What documents do I need to apply at NMU?

Applying to Nelson Mandela University (NMU) is an exciting step in your academic journey, and being prepared with the right documents is crucial for a smooth application process. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or looking to further your studies, this guide will walk you through the essential documents you need to submit with your online application.

Essential Documents for Your NMU Application

  1. Final Exam Results
    You must provide a certified copy of your academic results. This can be one of the following:
    • Your final Grade 11 exam results.
    • Your most recent Grade 12 exam results (June or September only; March results are not accepted).
    • If you’ve already completed Grade 12, include a certified copy of your matriculation certificate or statement of results.
  2. Previous Academic Records
    If you’ve previously studied at another institution, include:
    • Certified copies of your diploma or degree certificates.
    • Academic records and certificates of conduct from your previous institution.
  3. Identification Documents
    To verify your identity, you need to submit:
    • A certified copy of your ID. If you are still waiting for your ID, a certified copy of your birth certificate will suffice.
    • A certified copy of the identity document of your parent, legal guardian, or surety.
  4. Declaration of Dependence
    If you are a dependent or currently studying, you’ll need a declaration from your parent, legal guardian, or surety. This is important if you are:
    • Currently at school.
    • Studying at a tertiary institution.
    • Recently left school and do not have permanent employment.

Additional Information

It’s essential to note that if your Applicant Score (AS) and subject-specific percentage pass marks do not meet the direct entry requirements for your chosen program, you will need to consider alternative qualifications, as NMU no longer conducts admission testing for applicants.

Moreover, some programs may have additional selection requirements. For specific details, be sure to consult the Undergraduate Guide relevant to your faculty to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria.

Conclusion

Preparing your application for Nelson Mandela University can feel overwhelming, but having the right documents ready will make the process much easier. Ensure that all your copies are certified to avoid any delays in your application. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to securing a place at one of South Africa’s leading universities.


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.