Application Deadlines for All South African Universities for 2026 – Don’t Miss Out

Planning to apply to a South African university in 2026? Here’s your complete guide to deadlines

If you're aiming to study at a university in South Africa in 2026, knowing the application opening and closing dates is crucial. Missing these deadlines can cost you your chance at getting into your preferred course, residence, or even applying for financial aid.

This guide provides updated information on the 2026 university application dates for all major public institutions in South Africa.

Application Deadlines for All South African Universities for 2026

Why Applying Early Matters

• You’ll avoid last-minute technical issues or documentation delays
• High-demand courses (like Medicine, Law, and Engineering) fill up quickly
• Early applicants are considered for residences, bursaries, and funding
• Most universities allow you to update your Matric results after applying

Application Deadlines for 2026 – South African Universities

Here’s a table with the application windows based on  university announcements:

Note: Some faculties may have earlier closing dates, especially health sciences, education, and arts courses.

Universities Still Open for 2026 Applications!!!

• Vaal University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Walter Sisulu University (Closing Date: 31 October 2025)
• University of Mpumalanga (Closing Date: 30 November 2025)
• University of Cape Town (Closing Date: 31 July 2025)
• Stellenbosch University (Closing Date: 31 July 2025)
• North West University (Closing Date: 31 August 2025)
• Tshwane University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Free State (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Limpopo (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Venda (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Cape Peninsula University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Central University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Johannesburg (Closing Date: 31 October 2025)
• Nelson Mandela University (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Witwatersrand (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Western Cape (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Sefako Makgatho University (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of KwaZulu-Natal (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Durban University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Zululand (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Mangosuthu University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Sol Plaatje University (Closing Date: 30 November 2025)

Tips to Stay on Track

1. Start preparing early
Collect your Grade 11 report, ID, proof of address, and any other supporting documents. If your programme requires NBTs (National Benchmark Tests), register for them early.

2. Apply before June if possible
Applying early allows time for changes, such as updating your application with June or final Matric results. Some universities give preference to early applicants.

3. Watch for competitive courses
Fields like Medicine, Dentistry, Law, and Engineering may have stricter or earlier deadlines. Always double-check individual course requirements on the university website.

4. Confirm dates on official websites
While we’ve compiled the most accurate expected dates, always verify on each university's official admissions page for changes or course-specific closing dates.

Summary

University applications for the 2026 academic year in South Africa open between March and June 2025, with most closing dates falling between June and October 2025. Early application improves your chances of securing admission, accommodation, and financial support.

If you're still deciding which universities to apply to, be sure to explore what each institution offers in terms of courses, support services, and funding.

Start preparing now to secure your spot for 2026. Don’t wait until the last minute!