Apply to University of Pretoria by 30 June 2025

The University of Pretoria (UP) has confirmed that the application cycle for the 2026 academic year will officially close on 30 June 2025. This closing date applies to all undergraduate programmes and signals the university's continued focus on efficiency and academic readiness.

If you’re planning to study at UP in 2026, time is running out. With only a short window left, it’s essential to understand how the process works, which courses are already full or near capacity, and why submitting your application early isn’t just recommended—it’s necessary.

Why It’s Important to Apply Early

Applying early to UP comes with a host of benefits that can make your university journey smoother, less stressful, and more successful. Here’s why early birds truly get the worm at UP:

1. Courses Fill Up Fast

Many of UP’s high-demand courses reach capacity long before the official closing date. If your application is submitted after a programme has filled up—even if it's before 30 June—it may still be rejected. Some courses close as early as April or May due to oversubscription. Submitting early gives you a better shot at securing a place.

2. Early Offers of Admission

Students who apply early and meet the academic requirements can receive provisional offers while still in Grade 12. This means less stress during final exams because you already know what awaits you in 2026.

3. Time for Corrections and Uploads

Mistakes happen—missing documents, incorrect details, or unclear uploads. When you apply early, you have time to fix issues before the deadline, increasing your chance of being accepted.

4. Peace of Mind

Getting your application in early lets you shift focus to your matric finals or final year studies. No last-minute rushing, no panicking when the site is overloaded.

Which Courses Are Already Closed or Close Early?

UP does not wait until 30 June to close all programmes. Some competitive courses close much earlier or become full well before the deadline. Here are a few courses currently closed for 2026 at the University of Pretoria:

• Bachelor of Veterinary Science 
• Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing

NOTE: Always check the UP online application portal to confirm real-time availability.

Application Fee and Payment Information

Please note that you need to pay University of Pretoria application fee which is non-refundable. You can pay the application fee using different ways such as a credit card. The University of Pretoria application fee is R300 for both local and international students. 

If you have not yet paid your application fee note that you have until 30 June to make the payment if you want your application to be processed. 

If You Haven’t Submitted Yet—Here’s What You Need to Know

If you're still thinking, "I have until 30 June, I’ll apply next week,"—you might already be too late for certain programmes. Here’s why:

• Courses Can Fill Before the Official Closing Date

The 30 June deadline is simply the final cut-off—but UP often closes individual programmes before that date once the allocated seats are filled. If your course of interest has already reached capacity, even submitting on 29 June won’t help.

• Technical Glitches on Deadline Day

As the deadline nears, thousands of applicants rush to complete their submissions. This can cause slow loading times, login errors, and system crashes. If you wait until the final week, you risk missing the deadline due to avoidable tech issues.

What Documents Are Required?

Before applying, prepare the following documents to upload:

• Certified copy of your ID or passport
• Your Grade 11 final report (if in Grade 12)
• If already matriculated: your NSC certificate or statement of results
• Proof of payment 
• Any portfolio or additional documents required by specific faculties (e.g. Architecture, Fine Arts)

Make sure documents are clear, properly scanned, and legible. Blurry uploads may delay or disqualify your application.

What If You Miss the Deadline?

Unfortunately, late applications are not accepted at UP. Here are your options if you miss the 30 June deadline:

1. Apply to another university with a later closing date
2. Consider TVET colleges or private colleges
3. Prepare to apply in the next cycle (2027)
4. Use the extra year to upgrade marks, volunteer, or gain work experience

Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss Out on UP 2026

The University of Pretoria remains one of South Africa’s most respected and competitive institutions. With its excellent academic reputation, modern campus facilities, and strong graduate outcomes, it’s no surprise that programmes fill up so fast.

If you’re serious about being part of UP’s 2026 cohort, the message is simple:

• Apply early
• Ensure all documents are uploaded
• Double-check your programme's availability
• Pay Application fee
• Don’t wait for the deadline—beat it!

The clock is ticking, and for some programmes, the doors may already be closing. Don’t miss your chance.