When to Apply at UCT For 2026 Applications

The University of Cape Town (UCT) will officially open its undergraduate application form for 2026 on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, and closes on Sunday, August 31, 2025. Your chances of being accepted into the program of your choice are higher if you apply early. Take action now and submit your application before it’s too late!

UCT Regular Application Period For 2026

If you miss the early bird deadline, don’t panic! The regular application period, which typically runs from April 1, 2025, to July 31, 2025, is still open. Applications submitted during this period are still considered for admission as long as there is space available, even though their review process takes longer.

University of Cape Town 2026 Late Applications

Although rushing to apply at the last minute isn’t ideal, UCT typically accepts applications until September 30, 2025. However, bear in mind that late applications are only processed if the programs are still available.

Postgraduate Applicants? Buckle Up!

For postgraduate studies at UCT, application timelines vary depending on the specific program and faculty. Generally, applications open several months before the intended study commencement date.

Honours and Master’s programs: Applications typically open on April 1 for intake starting in January 2026.

Doctoral programs: Deadlines can vary considerably, but most applications are due between September and October 2026 for the following year’s intake.

Key Enrollment Dates for Undergraduate Applicants

UCT usually sets a deadline for the submission of applications. Missing this deadline can jeopardize your chances of admission. It’s advisable to start the application process well in advance to avoid any last-minute complications

April 2025: Applications are officially open! Mark your calendar and start gathering your supporting documents.
August 2025: This is the recommended closing date for most undergraduate programs. However, some faculties may have earlier deadlines, so check your desired program’s specific dates.
September 2025: Late applications will be accepted until this date, but be aware that some programs may have filled their intake by then.

Navigating the UCT Application Process:

Online Application Portal:

UCT utilizes an online application system. Familiarize yourself with the portal and create an account to initiate the application process. Ensure that you have a reliable internet connection and the necessary documents at hand.

Course Selection:

Research and select the courses you wish to apply for. UCT offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Make sure your chosen courses align with your academic and career goals.

Application Fee:

Be aware of the application fee, if applicable. UCT may charge a fee for processing your application, and it’s essential to make the payment within the stipulated time frame.

Check the application status.

After submission, regularly check the application status through the online portal. This ensures you stay informed about any additional requirements or updates.

Read Also: UCT online Application form 2026

Minimum academic requirements for undergraduate certificates, diplomas, and degrees

All applicants must have attained a certain level of proficiency in English and are required to submit evidence of this
To study an Undergraduate Certificate course at UCT, you need to identify the course to study under a recognised faculty and consult the management of that faculty.

Undergraduate Diploma Study Prospective applicants must have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) as certified by Umalusi with an achievement rating of 3 (moderate achievement, 40–49%) or better in 4 recognised NSC 20-credit subjects.

Prospective applicants with South African National Senior Certificate (NSC) To qualify for an undergraduate degree qualification, you must pass a minimum of four subjects at a rating of 4 (adequate achievement, 50–59%) or better in any four 20-credit NSC subjects. However, prospective South African Senior Certificate applicants need matriculation endorsement to study for a degree qualification at the University of Cape Town. Again, Applicants holding non-South African school-leaving certificates must qualify for a matriculation exemption certificate

The Points Score (APS) will also be used when selecting qualified students for the various courses. The percentages achieved in the National Senior Certificate examinations (preliminary and final examinations) will be allocated an admission score equal to that percentage.

READY TO UPLOAD THE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS?

Make sure the University of Cape Town administration can see all the information on your documents and that your electronic copies are clear, because failing to do so will cause your application to be delayed and increase the likelihood that you will miss the application deadline.

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Contact for information about UCT

Postal Address:

The University of Cape Town,
Private Bag X3,
Rondebosch 7701,
South Africa

Contact Number

Phone Number: +27 (0)21 650 9111

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