Applying to Universities in South Africa for 2025–2026
Applying to Universities in South Africa for 2025–2026
You’re probably getting ready to apply to universities in South Africa for the 2025–2026 intake after your Matric or WASSCE. With endless questions on your mind, including which universities are the best fit, when are the application deadlines, and how to apply. This thorough guide will address your urgent concerns and assist you in applying to the South African university of your choice.
What you need to apply to a university
You must obtain and complete the application form for that particular university to apply. Together with a certified copy of your ID and academic transcripts, you must provide either or both of your Grade 11 final results and your Grade 12 June results. Application fees typically range from R100 to R550 and are non-refundable.
Every university has different requirements for applications, so be sure to visit their websites to find out more.
Universities Open days:
These give prospective students the chance to discover more about the university’s campus, offerings, and programs. The date of the OPEN day is typically announced on the official website. We urge everyone who is thinking about taking the course to come and take part in the open day so they can make an informed decision.
Remember, the application process doesn’t end with submitting your documents. Attend university open days and virtual events to get a feel for the campus environment and ask questions
Universities In South Africa Opening Dates
Applications to South African universities are typically accepted in April, May, June, or August. However, depending on the university and program you’re interested in, the exact dates may vary.
Universities Closing Dates
You must submit your application forms on time because the majority of South African tertiary institutions close their doors to new applicants between September 30 and November 15 of each year.
Early applications are generally encouraged, as popular programs tend to fill up quickly. Mark your calendar diligently and submit your applications well before the deadlines to avoid disappointment. Remember, late applications may be considered at some universities, but be prepared for potential processing delays.
Universities Application Outcome
Once the application process is complete, the university will either confirm your admission to your choice programme; inform you that you have been placed on a waiting list; or inform you that your application has been unsuccessful. However, most Universities typically take several weeks or even months to make final admission decisions
Universities in South Africa and their respective application opening dates
The list of universities and the dates that they accept applications for admission are provided below. Unfortunately, applications for ALL the Universities for the 2024 academic year have already CLOSED.
However, you can start preparing for the 2025 application window now!
March 1-4
April 1-3
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- University of Fort Hare (UFH)
- Rhodes University
- Stellenbosch University
- University of the Free State (UFS)
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- University of Zululand (Unizulu)
- Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- University of Venda (Univen)
- North-West University (NWU)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
- Central University of Technology (CUT)
- Sol Plaatje University
- Durban University of Technology
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
MAY 1-15
- University of Limpopo (UL)
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
- University of the Western Cape (UWC)
June 1-15
September 1-11
Read Also:
- Universities in South Africa Open for 2025-2026 Applications
- South African Universities Now Open for Applications 2025-2026
- Applications Open and How to Apply for 2025-2026/SA