Universities Opening in March for 2027 Applications – Full Guide for Students

For thousands of South African learners March marks the start of an exciting yet sometimes stressful period: applying to universities for the 2027 academic year. 

Knowing which universities open their applications in March, and understanding the key steps and strategies to apply successfully, can make a huge difference in ensuring your application stands out. 

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know, including timelines, requirements, tips, and real-life case studies.

Table of Contents

1. Why March is important for university applicants

2. Universities Opening in March for 2027 Applications 

3. Key Steps to Apply Successfully in March

4. How Universities Communicate Acceptance

5. How Early Applications Affect Acceptance

6. Interactive Quiz: Are You Ready for University Applications?

7. Quick Checklist for March 2027 Applications

8. Key Takeaways 

1. Why March Is Important for University Applicants 

March holds a special place in the South African academic calendar because it signals the official start of the university application season. 

For Grade 12 learners and mature students alike, it’s not just another month—it’s the perfect time to start applying in universities for the 2027 academic year. 

Advantages of applying in March for the 2027 intake:

• Early Access to Popular Courses

One of the biggest advantages of applying in March is that you get first access to high-demand programmes. Courses like Medicine, Law, Nursing, Engineering, and IT often have limited space, meaning universities can only accept a fixed number of students. Once these spots are filled, later applicants may be forced to either wait for the next intake or select alternative courses.

By submitting applications as soon as the portal opens in March, students have a better chance of securing a place in the campus and programmes of their choice. Early applications can also increase the likelihood of receiving residence placements, which is crucial for learners moving far from home.

• Smoother Application Processing

Universities usually process applications on a rolling basis, especially for programs that are oversubscribed. This means that applications are reviewed in the order they are received. Applying in March gives students a head start, allowing time for verification of documents, corrections, or additional submissions if needed.

For example, a student who applies in March might receive an acceptance letter by April or May, leaving ample time to arrange finances, accommodation, or even consider backup options. Those who wait until later months may find themselves in a race against time, with some programs already closed or fully booked.

• Time to Address Issues Early

Starting in March also provides a buffer period to handle unexpected challenges. Sometimes documents are rejected for being incorrectly certified, certain subjects or points requirements may not match initial expectations, or universities may request additional information. By applying early, students have several weeks to resolve these issues without the stress of looming deadlines.

This early start is particularly important for mature students or learners who are repeating a year, as they often need to provide additional proof of qualifications or prior experience. Early submissions reduce the risk of delays that could jeopardize acceptance.

• Competitive Advantage

Think of March as a strategic window. Universities tend to attract thousands of applicants, but those who apply in the first few weeks often have a competitive advantage. Admissions officers sometimes start shortlisting candidates immediately, meaning early applicants can get their documents verified, meet requirements faster, and even receive interview invitations before the peak application period.

• Peace of Mind

Finally, applying in March gives students peace of mind. Once the application is submitted, they can focus on completing their final Grade 12 exams, preparing for university life, or exploring bursaries and scholarships. 

Early applications reduce last-minute panic, which is common in the June-July rush when deadlines are approaching and courses are filling up fast.

Mini Poll:

Poll 1: When Do You Plan to Submit Your University Application?

🔘 As soon as applications open in March

🔘 April–May, after researching courses

🔘 June or later, close to deadlines

🔘 I’m not sure yet

Poll 2: What Is Your Biggest Challenge With Applying to University?

🔘 Choosing the right course

🔘 Gathering required documents

🔘 Meeting eligibility requirements

🔘 Fear of rejection or not being accepted

Poll 3: Which Type of University Are You Most Interested In?

🔘 Traditional campus university (on-site classes)

🔘 Distance learning / online university

🔘 Technical or vocational college (TVET)

 🔘Still exploring options

Poll 4: How Confident Are You About Meeting the Requirements for Your Course?

🔘 Very confident – I’ve already checked my points and subjects

🔘 Somewhat confident – I still need to verify a few things

🔘 Not confident – I need guidance

🔘 I have no idea – this is all new to me

Poll 5: Are You Planning to Apply Early in March to Secure Your Spot?

