Study in Seychelles: Higher Education Guide

Published on October 2, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

The Seychelles, a paradise archipelago in the Indian Ocean, is not just a dream destination for vacationers. This island nation also offers compelling opportunities for expatriates seeking to pursue higher education in an exceptional setting. In this article, we will explore in detail the higher education options available in the Seychelles for adult expatriates, covering essential aspects such as the local university system, admission procedures, degree recognition, and study funding.

The Higher Education System in the Seychelles

The higher education system in the Seychelles is relatively young and rapidly developing. The University of Seychelles (UniSey), founded in 2009, is the country’s main higher education institution. It offers an expanding range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as research opportunities.

Although the Seychellois education system is largely inspired by the British model, it also incorporates elements of the French system, reflecting the archipelago’s history and cultural diversity. This unique characteristic provides international students with an exceptional educational experience, combining academic rigor with cultural openness.

Courses at the University of Seychelles are primarily taught in English, with some programs offering French options. This bilingual approach is a major advantage for French-speaking students looking to improve their English while studying in a linguistically familiar environment.

The university offers programs in various fields, including:

• Environmental Science and Sustainability
• Tourism and Hospitality Management
• Business and Business Administration
• Information and Communication Technology
• Education Sciences
• Law and Political Science

These programs are designed to meet the specific needs of the Seychellois and regional job market while offering an international perspective.

Admission Procedures for International Students

Admission procedures at the University of Seychelles for international students are designed to be accessible and transparent. Here are the main steps to follow:

1. Verification of Academic Prerequisites: Applicants generally need to hold a diploma equivalent to the French baccalauréat or British A-levels for undergraduate programs. For master’s programs, a bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required.

2. Language Proficiency: Good command of English is essential. Non-native English speakers will need to provide a language proficiency certificate such as TOEFL or IELTS.

• The completed application form
• Translated and certified transcripts and diplomas
• A motivation letter
• Letters of recommendation
• A copy of the passport
• A medical certificate

4. Application Fee: Non-refundable processing fees are generally required.

5. Interview: Some programs may require an interview, which can be conducted remotely for international applicants.

6. Conditional Admission: In some cases, conditional admission may be offered, subject to meeting certain requirements before the start of classes.

It is important to note that application deadlines may vary by program and admission session. It is recommended to start the process at least 6 months before the desired start date to ensure enough time to complete all steps of the process.

Degree Recognition and Equivalencies

Recognition of foreign degrees is a crucial aspect for international students wishing to pursue studies in the Seychelles. The country has established an equivalence system managed by the Seychelles Qualifications Authority (SQA), the national body responsible for recognizing and accrediting qualifications.

To have a foreign degree recognized in the Seychelles, the following steps are generally necessary:

1. Document Translation: All academic documents must be translated into English or French by a certified translator.

2. Authentication: Diplomas and transcripts must be authenticated by the issuing institution or by the competent authorities of the country of origin.

3. Submission to SQA: The complete file must be submitted to the Seychelles Qualifications Authority for evaluation.

4. Evaluation: The SQA conducts a detailed evaluation of qualifications by comparing them to Seychellois and international standards.

5. Issuance of Equivalence Certificate: If the evaluation is positive, an equivalence certificate is issued, specifying the corresponding level in the Seychelles National Qualifications Framework.

It is important to note that this process can take several weeks, or even months. It is therefore advisable to begin the process well before the planned university enrollment date.

Furthermore, the University of Seychelles, as an international institution, is generally familiar with foreign education systems and can offer assistance in the preliminary assessment of qualifications during the admission process.

Study Funding and Scholarships

Funding higher education is often a major concern for international students. In the Seychelles, although tuition fees are generally more affordable than in many Western countries, they can still represent a significant investment. Here is an overview of available funding options:

1. Government Scholarships: The Seychellois government offers a limited number of scholarships to international students, mainly through bilateral agreements with other countries. These scholarships generally cover tuition fees and may include a living allowance.

2. University of Seychelles Scholarships: The university offers merit scholarships for international students with exceptional academic records. These scholarships are competitive and may cover part or all of the tuition fees.

3. International Scholarships: Some international organizations, such as the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) or the Commonwealth, offer scholarships to study in the Seychelles in specific fields, particularly related to sustainable development and marine resource management.

4. Student Loans: Although less developed than in Europe or North America, student loan systems exist in the Seychelles. Some local banks offer loans specifically designed for international students, often in partnership with the university.

