University of Pretoria Still Open for 2026 Applications

Are you planning to study at one of South Africa’s top universities in 2026? You will be pleased to know that the University of Pretoria (UP) is still open for 2026 applications. The University of Pretoria (UP) is one of the leading research universities in Africa with modern facilities, a strong academic reputation and a vibrant student life.

University of Pretoria Still Open for 2026 Applications

The University of Pretoria applications for the 2026 academic year are still open until 31 July 2025. Established in 1908, University of Pretoria (UP) offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees across its faculties. 

University of Pretoria is the largest contact university in South Africa and ranks among Africa’s top institutions. It offers over 1,200 academic programmes across nine faculties and the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS). These faculties include:

1. Economic and Management Sciences
2. Education
3. Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology
4. Health Sciences
5. Humanities
6. Law
7. Natural and Agricultural Sciences
8. Theology and Religion
9. Veterinary Science

Research and Innovation

UP is recognized for its research-intensive approach, producing socially impactful research aimed at addressing global challenges . 

The university's commitment to research excellence is reflected in its diverse range of postgraduate programmes and its emphasis on inquiry-led training.

Campus and Facilities

The main campus in Hatfield, Pretoria, features the historic Old Arts Building, constructed in 1911. This building houses significant collections, including the Mapungubwe Collection and the Van Tilburg Collection, which boasts the largest collection of Asian ceramics in the southern hemisphere. University of Pretoria campuses are;

• Hatfield Campus
• Groenkloof Campus
• Prinshof Campus
• Onderstepoort Campus
• Mamelodi Campus
• Hillcrest Campus (LC de Villiers Sports Grounds)

Important UP 2026 Application Dates

Here are the general closing dates for undergraduate applications at UP:

University of Pretoria 2026 Online Applications 

To get started with your University of Pretoria applications for the 2026 academic year, go to the official UP application website: https://www.up.ac.za/online-application. You will then need to register an account with your personal details, including your name, email address, and contact information. 

After that, begin your application by completing all sections of the form — personal details, academic background, programme choices, etc. Then attach required documents. After attaching documents, submit your application. 

Once you have submitted your application, you will receive a student number. You can use this to track your application status online.

Remember to pay application fee of R300. Good News! UP offers an application fee waiver for students whose household income is R150,000 or less per year. During the online application process (Step 12), you can upload proof of income documentation to be considered for the fee waiver. These documents will be verified by the university.

Accommodation at UP

UP offers a range of accommodation options to suit different student needs and preferences. The university has several on-campus residences located near its main campuses, including the Hatfield Campus, Groenkloof Campus, Prinshof Campus, and Onderstepoort Campus.

UP’s on-campus residences are well-maintained, secure, and designed to provide a comfortable living environment that supports academic success and personal growth. 

They offer amenities such as study rooms, computer labs, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and recreational spaces. Residences also encourage a strong sense of community, with residence leaders and student support systems in place.

There are two main types of accommodation:

Undergraduate Residences: These are mostly located around the Hatfield and Groenkloof campuses. They offer shared rooms or single rooms, depending on availability, and are ideal for first-year and returning undergraduate students.

Postgraduate Residences: These provide more privacy and quieter spaces suited to advanced academic work. They often include single rooms with en-suite bathrooms or bachelor-style flats.

Since UP’s residences are in high demand and space is limited, you are strongly encouraged to apply for accommodation as early as possible—ideally when you submit your academic application. Accommodation is not automatically guaranteed, and early application increases your chances of securing a spot in your preferred residence.

If you’re unable to secure on-campus accommodation, don’t worry—UP also provides guidance and support for students seeking private accommodation near its campuses.

 The surrounding areas, especially Hatfield, Brooklyn, and Arcadia, offer various student-friendly housing options such as communes, student apartments, and flats, many within walking distance of campus and public transport.

Final Thoughts

If you've been wondering, “Is the University of Pretoria still open for 2026 applications?” — now you know the answer is YES! But don’t wait until the last minute. Apply early, upload all required documents, and make sure you meet the entrance requirements.

The University of Pretoria is a fantastic place to start your academic journey, and 2026 could be your year to shine!

Quick Links

Apply Online at UP

Download 2026 Prospectus

UP Contact Centre: 012 420 3111