Michaelhouse – South Africa’s second most expensive private school – has recorded the highest intake in its 130-year history.
The prestigious all-boys boarding school is located in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.
MICHAELHOUSE RECORDS HIGHEST INTAKE IN HISTORY
On its social media platform, Michaelhouse revealed it had accepted the largest Grade 8 intake in its 130-year history.
The KZN private school welcomed 129 boys from five provinces and eight countries beyond South African borders.
The intake represents 58 feeder schools around South Africa and neighbouring countries, with many stemming from prestigious private primary schools, such as Clifton Prep, Nottingham Road, Cordwalles, and Highbury.
“Jack” and “Michael” were the most popular names recorded in the class of 2030.
“The Midlands was bathing in spectacular sunny weather when the new men of Michaelhouse were welcomed to their home for the next five years by the staff and prefects.
“Senior Prefect for 2026, Max Oliva, offered words of advice and was quick to sum up his own Michaelhouse experience with a single word: Brotherhood, encouraging his 130 little brothers to make the most of the time, support, and opportunities which await them in Balgowan to become the best that they can be.”
Today Michaelhouse threw open its gates to the largest Grade 8 intake in its 130-year history. 129 boys hailing from…
Posted by Michaelhouse on Sunday 11 January 2026
HOW MUCH ARE MICHAELHOUSE’S SCHOOL FEES?
Michaelhouse is known for its long waiting list, with many parents submitting applications years in advance.
Currently, the school fees stand at around R417 000, or close to R40 000 each month.
Once accepted into the school, parents must pay a non-refundable fee of R75 000 to secure a spot. Parents of learners not residing in South Africa must fork out R196 000, of which R75 000 is refundable.
MOST EXPENSIVE PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN SOUTH AFRICA
Here are the Top 10 most expensive private schools in South Africa in 2026:
- Hilton College – R450 893 pa
- MichaelHouse – R417 000 pa
- Roedean School for Girls – R413 095 pa
- St Andrew’s College – R409 815 oa
- Kearsney College – R399 740 pa
- St John’s College – R397 302 5 pa
- Bishops College – R386 300 pa
- St Mary’s – R382 215 pa
- Diocesan School for Girls – R368100 pa
MICHAELHOUSE ALUMNI
Michaelhouse boasts several prominent past pupils. They include:
- Former Springbok Pat Lambie
- Musician The Kiffness
- ‘Spud’ author John van der Ruit
- Former Proteas captain Alan Melville
- Businessman Mark Suzman
