2026 University Applications in South Africa: Key Dates and Documents

2026 University Applications in South Africa: Key Dates and Documents, University Applications For 2026 In South Africa

Applications for the 2026 academic year at South African universities are now open, starting Tuesday, April 1, 2025, and are available for both local and international students. Whether you’re a prospective undergraduate or postgraduate student, you can now apply for diplomas, higher certificates, bachelor’s degrees, honours, master’s, and doctorate programs. Visit your preferred university’s official website to begin your application today.

To study at any South African university, you must have a good APS score and a Grade 12 certificate or National Senior Certificate (NSC). If you’re planning to apply for the 2026 academic intake, ensure you meet all entry requirements and have a valid email address and contact number.

This guide will walk you through the entire online application process. Get your device ready, and let’s begin this exciting journey together!

Required Documents for University Applications (2026)

Applications for the 2026 academic intake at most South African universities are now open for both undergraduate and postgraduate applicants, including South African and international students. You must submit scanned copies of all required documents (not the original copies) as soon as possible. Before you start your application, ensure you have the following documents ready:

National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification
Academic result
South African ID (for South African students)
Passport (for international students)
A fully completed application form (either online or in hard copy)
Application fee receipt or payment slip (if applicable)

Meeting Course Entry Requirements

You can pursue a variety of programs, including diplomas, higher diplomas, national diplomas, higher certificates, bachelor’s degrees, honours degrees, master’s degrees, and PhD programs, at any of the universities, depending on your current qualifications.

Applicants must fulfill all university requirements for their chosen programs, as admission is determined by academic performance and available space. Since universities have limited capacity, only candidates who meet the criteria will be considered.

SA University Prospectuses 2026

South African universities offer a diverse choice of degrees; therefore, it is critical for you to get the handbook, also known as the prospectus, from the university you want to apply to to learn about all of the available options. Prospectuses are available both online and in print, outlining admission requirements, fees, courses, and student services for the 2026 academic year. You can view it online or download it to your device to read at your leisure.

When to apply for university in 2026 in South Africa

Leading universities in South Africa will start accepting applications for the 2026 academic year on April 1, 2025. Submitting your application on time increases your chances of securing an early bird spot. To stay ahead, prepare by scanning and certifying the necessary documents in advance. Keep in mind that universities have varying application deadlines, with some closing as early as July 31.

Key Dates for University Applications (2026 Academic Year)

Application Opening Date: April 1, 2025
Application Deadline: October 31, 2025

How to Apply for Universities in South Africa for 2026

You need to prepare well so you can end well. Depending on the university, you can apply in person or online. Through the online system, you can access and fill out the application form. Be careful and make sure you fill out all the relevant fields on your application because no university will accept one that is incomplete.

To apply online, follow the steps below:

Download the Prospectus – Get a copy from the official website of the university.
Research Course Requirements – Make sure you understand the course requirements
Check Application Dates – Ensure you apply on time.
Prepare Certified Documents – Certify and scan all application documents.
Visit the Application Portal – Complete your application online through the university’s portal.
Complete the form – Fill in all mandatory fields on the form
Upload Required Documents – Submit only certified and scanned documents
Pay Application Fees – Effect the application fee payment if applicable.
Apply for Housing – Apply for on-campus accommodation (optional).
Apply for Financial Aid – Apply for bursaries or other financial support (optional).
Track Application Status – Visit the application dashboard to track your admission status

Financial Aid Opportunities

Universities in South Africa provide financial assistance for students facing economic challenges. For information about funding, visit the NSFAS website at www.nsfas.ac.za.

Application Fees

Application and processing fees vary by university, citizenship, and qualifications. However, some charge at least R100, while others don’t. Visit your preferred university’s official website to learn more about the application fee.

Checking Your Application Status

By entering your student number and PIN into the portal, you can check the status of your admission to any university. Applications are often reviewed by universities two to ten business days following the deadline.

South African Universities Now Accepting Applications for the January 2026 Intake

Participating Universities

The universities listed below are now accepting applications for the January 2026 intake, providing both local and international students with the opportunity to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate programs.

Traditional Universities

LIST OF SOME PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES IN SA

See the List Below for some Private Universities

LIST OF TVETS IN SOUTH AFRICA

The following are some of the TVETS available in South Africa:

Get more details HERE