GetSmarter

Introduction

GetSmarter, part of the edX group, offers online short courses developed with leading universities. The courses are structured, time-bound and come with recognised certificates, which makes them a serious option for professional upskilling rather than casual learning.

Who it suits

GetSmarter fits a South African business owner, manager or employee who wants recognised, university-backed learning in a specific area, and values structure and a credible certificate over a self-paced video library.

What you get

  • Short courses built with top universities and business schools.
  • Structured schedules with real deadlines and support.
  • Recognised certificates on completion.
  • Courses across business, finance, technology and leadership.

How the cost works

Courses are paid per course rather than by subscription, with prices varying by university and programme. Because they are premium, university-backed courses, they sit well above casual online-course platforms. Check the current course fees before enrolling.

Our take

GetSmarter is the choice when you want credibility and structure, for example a manager formalising skills with a recognised certificate. For broader, lower-cost self-paced learning, compare it with subscription platforms. Pair upskilling with real business development to turn learning into growth.

Browse GetSmarter courses

Related: Business development  ·  Leadership development  ·  More business tools

Main Features

Quick Application – You can sign up for a GetSmarter course online within a few minutes.

Range of Courses – GetSmarter has a broad category of courses available online from over 18 learning institutions.

GetSmarter App – The GetSmarter app can help you keep up with coursework, and deadlines and features discussion forums.

Repayment Plans – GetSmarter offers you an option to choose a repayment plan for your course instead of paying the full amount at once.

Business-to-Business – GetSmarter offers businesses an opportunity to enrol employees into courses to help them upskill.

Pricing

Each GetSmarter course has its own cost. Courses can range from R 15 900 up to R 61 000 depending on the course topic. For example, tech courses like artificial intelligence are over R 40 000 while courses like data analysis start at R 15 900.

You can pay your course fees in full before the beginning of the course or choose to pay it through a payment plan. Not all courses have payment plans so it will depend on your course.

Payment plans are reserved for courses longer than 4 weeks. For courses that are 10 to 12 weeks long, GetSmarter offers a three-part payment plan. Courses longer than 12 weeks have a four-part payment plan.

The first instalment is due before the course start date. You can also speak to a GetSmarter Enrolment Advisor who will help explain the payment plans to you better.

When you pay for your course, you can pay online via GetSmarter’s secure payment gateway which supports Visa, Mastercard and American Express transactions.

You can make an electronic payment or deposit. Banking details will be provided to you if you choose one of these options. You can also use e-wallet, Google Pay and Apple Pay to pay for your course.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Wide range of courses.
Backed by local and international higher learning institutions.
Affordable payment plans.
Great for businesses looking to upskill employees.

Cons

Some courses are a little pricey.
Not all courses have a repayment plan.
FAQs

Yes, once you have completed your GetSmarter course, you will receive a digital badge or certificate of completion.

No, unfortunately GetSmarter does not offer scholarships or any funding.

No, unfortunately once the first payment is received you cannot change your repayment date.

Yes, your employees can access their courses on the GetSmarter app. The app is available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

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