Top South African Universities Now Accepting Applications

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It’s time to plan your future! Here’s a comprehensive guide to universities in South Africa currently accepting applications for the 2025 academic year.

Open for Applications

Here are universities you can apply to now:

  • University of Johannesburg (UJ): Apply by October 31st, (R200 for hard copy, free online). Explore their wide range of programs at a prestigious institution.
  • University of the Witwatersrand (Wits): Deadline: August (R100 fee). Pursue your academic dreams at this historic university.
  • University of Pretoria (UP): Apply by June 30th, (Free if household income below R150,000/year with proof). Gain valuable knowledge at this large, respected university.
  • Tshwane University of Technology (TUT): Apply by August (R240 fee). Choose from over 400 career options at South Africa’s largest university of technology.
  • Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU): Deadline: July 31st, (R300 fee). Specialize in healthcare sciences at this focused university.

And More!

The list continues with universities across South Africa:

  • University of Zululand (UniZulu) – Apply by September (R250 via CAO)
  • University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) – Apply by September (R250 via CAO)
  • Durban University of Technology (DUT) – Apply by September (R250 via CAO)
  • University of the Free State (UFS) – Apply by August (Free)
  • North-West University (NWU) – Apply by May 31st, (Free)

Western Cape Choices

Looking to study in the Western Cape? Consider these options:

  • Stellenbosch University (SUN) – Deadline: July 31st, (R100 fee)
  • University of Cape Town (UCT) – Deadline: July 31st, (R100 fee)

Eastern Cape Opportunities

Explore these universities in the Eastern Cape:

  • Nelson Mandela University (NMU) – Apply by August (Free)
  • Rhodes University (RU) – Apply by August (R100 fee)

Helpful Application Tips

Applying online can be smooth sailing with these tips:

  • Research Wisely: Choose universities that align with your goals. Consider programs, location, and costs.
  • Check Requirements: Each program might have specific requirements. Ensure you meet them before applying.
  • Gather Documents: Get transcripts, ID, recommendation letters, and a personal statement ready beforehand.
  • Practice Online: Familiarize yourself with each university’s application platform.
  • Double-Check Everything: Ensure all information you submit is accurate and free of typos.
  • Meet Deadlines: Don’t miss out! Submit your application well before the due date.
  • Follow Up: Stay informed about the application status and any additional steps needed.

Conclusion

Start your application journey now and secure your spot at your preferred university. Good luck!

Overview of Public Universities in South Africa

Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.

University of Pretoria

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
  • Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.

University of Cape Town

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
  • Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.

Stellenbosch University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.

University of the Witwatersrand

  • Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
  • Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.

University of Johannesburg

  • Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
  • Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.

University of the Free State

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.

University of Venda

  • Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
  • Application Period: Usually from May to September.

University of Fort Hare

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
  • Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.

University of the Western Cape

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Generally from May to September.

North-West University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.

Rhodes University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
  • Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.

Nelson Mandela University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
  • Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.

University of Limpopo

  • Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

University of Zululand

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
  • Application Period: Usually between April and November.

Central University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.

Vaal University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
  • Application Period: Typically from May to September.

Walter Sisulu University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.