The apostille route applies to South Africa
Because both South Africa and China are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention, a document issued in South Africa does not go to a Chinese embassy or consulate. It is certified once, in South Africa, and mainland China accepts that certificate directly.
The Convention has operated between South Africa and mainland China since 7 November 2023, the date it entered into force for China. South Africa was already a party before then.
In South Africa the apostille is issued by: the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, or a magistrate or a registrar of the High Court (designated in the Convention text under its former name, the Supreme Court of South Africa). Confirm the current competent authority on the HCCH listing linked below before travelling anywhere — designations change, and several countries split the work between more than one body.
What this does not cover
Certification only proves the signature and seal are genuine. It does not translate the document and it does not oblige any university to accept it. Language requirements are set separately by whoever receives the document, so confirm those first, and have any translation made after certification so the certificate is included in it.
Frequently asked questions
Do documents from South Africa need an apostille for China?
Yes. South Africa and mainland China are both parties to the Hague Apostille Convention, so a document issued in South Africa needs an apostille from the competent authority there, and does not need to be taken to a Chinese embassy or consulate.