UMP 2026 Applications Officially Open

Great news for all prospective university students! The University of Mpumalanga (UMP) has officially opened applications for the 2026 academic year. If you're a Grade 12 learner looking to secure your spot at a fast-growing and dynamic university or a previous matriculant planning to continue your studies, this is your time to shine!

UMP 2026 Applications Officially Open

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about applying to UMP for 2026—from important dates and entry requirements to how to apply online. Let’s get you ready for a successful university journey at one of South Africa’s newest but most promising institutions.

UMP 2026 Application Dates

UMP opened its online application system on 1 June 2025, and applications will remain open until 30 September 2025. It’s important to note that some programmes may close earlier if they reach full capacity before the deadline—especially in popular faculties like Education, Agriculture, or Hospitality.

So, if you’ve got your eye on a UMP course, it’s best to apply as early as possible. Early applications give you a better chance of securing a place in your desired programme and allow time to fix any issues before the deadline.

Why Choose the University of Mpumalanga?

Established in 2014, UMP is one of South Africa’s newest public universities—but don’t let its youth fool you. This institution has already built a solid reputation for academic excellence, modern facilities, and small class sizes that allow for personalised learning experiences.

Located in the heart of Mbombela (Nelspruit) in Mpumalanga, UMP offers a peaceful and scenic campus life while providing students with real-world skills to succeed in today’s job market.

Some of UMP’s standout qualities include:

• Student-centered learning approach
• Strong focus on practical training and employability
• State-of-the-art labs, lecture halls, and student residences
• Growing list of accredited programmes
• Safe and supportive campus environment

 Who Can Apply to UMP for 2026 applications

UMP welcomes applications from:

• Current Grade 12 learners
• People who have already passed matric
• TVET college students with NC(V) Level 4 or N6 certificates
• Students transferring from other universities

As long as you meet the minimum admission requirements for the course you're applying for, you’re welcome to apply.

UMP 2026 Admission Requirements

Admission requirements vary depending on the programme, but here’s a general idea of what you’ll need:

• A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Bachelor’s pass, Diploma pass, or Higher Certificate pass depending on the qualification.
• Minimum APS (Admission Point Score) of between 23–30+ depending on the programme.
• Specific subject requirements – for example, Mathematics is required for BSc degrees, while Life Sciences may be required for Agriculture or Environmental Sciences.

Pro Tip: Always consult the UMP Prospectus for 2026, available on the official website, to see exact requirements for your chosen programme.

How to Apply to UMP Online for 2026 Intake 

UMP uses an online-only application system, which is user-friendly and mobile-friendly. Here’s how to apply step-by-step:

1. Visit the University of Mpumalanga online application site
2. Click on the "click here to apply"
3. Answer few questions and accept the application rules and click "continue"
4. Capture your biographical information and click "next" to proceed with your application;
5. Capture results details then add subjects and click "next";
6. Capture educational institution detail and click "next";
7. Capture academic application details (choose 2 choices/programmes you wish to apply for), click on "add qualification" and thereafter click "next";
8. Verify/Check your application details then click "continue";
9. Create your 5 digit PIN (e.g 24689), click "I accept"(twice) checkbox thereafter click "Submit Application";
10. Upload your documents, select "yes" on the dropdown list if all your documents are ready to be uploaded and then click "next";
11. Click "Load/View Document" >> "Upload document" >> "Choose/Browse file" go to the folder where your documents are stored, choose the relevant document and click "save";
12. Once all documents have been uploaded click "complete upload";
13. Confirmation Page, end of application
14. Pay an application fee of R150 if a South African student

 Popular Courses at UMP in 2026

Here are some of the most popular choices:

• Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching
• Bachelor of Agriculture in Agricultural Extension and Rural Resource Management
• Diploma in Nature Conservation
• Bachelor of Commerce
• Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Resource Studies
• Diploma in Hospitality Management

These programmes are designed to ensure students graduate with relevant skills and are ready for the workplace.

What Happens After You Apply?

Here’s what the process looks like after you’ve submitted your application:

• Confirmation – You’ll receive an SMS/email to confirm your application has been received.
• Review Process – The admissions team reviews your results and documents.
• Conditional Offer – If you qualify, you may receive a conditional offer.
• Final Offer – After your final Grade 12 results are released in January 2026, you may receive a full offer.
• Registration – This usually takes place in January or February 2026.

Final Thoughts

Applying to university is one of the most important steps toward your future—and now that the University of Mpumalanga 2026 applications are officially open, it’s your turn to act.

UMP offers a supportive environment, modern infrastructure, and an academic culture that prioritises student success. If you’re looking for a university that feels like home and pushes you to succeed, UMP is definitely worth considering.

Don’t wait until the last minute—submit your application today and take the first step toward an exciting academic journey.

Need Help? Contact UMP

For any application queries, reach out to UMP directly:

Website: www.ump.ac.za

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 013 002 0001

Facebook: @UniversityOfMpumalanga

Twitter: @UMP_SA

If you found this post helpful, share it with your friends or classmates who are also planning to apply to university for 2026. Let’s help each other make informed and confident decisions about the future!