Article Updated: 05 February 2026
The University of Pretoria (UP) has officially released its 2027 Prospectus, helping students stay prepared for the 2027 academic year. In this guide, we break down what the prospectus includes, who should download it, how to use it effectively, and where to access the official University of Pretoria 2027 Prospectus.
Table of Contents
1. About University of Pretoria
2. What is the University of Pretoria Prospectus
3. What’s Included in the University of Pretoria 2027 Prospectus
4. How to Download the Official UP 2027 Prospectus
5. Student life, Accommodation and Fees
6. Frequently Asked Questions
7. Case Studies and Testimonies
8. Final Words
1. About University of Pretoria
The University of Pretoria (UP), established in 1908, is one of South Africa’s leading research-intensive universities, known for its strong academic reputation and diverse range of programmes. Located primarily in the city of Pretoria, Gauteng, UP offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral qualifications across nine faculties.
The university combines high academic standards with modern facilities, extensive research opportunities, and a vibrant student life, making it a top choice for both South African and international students.
UP is renowned not only for its academic excellence but also for its innovation and global partnerships. The university has established multiple research centres and institutes, contributing to advancements in fields such as biotechnology, artificial intelligence, medicine, and renewable energy.
Students at UP benefit from a well-rounded campus experience, with access to sporting facilities, cultural activities, and student-led organizations. With its focus on producing graduates who are both knowledgeable and socially responsible, the University of Pretoria continues to be a respected institution in Africa and globally.
2. What is the University of Pretoria Prospectus
The University of Pretoria (UP) Prospectus is an official publication that provides comprehensive information about all the academic programmes, courses, and qualifications offered by the university.
It is designed to guide prospective students, parents, and working adults through the process of choosing the right programme, understanding admission requirements, and preparing for application.
The prospectus includes essential details such as faculty listings, course descriptions, minimum Admission Point Score (APS) requirements, compulsory subjects, and the campuses where each programme is offered. It also contains important guidance on application procedures, supporting documents, and general university policies.
The University of 2027 Prospectus serves as a planning and decision-making tool. It helps learners compare courses, understand study modes (full-time, part-time, contact, or blended learning), and evaluate whether they meet the university’s entry criteria.
By using the prospectus, students can plan ahead for the 2027 academic year, avoid common application mistakes, and make informed decisions about their higher education journey. Essentially, the UP Prospectus is the first step toward a successful university experience at one of South Africa’s leading institutions.
3. What is included in the University of Pretoria 2027 Prospectus
Welcome and University Overview
- Introduction to the university, its history, mission, and vision
- Key achievements and rankings
- Campus culture and student life
Faculties of University of Pretoria 2027
- Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology
- Faculty of Health Sciences
- Faculty of Humanities
- Faculty of Law
- Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
- Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Veterinary Science
Programmes of University of Pretoria 2027
- Higher Certificate programmes
- Diploma programmes
- Bachelor's degree programme
Programme Descriptions
- Overview of individual programmes
- Duration of study
- Key modules or subjects per programme
Admission Requirements
- Minimum Admission Point Score (APS) for each course
- Compulsory subjects and minimum marks required
- Whether Mathematical Literacy is accepted
- Special admission pathways (e.g., mature students or bridging courses)
Application Procedures
- Step-by-step guide for online applications
- Documents required (certified copies of ID, academic records, etc.)
- Application deadlines and important dates
- Rules and policies for applicants
Campuses and Locations
- Main campus and satellite campuses
- Faculties and programmes offered per campus
- Accommodation options and facilities
Language of Instruction
- English as the primary language
- Policies for non-native English speakers
Study Methods
- Full-time, part-time, and distance learning options
- Contact learning vs blended learning (online + in-person)
Fees and Financial Information
- Estimated tuition fees per programme
- Registration fees and residence fees
- Financial aid, bursaries, and scholarship options
Student Support and Services
- Academic support (tutoring, libraries, study centres)
- Counseling and career guidance
- Health services, sports, and student organizations
Articulation and Pathways
- TVET college articulation routes
- Recognition of prior learning
Tip: The UP 2027 Prospectus is not just a brochure — it’s a complete planning tool for prospective students, helping them understand what to study, where to study, and how to apply successfully.
4. How to Download the Official UP 2027 Prospectus
Getting the official prospectus is simple. Follow these steps to ensure you have the latest and most accurate version:
Visit the Official UP Website: https://www.up.ac.za/study
Navigate to the Prospectus Section: Look for links titled “Prospectus 2027” or “Download Prospectus.”
Select Your Program Level: Choose whether you want the undergraduate or postgraduate prospectus.
Download the PDF: Save it to your device for offline reference.
OR you can alternatively download the 2027 UP prospectus here:
University of Pretoria (UP) 2027 Prospectus PDF
The following individuals can download the UP 2027 Prospectus:
Grade 12 Learners: To understand available programs, requirements, and deadlines.
Parents/Guardians: To assist their children in making informed decisions.
Gap Year Students: To plan applications for the next academic year.
International Students: To review SAQA requirements, program options, and English proficiency criteria.
Career Advisors and Teachers: To guide learners on course selection and career pathways.
This is how the University of Pretoria Prospectus should be used for optimal results:
- Start by listing your top 2–3 programme choices. Check the faculty, module structure, and duration to ensure it aligns with your interests and career goals.
- Look at subject requirements and APS. If you’re missing a subject or score requirement, consider taking bridging courses or alternative programmes.
- Mark application opening and closing dates in your calendar. Missing deadlines can mean waiting a full year to reapply.
- Compare tuition fees with your budget and explore bursary or scholarship options. Note any requirements for financial aid applications.
- Decide whether you want on-campus or off-campus accommodation and note the residence application deadlines.
- Highlight sections and jot down questions for admissions offices. This ensures you won’t miss any critical information.
