Applications Open and How to Apply for 2026/SA
Applications Open and How to Apply for 2026/SA
We are thrilled to announce that applications for the 2026 academic year are now officially open at nearly all universities across South Africa! Both domestic and international students are encouraged to apply for a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs through the various application portals and forms. Don’t miss the chance to join one of South Africa’s leading universities!
As the 2026 academic year approaches, eager students from South Africa and abroad are looking to enroll in reputable universities but may find the application process unclear. If you’re in this situation, this article, “When and How to Apply to South African Universities for the 2026 Academic Year,” is just what you need. In this guide, we will provide detailed and straightforward information about the admission process, important deadlines, fees, and the steps to take.
University application dates for the 2026 academic year in South Africa generally open between April and June 2025, depending on the university and the course you’re applying for. We strongly recommend preparing in advance to ensure you secure a place at one of the top universities in the country.
As the 2026 academic year approaches, it’s crucial for prospective students to stay informed about application deadlines for universities across South Africa. Below is a comprehensive list of the 26 public universities, detailing their application periods and associated fees. Mark these dates on your calendar to ensure you don’t miss the chance to apply to your preferred institution.
University of Cape Town (UCT)
If you are looking to apply for a degree, diploma, or certificate at the University of Cape Town, make sure to submit your application by the following dates:
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
For those interested in pursuing a degree, diploma, or certificate at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, the application deadlines are as follows:
University of Fort Hare (UFH)
If you are planning to apply for a program at the University of Fort Hare, here are the key application dates you need to know:
Rhodes University
Applicants wishing to study at Rhodes University should ensure their applications are submitted by the following dates:
University of Stellenbosch (Stellenbosch University)
To apply for a degree, diploma, or certificate at Stellenbosch University, be sure to submit your application by the following deadlines:
University of the Free State (UFS)
If you are considering studying at the University of the Free State, you must apply within the following application window:
University of Limpopo (UL)
To apply for a program at the University of Limpopo, keep in mind the following important application dates:
University of Johannesburg (UJ)
If you wish to apply for a degree, diploma, or certificate at the University of Johannesburg, be sure to apply by these dates:
University of Zululand (Unizulu)
Applicants wishing to study at the University of Zululand must submit their applications by the following dates:
Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
For those interested in applying to Walter Sisulu University, the application deadlines are as follows:
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
If you wish to apply for a program at Tshwane University of Technology, here are the application deadlines:
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
For those applying to Cape Peninsula University of Technology, make sure to submit your application by the following dates:
Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
If you are interested in applying to Nelson Mandela University, be aware of these application deadlines:
University of Mpumalanga (UMP)
Applicants wishing to study at the University of Mpumalanga should submit their applications by the following dates:
Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
To apply for a program at the Vaal University of Technology, make sure you meet the following application deadlines:
University of Venda (Univen)
If you plan to apply to the University of Venda, be sure to submit your application by the following dates:
University of South Africa (UNISA)
Anyone wishing to apply for a program at the University of South Africa should ensure their application is submitted by the following dates:
North-West University (NWU)
To apply for a program at North-West University, make sure to submit your application by these dates:
University of Pretoria (UP)
Anyone planning to apply to the University of Pretoria should submit their application by the following dates:
University of the Western Cape (UWC)
To apply for a program at the University of the Western Cape, ensure your application is submitted by the following dates:
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
Applicants wishing to study at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University should submit their applications by these dates:
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:
Choose a Qualification:
Meet Admission Requirements:
Complete the Application Form:
Submit all Required supporting Documents:
Gather all required supporting documents, which may include:
Required Application Fee:
Submit a fully completed Application Form:
Track and Check Application Status:
Complete Acceptance Form:
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