Universities that accept second semester applications
Many prospective students miss the opportunity to apply in universities for the first semester due to various reasons. Fortunately, several universities in South Africa accept second semester applications, providing a second chance for students to apply and enrol in their desired courses.
Universities That Accept Second Semester Applications in South Africa
In this guide, we will explore the South African universities that accept second semester applications, the offered courses, requirements and how to apply for the second semester intake.
What Are Second Semester Applications
Second semester applications allow students to enrol in the middle of the academic year, usually around July. Some universities offer this intake to fill available spaces in certain courses. However, not all courses are available for mid-year enrolment, so it is essential to check with the respective institutions before applying.
Benefits of Applying for the Second Semester Intake:
- Instead of waiting an entire year, students can begin their studies in July.
- Students who didn’t get into university at the beginning of the year can use the extra months to improve their application or secure funding.
- Some registered students can switch courses if they are unsatisfied with their initial choice.
- Since fewer students apply for the second semester intake, there is less competition for available space.
Here Are Universities That Accept Second Semester Applications
University of South Africa (UNISA)
UNISA, as a distance-learning institution, offers second semester applications for selected courses in undergraduate and postgraduate level. The University of South Africa (UNISA) is the largest open-distance learning institution in Africa, offering flexible learning options for students who prefer to study remotely.
Courses available for second semester at UNISA:
- Diploma in Accounting Sciences
- Bachelor of Accounting Sciences in Financial Management
- Bachelor of Accounting Sciences in Internal Auditing
- Bachelor of Accounting Sciences in Management Accounting
- Diploma in Nature Conservation
- Diploma in Ornamental Horticulture
- BA in Environmental Management
- Bachelor of Consumer Science
- BSc in Agricultural Science
- BSc in Environmental Management
- BSc in Life Sciences
- Diploma in Human Resource Management
- Diploma in Local Government Finance
- Diploma in Marketing Management
- Diploma in Operations Management
- Diploma in Public Administration and Management
- Diploma in Safety Management
- Diploma in Small Business Management
- Diploma in Tourism Management
- Bachelor of Administration
- View more courses here
UNISA Second Semester Application Dates:
Unisa second semester applications for the 2025 academic year will open on the 14th of April 2025 and close on the 09th of May 2025.
Learn more about UNISA Second Semester Applications
Mangosuthu University of Technology
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) is a leading institution of Technology in KwaZulu-Natal, specializing in science, technology, engineering, and business-related programmes. MUT provides second-semester applications for specific and limited courses in the engineering faculty.
Courses available for second semester at MUT:
- Diploma in Civil Engineering
- Diploma in Analytical Chemistry
- Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
- Diploma in Surveying
- Diploma in Chemical Engineering
- Diploma in Electrical Engineering
MUT Second Semester Application Dates:
The Mangosuthu University of Technology 2025 second semester applications are currently open and applications will remain open until 31 May 2025.
APPLY ONLINE HERE AT MUT FOR SECOND SEMESTER
University of Kwazulu Natal
UKZN does offer second semester applications for specific courses based on availability. Second semester applications at the University of Kwazulu Natal are open for both returning and new students who want to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies.
Courses available for second semester at UKZN:
- Bachelor of Business Administration
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Administration Honours (Public Administration)
- Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Human Resource Management
- Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Information Systems and Technology
- Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Marketing Management
- Postgraduate Diploma in Management
- Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing and Supply Chain Management
- Master of Commerce in Human Resource Management
- Master of Commerce in Industrial Relations
- Master of Commerce in Information Systems and Technology
- Master of Commerce in Management
- Doctor of Philosophy (Entrepreneurship)
- Doctor of Philosophy (Human Resource Management)
- View more courses here
UKZN Second Semester Application Dates:
The second semester applications at UKZN for the 2025 academic year will open 01 June 2025 and will close on the 30th of June 2025. Prospective students have enough time to prepare documents and decide which courses they will apply for when the application period arrives.
