Good News for South African University Students

The Minister of Higher Education Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, has instructed all public universities to extend their registration period for the 2025 academic year to 28 February 2025. The announcement comes as a relief to thousands of prospective students who are struggling with funding issues.

The university registration extension aims to provide students with additional time to finalize their registrations, secure financial aid and for returning students to pay outstanding fees for the previous years. 

Impact on Students and Universities

Many students rely on NSFAS for tuition, accommodation, and other study-related expenses, and delays in funding approvals have resulted in some students missing registration deadlines.

The extension of the registration deadline will require universities to make adjustments to their academic calendars. Universities may have to extend assignments, tests and exams deadlines to accommodate students who register late. 

How Universities Are Responding

Many public universities in South Africa have started to extend their registration period.

The following public universities have extended their registration deadline for the 2025 academic year:

• Vaal University of Technology 
• Tshwane University of Technology 
• University of South Africa 
• University of Mpumalanga 
• University of Zululand 
• Nelson Mandela University

What This Means for Higher Education in South Africa

Dr. Nkabane’s decision to extend the registration period is being widely praised as a progressive move that prioritizes access to education. The minister's decision also aligns with the government’s broader strategy to increase tertiary education participation rates and support students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Ensuring that more students have the opportunity to enroll will contribute to a more educated and skilled workforce in the long run.

How can students register in universities 

Most universities allow online or in-person registration. You will need to:

1. Log in to the university’s registration portal using your student number and pin 
2. Select your modules/courses.
3. Confirm and submit your registration.
4.  Submit Required Documents (Some universities may require you to submit certified copies of documents before finalizing registration)
5. Get Your Student Card and Access to Online Systems
6. Attend Orientation and Start Classes (If orientation has passed, attend classes ASAP)

Advice for Students Yet to Register

For students who have not yet registered, the following steps are crucial to ensure a smooth registration process before the new deadline:

• Ensure that you have received official confirmation of acceptance from the university of your choice.
• If you have funding issues, contact NSFAS directly or visit your university financial aid office
• Consider applying for other bursaries 
• If your NSFAS application is rejected, consider doing an appeal 
• Before registering, ensure that you go through university’s website for step-by-step registration guides.
• If you encounter any challenges, reach out to the university’s registration office or student support services for help.

Conclusion

The extension of the university registration deadline to 28 February 2025 is a significant relief for thousands of students who need additional time to finalize their registrations for 2025.

Universities, on their part, must ensure they effectively manage this extended registration period to prevent disruptions to the academic calendar. Students are encouraged to take advantage of the extra time, act promptly, and communicate with university administrators if they encounter any difficulties.