The University of Mpumalanga (UMP) is a public university located in the Mpumalanga Province of South Africa. It was established in 2013 and welcomed its first group of students in February 2014. Since then, UMP has experienced rapid growth in both student numbers and academic offerings, making it a key institution for higher education in the region.
Table of Contents:
1. About University of Mpumalanga
2. University of Mpumalanga 2027 application dates
3. University of Mpumalanga Study Programmes
4. Application Process of the University of Mpumalanga
5. NSFAS and Financial Aid at UMP
6. FAQs About UMP 2027 Online Applications
7. Final Words
About University of Mpumalanga
UMP started with only 169 students and three programmes in 2014. By 2025, the university had grown to offer 78 qualifications and enrolled 11 885 students. This reflects its rapid development and expanding role in South Africa’s higher education sector.
University of Mpumalanga aims to be more than just a place to study — it’s designed to be a transformative institution that empowers students with education, research skills, and leadership abilities.
The university’s motto, “Creating Opportunities,” reflects its commitment to expanding access to quality higher education and contributing to sustainable socio-economic development in Mpumalanga and beyond.
UMP Campuses:
- Mbombela Campus (This is the main campus and the administrative heart of UMP)
- Siyabuswa Campus (Primarily focused on education and teacher training programmes.)
Campus Life and Student Experience:
UMP offers much more than classes — it boasts a growing campus culture that includes:
- Sport and recreational clubs
- Student societies and organisations
- Cultural events and talent showcases
- Support services like academic advising and wellness programs
New student orientation events help first-year students get accustomed to university life, build friendships, and learn how to navigate academic expectations.
Why Students Choose UMP:
Here are key reasons many learners apply to UMP:
✔ Modern, expanding university with quality academic programmes
✔ Strong emphasis on practical learning and employability
✔ Commitment to community development and social impact
✔ Growing reputation and increasing research output
✔ Opportunities for students from rural and under-represented backgrounds
2. University of Mpumalanga 2027 application dates
UMP organises its application periods by level of study, with different deadlines depending on whether you’re applying for an undergraduate programme, a postgraduate diploma or honours course, or advanced research degrees like Master’s and Doctoral programmes.
When Do University of Mpumalanga 2027 Online Applications Open? The UMP 2027 applications open 01 June 2026.
For the 2027 academic year, these are the key dates you need to know:
| Level of Study | Application Open | Application Close |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 1 June 2026 | 30 November 2026 |
| Honours / Advanced / Postgrad Diplomas | 1 June 2026 | 30 November 2026 |
| Master’s & Doctoral | 1 June 2026 | 30 January 2027 |
What You Should Do to make the most of the UMP 2027 application cycle:
From 1 June 2026: Start preparing and submitting your application online as soon as the portal opens. If you’re applying with Grade 11 results, upload your final Grade 11 certificate and update it later with your Grade 12 results.
Before 30 November 2026: Complete and submit applications for undergraduate, honours, advanced, and postgraduate diploma programmes. This deadline is firm — late applications will not be accepted for these levels.
Before 30 January 2027: Submit applications for Master’s or Doctoral programmes. Aim to submit at least a few weeks before this deadline so you have time to respond to any follow-up requests from UMP.
3. University of Mpumalanga Study Programmes
UMP’s academic structure is organised into three main faculties, each with specialised schools and programmes. The University of Mpumalanga faculties are;
- Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of of Economics, development and Business
Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences
Focuses on areas like agriculture, environmental management, and science. Programmes here blend theory with practical skills to tackle real-world challenges such as food security and sustainability.
Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences Study Programmes:
- Higher Certificate in ICT (user support)
- Diploma in ICT (applications development)
- Diploma in Nature Conservation
- Diploma in Agriculture (Plant Production)
- Diploma in Animal Production
- Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology
- Bachelor of Science
- BSc in Environmental Science
- Bachelor of Agriculture (Agricultural Extension & Rural Resource Management)
- BSc in Agriculture
- BSc in Forestry
Faculty of Education
Prepares future teachers, especially for the foundation and intermediate school phases. This faculty aims to strengthen education in South Africa by training educators with both knowledge and practical classroom experience.
Faculty of Education Study Programmes:
- Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching
Faculty of Economics, Development and Business Sciences
Offers programmes in economics, business management, development studies, commerce, and related fields — key areas for today’s evolving job market.
Faculty of Economics, Development and business Study Programmes:
- Higher Certificate in Event Management
- Diploma in Hospitality Management
- Diploma in Culinary Arts
- Bachelor of Administration
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Development Studies
- Bachelor of Laws
- Bachelor of Arts (general)
- Bachelor of Social Work
University of Mpumalanga Postgraduate Studies
A list of UMP postgraduate studies available for the 2027 academic year:
- Bachelor of Development Studies Honours
- Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Economics
- Bachelor of Administration Honours.
- Bachelor of Arts Honours in Sociology, Psychology, Siswati, Gender Studies, or Archeology.
- Master of Administration
- Master of Arts: Available in Psychology, Siswati, English, and Sociology.
- Master of Computing: Research-based program (full-time/part-time).
- Master of Tourism and Hospitality Management.
- Postgraduate Diploma in Agriculture
- Bachelor of Agriculture Honours in Agricultural Extension and Rural Resource Management
.
