Which Universities Are Closed for Applications 2026

When you want to study at a university, you must apply before the closing date. A closing date is the last day the university will accept applications. If you miss it, you cannot apply again until the next year. 

Many learners want to know which universities are already closed for applications for 2026. So today, I will explain everything to you in a simple, easy way.

When university applications are closed it simply means that the university has already received enough applications and are no longer allowing new learners to apply.

When university applications are closed you will have to wait for the next application cycle. 

Universities That Are Already Closed for 2026 Applications

A list of universities that are closed for 2026 Applications:

University of Cape Town (UCT)
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
University of Pretoria (UP)
Stellenbosch University
Rhodes University
University of the Western Cape (UWC)
North-West University (NWU)
University of the Free State (UFS)
University of Limpopo (UL)
University of Mpumalanga (UMP)
Sol Plaatje University (SPU)
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
Central University of Technology (CUT)
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
University of Johannesburg (UJ)
Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
University of South Africa (UNISA)
Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
University of Venda (UNIVEN)
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
University of Fort Hare (UFH)

What To Do If Your Dream University Is Closed

If the university you love is already closed don't panic! You might still have a chance to apply as there are various options for you. The first option is to look out for the late applications of the university you desire to go to. Majority of Universities will open late applications in January 2026. 

Another option is to apply at universities that are still open for the 2026 academic year. Universities still open for 2026 are; Durban University of Technology, Mangosuthu University of Technology, University of Zululand and University of Kwazulu Natal.

You can also apply in various TVET Colleges in South Africa. TVET Colleges offer great courses too such a Engineering, Hospitality and Business Management. These colleges will remain open in January for 2026 late applications. 

How Not to Miss Application Dates Again

To avoid missing deadlines in the future, here are simple things you can do:

• Write down all university deadlines to keep track of which universities are still open 
• Apply as soon as applications open to avoid missing the deadline 
• Prepare your documents early by certifying them 
• Ask for help if you don’t understand the application process

Final Message

It can feel sad or scary when you find out your favourite university is already closed. But remember, this is not the end. Many other choices are still open for you. Education is not one straight road—there are many paths you can take to reach your dream career.

If the university you want is closed for 2026, look at the ones that may still be open. Keep checking every day and apply fast.