5. Student Work: International students may be allowed to work part-time during their studies, under certain conditions. This can help cover part of the living expenses.

6. International Cooperation Programs: Some study programs, particularly in the fields of environment and sustainable development, benefit from international funding that may include scholarships for students.

It is crucial to begin funding searches well in advance, as many scholarships have specific application deadlines, often several months before the start of the academic year.

Continuing Professional Training and Online Programs

In addition to traditional academic programs, the Seychelles also offers interesting opportunities in continuing professional training and distance learning, particularly suitable for expatriates already engaged in professional careers.

Continuing Professional Training:

The Human Resource Development Agency (HRDA) of the Seychelles plays a key role in promoting and coordinating continuing professional training. It collaborates with various local and international institutions to offer a range of training programs, including:

• Hotel Management and Tourism
• Business Management and Entrepreneurship
• Information and Communication Technology
• Sustainable Development and Environmental Management
• Languages (English, French, Seychellois Creole)

These trainings are often delivered in modular format, allowing flexibility for working professionals.

Online Programs and Distance Learning:

Recognizing the specific needs of expatriates and professionals, the University of Seychelles and other local institutions are increasingly developing their online program offerings. These programs allow students to benefit from quality education while maintaining the flexibility needed to balance studies and professional life.

Among the available options are:

• Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) on specific Seychelles-related topics, such as marine biodiversity or sustainable tourism
• Online certificate and diploma programs in various fields, often in partnership with international universities
• Hybrid training combining online learning and intensive in-person sessions

International Professional Certifications:

The Seychelles also hosts examination centers for various international professional certifications, such as:

• ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)
• CISCO (computer networking certifications)
• PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors)
• Hotel Management and Tourism Certifications

These certifications are particularly valued in the international context of the Seychelles and can significantly improve expatriates’ career prospects.

Impact of International Training on Career

Pursuing higher education in the Seychelles can have a significant and positive impact on an expatriate’s career, both locally and internationally. Here are some of the main advantages:

1. Expertise in Niche Fields: Study programs in the Seychelles are often focused on specific areas such as environmental management, sustainable tourism, or the blue economy. This specialized expertise can be highly sought after in the international job market.

2. Intercultural Skills: Studying in an environment as diverse as the Seychelles allows for the development of valuable intercultural skills, essential in an increasingly globalized professional world.

3. Language Mastery: The multilingual environment of the Seychelles offers a unique opportunity to improve skills in English and French, two crucial languages in the international business world.

4. International Professional Network: Study programs in the Seychelles attract students and professors from around the world, allowing for the building of a truly international professional network.

5. Experience in an Island Context: The experience gained in the unique context of a small island state can be particularly valued for careers in sustainable development, natural resource management, or responsible tourism.

6. Innovation and Entrepreneurship: The Seychelles setting, with its unique challenges and opportunities, can stimulate innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, qualities highly sought after by employers.

7. Adaptability and Resilience: Living and studying in a foreign environment demonstrates adaptability and resilience that are major assets in many professional sectors.

8. Local Career Prospects: For those wishing to stay in the Seychelles after their studies, local training can open doors in key sectors of the Seychellois economy, including tourism, offshore finance, or marine conservation.

9. International Recognition: Degrees obtained in the Seychelles, particularly those awarded in partnership with recognized international universities, can benefit from good global recognition.

10. Personal Development: Beyond purely professional aspects, the study experience in the Seychelles can contribute to significant personal development, fostering autonomy, self-confidence, and open-mindedness.

Conclusion

Pursuing higher education in the Seychelles offers a unique opportunity to combine quality training with an exceptional life experience in a paradise setting. Whether for a complete university education, a continuing training program, or a professional certification, the Seychelles offers a stimulating and multicultural learning environment.

The major strengths of studying in the Seychelles include the quality of education, the focus on specific areas of expertise such as environment and sustainable tourism, and the opportunity to develop valuable language and intercultural skills. Moreover, the experience gained in this unique island context can prove to be a real springboard for an international career.

However, it is important for expatriates considering studies in the Seychelles to prepare well, both administratively and financially. Early planning, particularly regarding admission procedures, degree recognition, and funding searches, is crucial for a successful experience.

Ultimately, choosing the Seychelles for higher education means opting for much more than just academic training. It means giving yourself a rewarding life experience that can open doors to unique professional opportunities, while contributing to personal development and global awareness.