2026 University Applications in South Africa: Key Dates, Requirements & How to Apply
Applying to university is an exciting step toward your future. To help you navigate the 2026 application process in South Africa, we've put together this friendly guide with all the essential information.
2026 University Applications in South Africa: Key Dates, Requirements & How to Apply
Starting your university journey is a big deal! Applying early gives you the best chance to get into the course and university you prefer. Different universities have different application dates, so it's important to know when to apply and what you need.
General Application Timeline for 2026
Most South African universities open their applications for the 2026 academic year between April and July 2025. Many close applications by 31 October 2025. However, some courses may have earlier deadlines, so always check the specific dates for each university.
Admission Requirements
To apply, you'll generally need:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC): This is your high school graduation certificate.
- Admission Point Score (APS): Universities use your Grade 12 results to calculate this score. Each course has a minimum APS requirement.
- Specific Subjects: Some courses require certain subjects. For example, Engineering courses often need Mathematics and Physical Science.
International students should check each university's specific requirements, as they might differ.
How to Apply to South African Universities
Here's a simple step-by-step guide:
- Choose Your Course and University: Decide what you want to study and where.
- Check Application Dates: Make sure you know when applications open and close for your chosen course.
- Gather Necessary Documents: (See Section below)
- Apply Online: Most universities have an online application system. You'll need to create an account and fill in your details.
- Pay Application Fee (if required): Some universities charge a fee; others don't.
- Submit Your Application: Double-check all information before submitting.
Some regions use centralized application platforms. For example, universities in KwaZulu-Natal use the Central Applications Office (CAO).
Supporting Documents Needed
Prepare the following:
- Certified Copy of Your ID or Passport: South African citizens need an ID; international students need a passport.
- Final Grade 11 and Latest Grade 12 Results: These help universities assess your academic performance.
- Proof of Payment: If there's an application fee, include the payment receipt.
- Additional Documents for International Students: Such as proof of English proficiency.
Application Fees & Free Application Universities
Application fees vary:
- Universities with Fees: Some institutions charge a fee when you apply.
- Free Applications: Others, like the University of the Free State (UFS) and the University of Johannesburg (UJ), don't charge an application fee for online applications.
Always verify the fee status on the university's official website.
Financial Aid & Bursaries
Education can be expensive, but there are ways to get help:
- National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS): Provides funding to eligible South African students. Check their website for application details.
- Bursaries and Scholarships: Many organizations offer financial support based on academic performance or financial need. Research and apply early.
Universities Open for 2026 Applications (Updated List)
Here's a list of some universities and their application dates:
University of Pretoria (UP):
- Website: www.up.ac.za
- Applications open: 2 April 2025
- Applications close: 31 May 2025 (Vet Science), 30 June 2025 (Other faculties)
- Application Fee: R300
University of the Witwatersrand (WITS):
- Website: www.wits.ac.za
- Applications open: 1 March 2025
- Applications close: 30 June 2025 (Specific programmes), 30 September 2025 (Other)
- Application Fee: R100 (SA citizens) / R700 (foreign citizens)
University of Cape Town (UCT):
- Website: www.uct.ac.za
- Applications open: 2 April 2025
- Applications close: 31 July 2025
- Application Fee: R100 (SADC) / R300 (non-SADC)
University of the Western Cape (UWC):
- Website: www.uwc.ac.za
- Applications open: 2 April 2025
- Applications close: 30 August 2025 (Dentistry), 30 September 2025 (Other)
- Application Fee: FREE
Stellenbosch University (SU):
- Website: www.sun.ac.za
- Applications open: 1 April 2025
- Applications close: 31 July 2025
- Application Fee: R100
University of Johannesburg (UJ):
- Website: www.uj.ac.za
- Applications open: 1 April 2025
- Applications close: 1 October 2025
- Application Fee: FREE (online) / R200 (manual)
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT):
- Website: www.cput.ac.za
- Applications open: 13 May 2025
- Applications close: 30 September 2025
- Application Fee: FREE (online) / R200 (manual)
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN):
- Website: www.ukzn.ac.za
- Applications open: 1 March 2025
- Applications close: 30 June 2025 (Medicine), 30 September 2025 (Other courses)
- Application Fee: R210 (On-time SA) / R420 (Late SA) / R490 (International)
Rhodes University (RU):
- Website: www.ru.ac.za
- Applications open: 1 May 2025
- Applications close: 30 September 2025
- Application Fee: R100
University of South Africa (UNISA):
- Website: www.unisa.ac.za
- Applications open: 1 September 2025
- Applications close: 1 January 2026
- Application Fee: R135
North-West University (NWU):
- Website: www.nwu.ac.za
- Applications open: 2 April 2025
- Applications close: 28 June 2025 / 30 August 2025
- Application Fee: FREE
University of the Free State (UFS):
- Website: www.ufs.ac.za
- Applications open: 1 April 2025
- Applications close: 30 September 2025
- Application Fee
Remember to visit each university's official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply Early: Don't wait until the last minute.
- Double-Check Your Application: Ensure all details and documents are correct.
- Keep Track of Deadlines: Mark important dates on your calendar.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check your email and the university's website for updates.
Conclusion
Embarking on your university journey is exciting! By staying organized and informed, you can make the application process smooth and stress-free. Start early, gather your documents, and don't hesitate to ask for help if needed. Good luck!
