The University of Pretoria (UP) has announced that there is still limited space available for new first-year students in selected programmes for the 2026 academic year, offering a valuable opportunity for late applicants who are eager to begin their studies at one of South Africa’s leading universities.
According to a recent announcement by the university, the available spaces are within the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, and prospective students are urged to apply as soon as possible due to high demand and limited capacity. While many programmes across the institution have already closed, these specific courses remain open for late applications — but only for a short time.
Limited Opportunities Still Available
UP has confirmed that applications for these selected programmes will close on 30 January 2026. The university has emphasised that these opportunities are strictly limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to applicants meeting the minimum admission requirements.
This announcement is particularly significant for learners who may have missed earlier application deadlines, experienced delays in receiving their final results, or are reconsidering their study plans for 2026.
Courses Open for 2026 Late Applications at University of Pretoria
The following undergraduate programmes currently still have space available for 2026:
- Food Management (Culinary Sciences)
- Ecology
- Meteorology
- Entomology
- BScAgric in Plant Pathology
- Geography and Environmental Sciences
- BScAgric in Applied Plant and Soil Sciences
These programmes fall within fields that are increasingly important to South Africa’s economic development, environmental sustainability, food security, and climate research.
Graduates from these disciplines are often well positioned for careers in research, agriculture, environmental management, education, and both public and private sector roles.
Urgent Call to Prospective Students
The University of Pretoria has urged interested candidates to act quickly, warning that spaces may be filled at any time before the official closing date. Applications are open only for the listed programmes, and no extensions are expected once capacity is reached.
“Make today matter,” the university encouraged prospective students, highlighting the importance of taking swift action to avoid missing out on the opportunity to study at UP in 2026.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the University of Pretoria’s official application platform. Prospective students are advised to ensure that all required documents are uploaded correctly and that they meet the specific admission criteria for their chosen programme before applying.
Because this is a late application window, applicants should regularly monitor their application status and respond promptly to any communication from the university.
A Second Chance for 2026 Admission
The University of Pretoria remains one of South Africa’s top-performing institutions, known for its strong academic reputation, research output, and graduate employability. Securing a place in one of the remaining programmes could be the first step towards a rewarding academic and professional journey.
Prospective students who are interested in any of the listed programmes are strongly encouraged to apply before 30 January 2026, as no late submissions will be considered once applications close or programmes reach capacity.
