Applying to Nelson Mandela University (NMU) is an exciting step towards achieving your academic and career goals. NMU offers a wide range of programs for undergraduate and postgraduate studies. This guide will walk you through the online application process, ensuring you meet all requirements and have a smooth application experience.
Step 1: Decide on Your Study Program
Before applying, make sure you have selected a study program that aligns with your interests and goals. NMU offers various undergraduate and postgraduate programs, so review their Undergraduate and Postgraduate Guides to find the one that best suits you.
Step 2: Confirm Your Eligibility
Each program has specific admission requirements. Ensure you meet the minimum entry requirements for your chosen program, including:
- Meeting the minimum Applicant Score (AS) and subject-specific pass marks.
- Satisfying additional program-specific selection criteria, if applicable. If your AS does not meet the requirements, consider applying for a different program, as NMU no longer conducts additional testing for admissions.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
To complete your application, you need to submit the following certified documents:
- Final Grade 11 exam results or Grade 12 (June/Sept) exam results.
- Matriculation certificate or statement of results, if you’ve completed schooling.
- Diploma/degree certificates, academic records, and certificates of conduct (for applicants with prior tertiary education).
- South African ID or birth certificate (or passport if international).
- Identity document of your parent/legal guardian or surety.
- Declaration by parent/legal guardian/surety, if you are dependent or currently studying.
Make sure all documents are certified copies, not originals, and are ready in PDF format for easy uploading during the application process.
Step 4: Complete the Online Application
- Visit the NMU Online Application Portal.
- Register for an applicant profile if you are a new user, or log in if you are a returning applicant.
- Complete the online application form by following the guided steps.
- Upload the required documents in PDF format.
- Double-check all the information entered, as any errors may delay the processing of your application.Note: For those interested in teaching, the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is listed under the ‘Undergraduate’ tab.
Step 5: Apply for Accommodation and Funding
Once your application for admission is submitted, you can also apply for on-campus accommodation and funding support:
- Accommodation: NMU provides several options for student housing. Apply early to secure your preferred choice, as spots are limited.
- Funding: Check out the financial aid options available, such as scholarships, bursaries, and student loans, to support your studies.
Step 6: Track Your Application Status
After submitting your application, you can track its progress online. NMU will also keep you updated through SMS notifications, so make sure your contact details are accurate.
Step 7: Wait for the Admission Decision
If your application is successful, you will receive an admission offer and orientation information in November or December. Final acceptance is dependent on:
- Your final school-leaving results meeting program requirements.
- Submission of any additional academic records required (for students transferring from other institutions).
Step 8: Calculate Your Applicant Score (AS) (International Applicants Only)
For applicants with international, NC(V) Level 4, or foreign qualifications, use the Matriculation Board’s Conversion Table to calculate your equivalent AS. NMU requires all applicants to meet minimum AS thresholds for admission. Be sure to satisfy all additional subject-specific requirements as well.
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.