How to Find Jobs at MSC Cruises in South Africa

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MSC Cruises employs South Africans to work on their global fleet, and there are a few ways to find these job opportunities:

1. Shosholoza Ocean Academy (SOA):

  • Exclusive Recruitment Partner: Shosholoza Ocean Academy (SOA) is the exclusive recruitment, manning, and training agency for South African citizens working on MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys (sister brand). This means all South African crew positions are filled through SOA.
  • Website: Visit the SOA website at https://www.shosholozaoceanacademy.co.za/ for a comprehensive list of current vacancies. The site allows you to filter positions by department (deck, engine, hotel), rank (able seaman, electrician, etc.), and even by ship if available.
  • Application Process: Once you find a suitable position, apply directly through the SOA website. Their application process typically involves submitting your resume, relevant certificates, and potentially completing an online application form.

2. MSC Cruises Careers Website:

  • Global Job Openings: While not the primary source for South Africans, the MSC Cruises careers website (https://www.careers.msccruises.com/) might occasionally list some South African positions or positions that could be filled by South Africans. It’s worth checking for any open roles that might align with your skills and experience.
  • Focus on Open Locations: If a specific role interests you but doesn’t mention South Africa, consider if the position allows for international crew members. However, remember that SOA remains the primary channel for South African vacancies.

3. Job Boards and Recruitment Agencies:

  • Limited Options: While some general job boards or recruitment agencies might list MSC cruise jobs, these are unlikely to be specific to South African vacancies. SOA remains the most reliable source.

Important Considerations:

  • Meeting Eligibility Requirements: Ensure you meet the qualifications and experience requirements listed for the desired position. Some roles may require specific certifications or maritime experience.
  • No Recruitment Fees: SOA emphasizes that MSC Cruises does not charge any recruitment, placement, or employment fees. Be wary of any agencies or services demanding payment for securing an MSC cruise job.
  • Focus on SOA: For the most up-to-date and reliable information on MSC cruise jobs for South Africans, prioritize Shosholoza Ocean Academy (SOA) as your primary resource.

By following these steps and focusing on SOA as the primary channel, you’ll be well on your way to finding a rewarding career at sea with MSC Cruises. Remember to check the SOA website regularly for new job postings and ensure you meet the eligibility requirements before applying.

Overview of Public Universities in South Africa

Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.

University of Pretoria

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
  • Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.

University of Cape Town

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
  • Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.

Stellenbosch University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.

University of the Witwatersrand

  • Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
  • Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.

University of Johannesburg

  • Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
  • Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.

University of the Free State

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.

University of Venda

  • Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
  • Application Period: Usually from May to September.

University of Fort Hare

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
  • Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.

University of the Western Cape

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Generally from May to September.

North-West University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.

Rhodes University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
  • Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.

Nelson Mandela University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
  • Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.

University of Limpopo

  • Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

University of Zululand

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
  • Application Period: Usually between April and November.

Central University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.

Vaal University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
  • Application Period: Typically from May to September.

Walter Sisulu University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.