Accessing higher education in South Africa as a refugee

In a world marked by instability and displacement, refugees face numerous obstacles that extend far beyond the borders of their homeland. One of the most critical challenges they encounter is access to higher education. For refugees, this access is not solely based on their academic excellence or aspirations but is inextricably linked to the policies of their host country. This paper argues that legal classifications imposed by the state significantly impact refugees’ ability to access higher education, shaping their state of belonging and academic and professional futures. Through personal reflection and analysis of the South African context, this paper examines how these classifications influence refugees’ educational journeys and their struggle to escape poverty. The article further contributes to a better understanding of conflict-affected education and the role that non-state actors play in filling the educational gap and offering free educational opportunities with hidden costs.