academics, sport and cultural activities. Topping the list is Hilton College, also in KwaZulu-Natal, with fees of R420 000 per year, making it the most expensive school in the country. Hilton’s sprawling campus, exceptional facilities and high academic standards have cemented its place at the pinnacle of South African private education.

Elite private schools spark national debate

While the fees are undeniably steep, these schools offer an educational experience that many believe justifies the cost, with world-class facilities, small class sizes and a strong network of alumni. The video has sparked conversations online about the value of education, access to quality schooling, and the stark contrast between elite institutions and the average South African school experience.

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Mzansi reacted to the video

Zethu Nxele said:

"Hilton College is like a hotel; the facilities and atmosphere are absolutely stunning, it feels more like a luxury resort than a school."

Nkosi Nyeleka wrote:

"I went to Hilton College, and even though I was there delivering school books, I couldn’t help but admire how beautiful and well-maintained the entire place was."

uNolwethu added:

"Oksalayo sibhala i phepha elifanyo ka matric, no matter how fancy the school, at the end of the day, we all write the same matric exam."

Seeno commented:

"But we all meet at university in the end, no matter which school we attended, and that’s what really brings everyone together."

MaLacostaGP wrote:

"Which means Crawford, Ashton, and Curro are not actually the most expensive schools, Hilton really takes the crown in that department."

Grootmaan Ley' Ntwana said:

"They made me believe Curro was the most expensive in South Africa, but Hilton College completely changed that perception."

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Sipho Ngomane added:

"Kanti, where is Aprendo? I always thought that school would be among the most expensive in the country."

Zuko Gwala commented:

"I know a phara who went to Hilton College, and hearing his stories made me realise just how privileged that experience is."

Check out the TikTok video below:

3 Briefly News stories about private schools in SA

• Michaelhouse College is one of South Africa's most prestigious private schools with a rich heritage.
• A woman revealed how much money she spent on her child's private school stationery in a TikTok video.
• Layla Kolbe, the wife of Springbok star Cheslin Kolbe, made a joke about private school moms after a trip to the hair salon.

Source: Briefly News