🔘 Yes – I know early applications are better

🔘 Not sure – I’m waiting to see what courses are available

🔘 No – I prefer to wait closer to the deadline

🔘 I’ve already applied

2. Universities Opening in March for 2027 Applications 

March is the month that marks the official start of university applications in South Africa. Applying early not only increases your chances of acceptance but also helps you secure your preferred campus, course, and residence. 

Below, we take a closer look at six universities opening their applications in March 2027 and share tips, case studies, and insights for each.

1. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)

Application Link: https://applications-prod.tut.ac.za/ — this is TUT’s official online application portal where you start and submit your 2027 application.

Application Fee: R240 for South African applicants

Opening Date: 01 March 2026

Closing Date: 30 September 2026

How to Apply:

• Visit TUT’s online portal and create an account.
• Complete the application form with correct personal and academic details.
• Upload required documents (ID, certified Grade 11/12 results, etc.).
• Pay the application fee online.
• Submit your application and track your status

Courses You Could Apply For:

• Engineering & the Built Environment (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical)
• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
• Arts & Design (Graphic Design, Fashion, Multimedia)
• Economics & Finance (Accounting, Business Management)
• Science & Humanities (Psychology, Sociology)

Why TUT? TUT offers over 300 programmes across multiple campuses and focuses on practical, career‑ready qualifications. Applying early means you can pick the campus and options you prefer before they fill up.

2. University of KwaZulu‑Natal (UKZN)

How to Apply: UKZN uses the Central Applications Office (CAO) — a shared portal for KZN universities. Visit https://www.cao.ac.za/ to start your application.

Application Fee: Around R250 for South African applicants (covers multiple choices in the system).

Opening Date: 01 March 2026

Closing Date: 30 November 2026

How to Apply Through CAO:

• Go to the CAO website and register.
• Enter your personal details and programme choices (up to 6).
• Upload supporting documents and pay the CAO fee.
• Submit your cao online application for 2027

UKZN Faculties:

• Health Sciences 
• Law & Management Studies
• Agriculture, Engineering & Science
• Humanities 

Tip: Because UKZN courses like Medicine are in high demand, getting your CAO form in as soon as March opens increases your chances of acceptance and early review.

3. University of Zululand (UNIZULU)

Application Platform: Also through the Central Applications Office (CAO) — apply at https://www.cao.ac.za/. (unizulu.ac.za)

Application Fee: R250 for South African applicants.

Opening Date: 01 March 2026

Closing Date: 30 November 2026

How to Apply:

• Register on CAO
• Select UNIZULU and your preferred programmes
• Upload your documents and pay the CAO fee
• Submit and check your email for a CAO acknowledgment.

Popular Courses:

• Bachelor of Education (BEd)
• Commerce & Accounting
• Law
• Science & Social Sciences

Pro Tip: Get your CAO submitted early to improve your chances of residence allocation and to have time to adjust your choices before deadlines.

4. Durban University of Technology (DUT) 

Application Portal: DUT undergraduate applications are handled via the Central Applications Office (CAO) at https://www.cao.ac.za/. 

Application Fee: The CAO charges about R250 for South African applicants.

Opening Date: 01 March 2026

Closing Date: 30 November 2026

How to Apply:

• Go to the CAO portal and register.
• Enter DUT as one of your program choices.
• Upload required documents and pay the application administration fee.
• Submit before the deadline.

DUT Faculties:

• Engineering & Built Environment
• Health Sciences
• Arts & Design
• Management Sciences & Accounting

Why Early Application Matters: Some programmes have earlier internal deadlines or join points, so submitting in March helps your profile be seen sooner.

5. University of the Witwatersrand (WITS) 

Application Link: Start at WITS’ undergraduate application page (visit www.wits.ac.za/applications/).:contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}

Application Fee: About R100 for South African applicants

Opening Date: 15 March 2026

Closing Date: 30 September 2026

How to Apply:

• Go to the WITS application portal.
• Create an account and fill in your details.
• Choose up to three programmes you want to study.
• Upload supporting documents and pay the fee.
• Submit before the closing dates for your courses.

Notable Courses at WITS:

• Medicine & Health Sciences
• Law & Commerce
• Accounting Science
• Engineering & Computer Science

Pro Tip: WITS is highly competitive. Early applications allow additional time to submit required materials (like portfolios or test results) for selective programmes.

6. Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) 

Application Method: MUT also uses the Central Applications Office (CAO) to accept undergraduate applications at https://www.cao.ac.za/. 

Application Fee: R250 for South African applicants (covers your CAO application).

Opening Date: 01 March 2026

Closing Date: 30 November 2026

How to Apply:

• Register on CAO and enter MUT as one of your programme choices.
• Upload your documents and pay the CAO fee.
• Submit before the deadline.

Programme Areas at MUT:

• Engineering & Technology
• Natural Sciences
• Management Sciences

Quick Tip: Because MUT offers hands‑on, industry‑focused programmes, applying early helps you get into workshops and internships before spots fill.

3. Key Steps to Apply Successfully in March

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

Before you even start your application, make sure you have:

• Your Grade 11 final results
• Your Matric ID or Birth Certificate
• Proof of residence (if required)
• Certified copies of any previous qualifications

Step 2: Research Your Courses

March is the ideal time to shortlist courses. Don’t just pick a course because a friend is taking it. Ask yourself:

• Does this course align with my career goals?
• Am I eligible for this course based on my results?
• Are there prerequisites I need to meet?

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Most universities have online applications. Take your time to:

• Fill in personal details accurately
• Upload documents correctly
• Pay attention to course codes

Step 4: Submit Early

Even if the deadline is in June or July, submitting in March gives you an advantage for high-demand courses.

4. How Universities Communicate Acceptance

Once you submit your application in March:

• Most universities will send confirmation emails.
• Acceptance letters are typically sent within 4–6 weeks.
• Some universities use a rolling acceptance system, meaning early applicants may hear back faster.

5. How Early Applications Affect Acceptance: A Case Study

Case Study – Early vs Late Application:
Lindiwe and Sipho both wanted to study Nursing at UL. Lindiwe applied in March, while Sipho waited until June. Lindiwe received an acceptance letter within a month, securing her spot in the preferred campus. Sipho’s application was still under review, and some campuses were already full, forcing him to select an alternative location.

Lesson: Early application increases your chance of securing the campus and program you want.

Student Testimonies 

Case Study 1: Tshepiso applied to the National Diploma in Electrical Engineering in March 2026. His early submission allowed him to secure residence close to campus and choose modules without restrictions.

Case Study 2: Nomsa applied for BEd in March 2026 and received confirmation within a month, securing a campus residence. Her friend who applied in May had to arrange private accommodation. unizulu

Case Study 3: Lebohang applied for Bachelor of Accounting Science in March 2026. Her early application ensured she was shortlisted for a bursary, securing financial support for her studies.

Case Study 4: Thulani applied for National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering in March 2026 and received an acceptance letter before April, giving him time to plan accommodation and finances.

6. Interactive Quiz: Are You Ready for University Applications?

Have you researched the course prerequisites?

Yes / No

Do you have all your documents ready?

Yes / No

Have you checked the university application deadlines?

Yes / No

Are you prepared to submit your application in March?

Yes / No

Scoring:

• 4 Yes – You are fully prepared to start applying!
• 2–3 Yes – Almost there, focus on gathering documents and researching deadlines.
• 0–1 Yes – Start preparing now, March is here!

7. Quick Checklist for March 2027 Applications

✔️  Confirm which universities open in March

✔️  Gather all required documents

✔️  Research courses and eligibility

✔️  Complete application forms online

✔️  Submit as early as possible

✔️  Keep a copy of all confirmations

✔️  Prepare for follow-up communication

8. Key Takeaways 

March is a crucial month for university applications, especially for learners who want to secure spots in competitive programs. By starting early, gathering your documents, understanding deadlines, and submitting carefully completed applications, you set yourself up for success. 

Remember, the difference between applying in March versus later can be significant, as case studies have shown.

Whether you’re a Grade 12 learner, a mature student, or someone looking to transfer, March is your chance to take the first step toward an exciting academic journey in 2027.

Are you ready to apply? Start today by listing your top three universities and courses, check your eligibility, and prepare your documents. Early preparation can be the difference between your dream course and settling for an alternative.