Applications Open and How to Apply for 2027/SA
We are excited to announce that applications for the 2027 academic year are now officially open at most universities across South Africa. Both local and international students are encouraged to apply for a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes through the respective university application portals.
Don’t miss the opportunity to secure a place at one of these institutions. Applying early can improve your chances of being considered for your preferred programme.
In this guide, you will find clear and detailed information about the admission process, important application deadlines, fees, and the step-by-step procedures required to complete your application successfully.
When to Apply for 2027 University Admissions
University applications for the 2027 academic year in South Africa generally open between April and June 2026, depending on the university and the programme you are applying for. Prospective students are encouraged to start preparing early to ensure they meet all requirements and submit their applications on time.
2027 Application Dates for South African Universities
Here is a complete list of the 26 public universities in South Africa, including their application opening and closing dates, as well as relevant fees. Make sure to note these dates carefully so you don’t miss the opportunity to apply to your preferred university and programme.
Applications Open: March 1, 2026
Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- Closing Date: September 30, 2026
- Application Fee: R250 (Non-refundable)
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
- Closing Date: September 30, 2026
- Application Fee: R250
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- Closing Date: September 30, 2026
- Application Fee: R100 (South African applicants)
Applications Open: April 1, 2026
University of Fort Hare (UFH)
- Closing Date: September 30, 2026
- Application Fee: R100
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Closing Date: September 30, 2026
- Application Fee: R240 (Non-refundable)
Rhodes University
- Closing Date: November 30, 2026
- Application Fee: R100
Stellenbosch University
- Closing Date: January 26, 2026
- Application Fee: R100
University of the Free State (UFS)
- Closing Date: September 30, 2026
- Application Fee: None
University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- Closing Date: October 31, 2026
- Application Fee: R200
University of Zululand (UNIZULU)
- Closing Date: October 31, 2026
Application Fee:
- R220 (South African students)
- R275 (International students)
Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
- Closing Date: October 31, 2026
- Application Fee: None
Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- Closing Date: September 30, 2026
- Application Fee: R500 (Non-refundable)
University of Venda (UNIVEN)
- Closing Date: October 31, 2026
- Application Fee: R100
North-West University (NWU)
- Closing Date: September 30, 2026
- Application Fee: None
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- Closing Date: September 30, 2026
- Application Fee: R210
University of Pretoria (UP)
- Closing Date: June 30, 2026
- Application Fee: R300 (Non-refundable)
University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- Closing Date: September 30, 2026
- Application Fee: None
University of Cape Town (UCT)
- Closing Date: July 31, 2026
- Application Fee: R100 (Non-refundable)
Applications Open: April 2, 2026
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
- Closing Date: September 30, 2026
- Application Fee: R300 (Non-refundable)
Applications Open: May 6, 2026
Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
- Closing Date: September 30, 2026
- Application Fee: R100 (Non-refundable)
Applications Open: May 13, 2026
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Closing Date: September 30, 2026
- Application Fee: R100 (Manual applications)
Central University of Technology (CUT)
- Closing Date: September 30, 2026
- Application Fee: Free of charge
Applications Open: June 1, 2026
University of Mpumalanga (UMP)
- Closing Date: January 30, 2026
Application Fees:
- RSA / SADC Applicants: R150
- Other African Countries: R350
- International Students: R500
University of Limpopo (UL)
Closing Date: September 29, 2026
Application Fee:
- R200 (South African students)
- R750 (International students)
Applications Open: September 11, 2026
University of South Africa (UNISA)
- Closing Date: November 30, 2026
- Application Fee: None
How to Apply
Applying to South African universities involves several steps, and the process may vary slightly depending on the institution and the level of study (undergraduate, postgraduate, etc.). Here is a general guide on how to apply to South African universities:
Research Universities and Programs:
- Identify the universities and programs that match your academic and career goals.
- Get the current prospectus and read the admission requirements
Choose a Qualification:
- Choose your level of studies (certificates, diplomas, degrees, and postgraduate studies)
Meet Admission Requirements:
- Ensure that you meet the minimum admission requirements for the chosen program.
- Requirements may include academic qualifications, language proficiency (English or Afrikaans), and specific subject prerequisites.
Complete the Application Form:
- Obtain the application form from the university’s official website or the relevant admissions office.
- Fill out the application form accurately and completely.
Submit all required supporting documents:
Gather all required supporting documents, which may include:
- A fully Completed Application Form
- Matriculation Certificate or equivalent
- A certified copy of your South African identity document.
- Proof of Application Fee Payment
- An email address and a contact phone number
- English Language Proficiency
- A certified copy of your passport.
- Study Visa
Required Application Fee:
- Pay the application fee if the university requires it. All application fees are not returnable under any circumstances.
Submit a fully completed Application Form:
- You are required to submit your application online or offline, depending on the university
- All application documents must reach your university by the closing date
Track and Check Application Status:
- Monitor the status of your application through the university’s online portal or by contacting the admissions office.
Complete Acceptance Form:
- Once you have met the requirements, you will receive a link to an acceptance form. Visit the link to fill out the acceptance form.
- After paying the registration fee, complete the form by the deadline to register for your classes.
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