The 2005 championship was the fourth contested.

This championship saw South Africa win the final over Australia 24–20.

The following 12 teams participated in the 2005 Under-21 Rugby World Championship.

Four group winners qualify for the semi-finals and bottom eight enter play-offs for positions 5–8 and 9–12.

25 June, South Africa 24–20 Australia Malvinas Argentinas, Mendoza