Tip: Treat the prospectus as a personal roadmap for your academic journey—it’s your reference throughout the application process.
5. Student life, Accommodation and Fees
University of Pretoria Student Life:
University life is more than academics. UP offers a vibrant student experience such as:
Clubs and Societies: From sports teams to cultural societies, students can explore interests beyond the classroom.
Sports: Facilities include rugby fields, swimming pools, tennis courts, and gyms.
Cultural Activities: Music, drama, and debate societies thrive on campus.
Community Engagement: Volunteer programs and outreach initiatives connect students with local communities.
University of Pretoria Accommodation:
UP offers a variety of residence options for students, including:
Traditional Halls of Residence: Shared rooms with meal plans.
Private Residences: Single or shared rooms, often with additional amenities.
Off-Campus Housing: Options for students who prefer independent living.
University of Pretoria Tuition Fees for 2027
Tuition fees at UP vary depending on the program and level of study. Here’s an approximate guide for undergraduate programmes:
BCom / BA / BSc: R60,000 – R70,000 per year
Engineering Degrees: R70,000 – R80,000 per year
MBChB (Medicine): R120,000 – R150,000 per year
LLB: R65,000 – R75,000 per year
Students who cannot afford to pay these fees must consider applying for funding. UP provides multiple funding options to assist students, including:
Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded for academic excellence.
Need-Based Financial Aid: Assessed based on family income and other criteria.
Bursaries: Offered by UP and external organizations for specific programs, like Engineering or Medicine.
Students are encouraged to apply for financial aid simultaneously with their academic applications.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When should I apply to UP for 2027?
A: Applications for the 2027 academic year open 01 April 2026 at University of Pretoria for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
Q: Can international students apply at UP for 2027?
A: Yes. International students must submit equivalent qualifications and English proficiency scores.
Q: How do I know if I qualify for a programme at the University of Pretoria?
A: Check the specific APS and subject requirements in the 2027 prospectus for your chosen faculty.
Q: Is the application fee refundable?
A: No, the R300 undergraduate application fee at UP is non-refundable.
Q: Is the UP 2027 prospectus free?
Yes. You can download the PDF from the official UP website at no cost.
Q: Can I rely on older prospectuses?
No. Always use the 2027 prospectus, as requirements, fees, and deadlines may change each year.
Q: Do I need the prospectus if I already know what I want to study?
Yes. It provides official details on requirements, deadlines, and program specifics that may not be available elsewhere.
Q: Are there prospectuses for international students?
Yes. The 2027 prospectus includes information relevant to international applicants, including SAQA verification and English proficiency requirements.
7. Case Studies and Testimonies
Case Study 1: Thabo Masango
- Thabo Masango is a 2026 Grade 12 student
- Thabo wanted to study BSc in Computer Science.
- He checked the APS requirement in the UP 2027 prospectus and confirmed he met the criteria.
- Thabo submitted his online application in April 2026, paid the R300 application fee, and uploaded his final Grade 11 results
- He applied for a residence in Hatfield and was accepted by June.
- By September, Thabo received his conditional acceptance letter, securing his spot for 2027.
______________________________
The lesson from Thabo Masango’s case study is that planning and applying early, while meeting all requirements, leads to success. Thabo carefully checked the APS and subject requirements in the UP 2027 Prospectus, confirmed he qualified, and submitted his application on time with all supporting documents.
Because he followed the proper steps, he was not only accepted into his chosen course but also secured residence and a conditional acceptance well in advance.
Key takeaways:
Check eligibility first – make sure you meet APS and subject requirements before applying.
Apply early – submitting applications and documents on time increases your chances of acceptance and securing residence.
Follow all steps carefully – paying application fees, uploading results, and completing forms correctly prevents delays or rejection.
Summary: Proper planning, early action, and adherence to prospectus guidelines greatly improve your chances of a successful university application, just like Thabo.
Case Study 2: Nomsa Zulu
Nomsa Zulu is a 2026 Grade 12 learner
Nomsa wanted to study BEng Mechanical Engineering at UP
She checked the APS requirement and other requirements in the UP 2027 prospectus.
She discovered that she does not qualify
She submitted her online application in April 2026 and uploaded her documents.
She received a reject letter from the University of Pretoria
_______________________
The lesson from Nomsa Zulu’s case study is about the importance of carefully checking admission requirements and eligibility before applying.
Even though Nomsa did the right thing by checking the APS and requirements in the UP 2027 Prospectus, she didn’t qualify for the course she applied for. Submitting an application without meeting the minimum requirements resulted in a rejection.
Key takeaways:
Always compare your marks and subjects against the minimum APS and subject requirements before applying.
Downloading the prospectus early allows you to explore alternative programmes if you don’t meet the criteria for your first choice.
Planning ahead prevents wasted time, application fees, and disappointment.
Summary lesson: The prospectus is a tool to plan smart, not just apply blindly — always ensure you qualify before submitting your application.
8. Final Words
The University of Pretoria Prospectus 2027 is an essential resource for prospective students. By carefully reviewing programmes, admission requirements, fees, and campus life, you can make an informed decision and maximize your chances of acceptance.
With UP’s academic excellence, research opportunities, and vibrant campus life, 2027 promises to be an exciting year for students ready to embark on their university journey.
The University of Pretoria 2027 prospectus is more than a guide—it’s a blueprint for your future. By downloading it, reviewing it thoroughly, and using it wisely, you can:
- Choose programs that align with your career goals
- Meet all admission requirements on time
- Plan finances and accommodation efficiently
- Avoid common mistakes that could derail your application
Remember, successful university applications start with informed decisions. Use the UP 2027 prospectus as your roadmap, and you’ll be well-prepared for the exciting journey ahead at one of South Africa’s leading universities.
