CNS Undergraduates are eligible to join a staff-led medical shadowing program in Cape Town, South Africa. This immersive program gives students the chance to shadow in clinics alongside local healthcare teams while experiencing the culture, history, and natural beauty of the Cape Peninsula. Students spend their weekdays at community clinics and their afternoons, evenings, and weekends exploring the city through guided cultural excursions, a township tour, and a private game reserve safari.
Applications for this program are now open! Scroll to the bottom to learn more about eligibility and to start your application.
Program Highlights
- Shadow at clinics in small groups alongside local healthcare professionals
- Excursions to Table Mountain, Cape Point, Robben Island, and Boulders Beach
- Historical and cultural tours of District Six, Bo-Kaap, and Greenmarket Square
- Welcome dinner featuring a 14-dish Pan-African tasting menu
-
Safari day at Aquila Private Game Reserve, home to the Big Five
What's Included
- Airport pick-up on arrival and transfer to the airport on departure
- Shared apartment accommodation in convenient Observatory neighborhood
- Daily breakfast, lunch (packed or stipend), and dinner (stipend)
- A full program of cultural excursions and site visits
- Safety and security orientation briefing
-
On-the-ground team support throughout the program
2027 Program Dates
| Program Dates | May 6 – May 23, 2027 |
| Arrival | Friday, May 7 (travel day May 6) |
| Departure | Saturday, May 22 (transfer 4 hours before international flight; travel day May 23) |
| This program is ideal for students interested in medicine, global health, and experiential learning abroad. It offers a unique chance to apply classroom knowledge in an international setting while building professional skills and cultural competency. |
Cost & Eligibility
- Participants must be current CNS undergraduates graduating in May 2027 or later
- Junior or Senior standing preferred
- Scholarship support is available applicants can complete an additional essay in the application to be considered (Please note this program is not eligible for the CNS SELF Fellowship)
- Attendance of info session or office hours required for acceptance
- Estimated program fee: $3,300 per student
- Student out of pocket costs: ~$2,300
| Item | Estimated Cost |
| Program fee (housing, food, shadowing, excursions) | $3,300 |
| Airfare (biggest cost) | $1,600-$2,000 |
| Travel insurance (required) | $90-$120 |
| Passport (if needed) | $100–$180 |
| Total estimated student cost | $5,600 |
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is home to some of the most impressive and gorgeous natural wonders. These include the iconic Table Mountain, the expansive Cape Point Nature Reserve, Lion’s Head and its panoramic views, calming Newlands Forest, not-for-the-faint-hearted Devil’s Peak, vibing Camps Bay beach, endless tidal pools perfect for sheltered dips, the ideal walking and running spot – Sea Point promenade, lush and green Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, and so so much more.
In Cape Town, sports are a vibrant part of community life. Soccer, rugby, and cricket are widely enjoyed, with local teams garnering passionate support. Beyond traditional sports, Cape Town offers a playground for adventure enthusiasts, with activities like surfing, windsurfing, hiking, abseiling, cycling
and more.
Compared to other destinations, Cape Town offers an affordable travel solution – especially for those coming from Europe, the UK, or North America. You can enjoy world-class activities, dining and accommodation at a fraction of the cost when compared to costs back home. Transport is cheap and reliable, and you can use excellent domestic flights to explore the rest of South Africa on a budget.
South Africans are renowned for their warm and welcoming hospitality, creating a friendly and inviting atmosphere for both locals and visitors. The nation’s cultural diversity is mirrored in the open-minded and inclusive nature of its people.
Want to learn more, watch the info session recording and get updates on the program?
Follow the link below to join the interest list.
Application Eligibility and Requirements
- Due by November 1, 2026
- Priority for students with junior or senior standing
- Application includes 2 short essays and a recommendation form.
- Two essays focusing on:
- What personally and/or academically do you hope to gain from this experience? What about Medical Shadowing in Cape Town specifically appeals to you?
- How are you a good fit for the program? Think about your background and experiences both on and off-campus.
- Recommendation Survey: a brief recommendation from a UT faculty member, graduate teaching assistant, or UT staff.You will be asked to provide the name and email of your recommender. They will automatically sent the survey when you submit your application.
- Two essays focusing on:
Applications are now open! Follow the link to apply.
Want more guidance? CNS Undergraduates can make a “Study Abroad & International Opportunities Advising" Appointment with our team in 12twenty@Texas.