Universities in South Africa Open For 2027 Applications

Applications for the 2027 academic year are opening at universities across South Africa, giving prospective students the opportunity to secure admission for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Whether you are a South African citizen or an international applicant, it is important to stay informed about official opening dates, closing deadlines, and specific admission requirements for your chosen institution.

Many universities begin accepting 2027 applications as early as March and April 2026, with some programmes closing much earlier due to high demand and limited space. Submitting your application on time can significantly improve your chances of being accepted into your preferred course.

In this article, we provide a comprehensive list of universities in South Africa that are open for 2027 applications, including key dates, application procedures, and important guidelines to help you prepare and apply successfully.

Key Application Dates and Deadlines 2027

Applicants who plan to apply online for the 2027 academic year in South Africa must ensure they meet all admission criteria, including submitting their applications before the specified deadlines. Being aware of important dates is essential to avoid missing out.

At most universities, the application window typically runs from March 1 to October 31, 2026, although exact timelines may vary depending on the institution. It is important to confirm the specific deadlines for your chosen university and programme.

In general, closing dates fall between August 30 and November 30, 2026. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible, as some programmes fill up quickly due to high demand.

How to Apply to Universities in South Africa

There are several ways to apply to a South African university. The notable ones are as follows:

Central Application Office (CAO):

In South Africa, several public universities manage applications through a single centralized platform. Using the Central Application Office (CAO), students can apply to up to six universities by paying just one application fee.

The CAO handles and processes applications on behalf of institutions such as Durban University of Technology (DUT), University of Zululand, Mangosuthu University of Technology, and University of KwaZulu-Natal, simplifying the application process for prospective students.

University-specific online portals and manual submissions:

Many universities provide dedicated online portals for submitting applications. To get detailed information, visit the official websites of the universities you are interested in.

While some institutions only accept applications online, others may also allow manual or paper-based submissions. Prospective students planning to apply for the 2027 academic year should familiarize themselves with the specific application procedures for their chosen university to ensure a smooth and timely submission.

Required Documents for Applications

The following documents must be certified and scanned by prospective applicants who are prepared to apply and study in South Africa during the academic year 2027.

Certified copies of your high school and/or university results.
Proof of English proficiency: Required for non-native English speakers, such as IELTS or TOEFL.
South African Identification Documents: This could be an ID card, birth certificate or passport

University Entry Admission Requirements

Entry requirements for South African universities can vary depending on the specific university, program, and previous qualifications. However, here’s a general overview of what you can expect:

General Requirements:

National Senior Certificate (NSC): This is the standard high school qualification in South Africa. You’ll typically need to pass at least 4 subjects at a rating of 4 (50–59%) or better. Meeting their requirements does not guarantee admission but increases it

The minimum average point score (APS) required for a bachelor’s degree course in a South African University is 23

Beyond the application:

Securing admission is just the first step. Familiarize yourself with visa requirements, student accommodation options, and financial aid opportunities in South Africa. Additionally, explore the scholarships and bursaries offered by universities and government agencies.

Pay close attention to the application closing dates, and submit your application well before the deadline.

Admissions processes and requirements can change slightly year-on-year. Regularly check university websites and official South African higher education resources for the latest updates and announcements.

Universities Open for 2027 Applications

The universities listed below are now open and accepting applications for new students for the 2027 academic year: