South African Universities Now Open For Applications 2026

If you are a high school or graduate student in South Africa or elsewhere, now is the time to start planning your undergraduate and postgraduate studies. University applications for the 2026 academic year are already open at several institutions around the nation. However, with so many alternatives available, it can be difficult to know where to begin.

In this post, we will provide you with all you need to know about applying to a South African institution for the 2026 academic year, including:

When to apply
Which universities are open for applications?
How to apply
What to include in your application
We’ll also give you some tips for choosing the right university for you.

When to Apply for University in South Africa for 2026

The general application window for the 2026 academic year will open on April 1, 2025, and close on March 15, 2026, in South Africa. Some universities, however, might have timelines or dates that are later or earlier. It’s crucial to inquire about deadlines directly from the universities you are interested in.

The application deadline is March 15, 2026, at noon, and it begins on April 1, the year before the anticipated study year. However, since the University of Witwatersrand (WITS) and Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) usually open earlier, you can visit their respective websites starting on March 1, 2025

Which universities are open for 2026 applications?

All of the major universities in South Africa are now open for applications for the 22026 academic year. This includes:

Prospective students can submit their applications to Stellenbosch University, University of the Free State, Walter Sisulu University and the like for the 2025 academic year from April 1 to October 31, 2025

In addition to these major universities, there are many other great universities in South Africa to choose from. To find a list of all universities in South Africa, you can visit the website of the Department of Higher Education and Training.

How to Apply

You can apply to universities in South Africa online or by mail. The application process varies depending on the university, but typically, you will need to submit the following documents:

Your high school transcript and certificate
Your South African National Identity Document (ID) number
A certified copy of your birth certificate
Proof of payment
A House Address
Certificate of Conduct
A certified and valid passport (for international applicants)

What to Include in Your Application

You have the opportunity to impress universities with your application. Thus, you must ensure that your application is correctly arranged, completed, and free of errors. Make sure your name on the application form matches the exact name on your ID document when submitting your application. Examine and double-check the information you have entered to ensure accuracy.

If necessary, you must pay the application fee on time and upload proof of payment. Applications must be submitted with this documentation to be deemed valid and will ultimately be accepted. Apply on time.

Tips for Choosing the Right University

Choosing the right university can be a big decision. Here are a few tips to help you make the best choice:

Consider your interests and what you want to study.
Research different universities and compare their programs.
Visit universities if possible to get a feel for the campus.
Talk to current students and alumni.

We hope this article has helped you learn more about applying to a university in South Africa. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.

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