Learn more about UKZN Second Semester Applications
How to Apply for the second semester intake in South Africa
- Step 1: Check Admission Requirements
Each university has different requirements. Ensure that you check the requirements of your desired courses to increase your chances of acceptance. Not checking requirements puts you at risk of being rejected by the institution. Keep in mind of the following when checking requirements:
Minimum APS score for the course
Required subjects and levels (percentages)
Additional requirements (tests/interview/portfolio)
- Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
You will need the following documents to apply:
✔️ Certified copy of your ID/passport
✔️ Certified copy of your matric certificate or latest results
✔️ Application fee payment proof (if applicable)
✔️ Any additional documents required for your course
- Step 4: Apply Online
Visit the institution’s website and navigate to the "Apply Now" section.
Create an account and fill out the application form.
Upload the required documents.
Pay the application fee (if required).
Submit the application before the closing date.
Second Semester Applications Frequently Asked Questions
When can I apply for second semester at UP?
You can apply at UP for second semester before 31 March 2025. Please note that second semester applications at the University of Pretoria are only open for exchange students.
Which universities are open for second semester applications?
These universities open for second semester applications:
- University of Kwazulu Natal
- University of South Africa
- Mangosuthu University of Technology
Can I apply for second semester through CAO?
Yes, you can apply for second semester through the Central Applications Office (CAO). Second-semester applications are limited and depend on the availability of spaces. It is important to note that not all universities and colleges under CAO offer second semester applications. You can apply through CAO for second semester for universities that offer second semester applications such as the Mangosuthu University of Technology.
Can I apply at UFS for second semester?
The University of the Free State (UFS) does not open second-semester applications for undergraduate programmes. If you could not get space for the first semester intake you will have to apply for the next academic year before 30 September 2025.
Does NSFAS fund second semester at Unisa?
Yes, NSFAS does fund students for the second semester at the University of South Africa (Unisa), provided they meet the eligibility criteria. Students who are already funded do not need to reapply, but new applicants must apply within the NSFAS application period.
Can I apply for second semester at VUT?
No, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) does not accept second semester applications. If you could not get space for the first semester intake you will have to apply for the next academic year before 30 September 2025.
Can you apply for second semester at CUT?
The Central University of Technology (CUT) does not open for second semester applications. If you missed the application deadline for the first semester, then unfortunately you will have to apply for the 2026 academic year. CUT 2026 Applications should be submitted before 30 September 2025.
Does UCT do second semester?
The University of Cape Town (UCT) does not not accept second semester intake. If you missed the application deadline for the first semester, then unfortunately you will have to apply for the 2026 academic year. UCT 2026 will remain open until 31 July 2025.
Can you apply for a second semester at NMU?
Nelson Mandela University (NMU) does not have second-semester applications. If you could not get space for the first semester intake you will have to apply for the next academic year before 30 September 2025.
Does Rhodes have second semester?
Rhodes University does not offer second-semester applications for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Admissions are mainly for the first semester and mid-year intake is not taken into consideration.
Can I apply at UJ for second semester?
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) does not open second-semester applications. If you could not get space for the first semester intake you will have to apply for the next academic year before 31 October 2025.
Does TUT have second semester applications?
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) does not have second-semester applications. If you missed the application deadline for the first semester, then unfortunately you will have to apply for the 2026 academic year. TUT 2026 Applications should be submitted before 30 September 2025.
Do I need to apply for NSFAS again for second semester?
If you are already funded by NSFAS, you do not need to reapply for the second semester, as funding continues automatically. However, new applicants or students who were not funded in the first semester must apply during the NSFAS second-semester application period. It is essential to monitor NSFAS announcements for application dates and requirements.
Does DUT have second semester applications?
Durban University of Technology (DUT) opens second-semester applications for specific programmes, depending on space availability. Interested applicants should regularly check the DUT website for official announcements and deadlines, as there is a possibility applications may not open if all courses are full.
Conclusion
If you missed the first semester intake, you still have a chance to begin your studies in the second semester. Several universities in South Africa offer mid-year enrolment, making it easier for students to start their academic journey without waiting a full year.
Each university has different application deadlines, course availability and requirements so it’s crucial to check the respective university’s prospective for detailed requirements. The prospectuses can be downloaded HERE.
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