4. University of Mpumalanga 2027 Application Process
Applying to the University of Mpumalanga (UMP) for 2027 is fully online — which makes it convenient, but only if you prepare properly and follow each step carefully.
Below is a comprehensive breakdown of how the application process works:
Step 1 — Check Eligibility Before You Start
Before you begin your application, you should:
Know Your Qualification Options: UMP offers different types of qualifications such as:
- Bachelor’s degrees (e.g., BEd, BSc, BCom)
- Diplomas
- Honours Degrees
- Postgraduate Diplomas
- Master’s and Doctoral degrees
Each programme has specific admission requirements based on subject combinations, required achievement levels & percentage (e.g., Maths vs. Maths Literacy) and Admission Point Score (APS)
Tip: Always download the latest official UMP prospectus for 2027 to confirm the exact requirements for your chosen courses.
Step 2 — Prepare Required Documents
You will need to upload certified copies of:
- ID document (South African ID or birth certificate)
- Academic transcripts (Grade 11/12 results or final matric results)
- Proof of residence
- Referee letters or research proposal (for postgraduate degrees — Master’s/Doctoral)
Make sure all documents are:
✔ Clear, legible, and correctly certified
✔ In PDF, JPEG, or PNG format (check UMP’s size limits)
✔ Ready before you start the application
Step 3 — Visit the Official UMP Online Application Portal
- Go to the University of Mpumalanga official website
- Click on “Apply” / “Online Applications”
- Choose the 2027 application cycle
Step 4 — Create Your Application Account
You’ll need to register using:
- A valid email address
- A secure password
Important:
- Use an email you check regularly
- Keep your login details safe — you’ll use them throughout the process
- Once registered, you’ll receive a reference number — save this for tracking your application later.
Step 5 — Complete the Online Application Form
The online form will request:
✔ Personal details (name, address, contact number)
✔ Academic history (school name, exam details)
✔ Course choices (up to 3 options depending on the programme)
✔ Upload of supporting documents
Step 6 — Upload Supporting Documents
Attach clear, certified uploads of: ID / birth certificate, Academic records, Proof of residence and Additional documents (if required)
Step 7 — Submit Your Application
Before clicking SUBMIT, double-check that:
✔ All sections of the form are filled
✔ Documents are correctly uploaded
✔ Contact information is accurate
✔ Your course choices are in the right order
Once you submit, you’ll receive a confirmation message and reference number.
Step 8 — Pay Any Required Fees
Pay a non refundable application of;
- R200 if you are a South African student
- R400 if a SADC student
- R550 if an international student
Please use your ID number or student number as a reference when making payment
Step 9 — Track Your Application
After submission:
- Log into your application portal
- Use your email / reference number
- View your application status
Statuses include:
✔ Application received
✔ Under review
✔ Awaiting final results
✔ Provisional acceptance
✔ Successful / Unsuccessful
If you applied with Grade 11 results, your status may indicate waiting for final Grade 12 results.
Step 10 — Respond to Offers
If UMP accepts your application:
✔ You may receive a provisional offer
✔ This means you must meet all final requirements (e.g., final matric results)
✔ If accepted, follow the next steps given.
Tips to Avoid Mistakes:
- Apply as early as possible (June – August), especially for competitive programmes
- Upload scanned and clear documents or take clear photos
- Apply for courses you qualify for always, you can do this by checking requirements.
- Check your email (and spam folder) often for application updates
UMP Application Process Checklist
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Check admission requirements |
| 2 | Prepare certified documents |
| 3 | Access UMP online application portal |
| 4 | Create account + register |
| 5 | Complete the form |
| 6 | Upload documents |
| 7 | Submit the application |
| 8 | Track your application status |
| 9 | Respond to offers |
| 10 | Register once accepted |
5. NSFAS and Financial Aid at UMP
Students who need financial support can apply for NSFAS funding separately. NSFAS applications usually open between 01 September to 30 November annually.
Being accepted academically does not automatically mean you are funded, so ensure you meet NSFAS eligibility criteria.
It is important to also apply for other bursaries available in South Africa.
6. Frequently Asked Questions About University of Mpumalanga 2027 Online Applications
Can I apply with Grade 11 results?
Yes. UMP accepts applications from Grade 11 learners using final Grade 11 results.
Can I change my course after applying?
Changes may be allowed before applications close, but this depends on availability.
What happens if my marks improve?
Improved results can strengthen your application, especially for competitive programmes.
Does meeting requirements guarantee acceptance?
No. Admission depends on space availability and competition.
7. Final Words
The University of Mpumalanga 2027 online applications process is your gateway to higher education at a growing and dynamic institution. Applying early, choosing realistic course options, and submitting accurate information can make a meaningful difference in your application outcome.
If UMP is one of your top choices for 2027, don’t wait until deadlines approach. Prepare your documents, understand the requirements, and submit your application as soon as the system opens. Early action often separates successful applicants from those who miss out.
For students serious about building a strong academic future, the University of Mpumalanga remains a solid and increasingly popular option.
Individuals Who Should Apply for UMP 2027?
- Grade 12 learners who will complete matric in 2026
- Grade 11 learners applying with final Grade 11 results
- Students who previously studied at another institution and wish to transfer
- Individuals who took a gap year and now want to return to studies
- Applicants who were not accepted in previous years but now meet the requirements
UMP’s online system allows you to apply even if you are still waiting for your final matric results, provided you have the required supporting documents.