NWU Online application

Applying to North-West University (NWU) online is a straightforward process, designed to help prospective students take their first step toward a rewarding academic journey. Whether you’re a South African student or an international applicant, NWU provides a user-friendly online application platform to streamline the process. This guide walks you through each step of the application process, ensuring you know what to expect.

NWU Online Application: The Steps

Step 1: Getting a Student Number

Before you can begin your application, you’ll need to obtain a student number. Here’s how:

  1. Visit the Online Application Platform: Head to NWU’s online application page.
  2. Click on New Application: Select “Create new student number” and fill in all the required fields.Note: Receiving a student number does not complete the application process. You must follow through with all the remaining steps to ensure your application is fully submitted.

Step 2: Log in with Your Student Number

Once you have your student number, you can log into the system:

  1. Enter your Student Number and PIN: Use the PIN you created when registering.
  2. Log into Your Profile: This will give you access to complete the rest of the application.

Step 3: Choose Your Program

In this section, you will select the program or qualification you wish to study:

  1. Browse the Available Programs: NWU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. You can use the yearbooks to get more information about the qualifications, curricula, and modes of delivery.
  2. Fill in the Required Fields: Ensure all information is correctly entered.

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

To process your application, NWU requires several supporting documents. Make sure you have them ready in the correct format (PDF or JPEG):

  1. Grade 12 Results: If you are still in Grade 12, upload your Grade 11 results. If you have already passed matric, upload your matric certificate.
  2. Copy of ID: A scanned copy of your ID document.
  3. Academic Record (if applicable): This is required if you have previous academic qualifications.
  4. International Students: In addition to the above, upload your passport and relevant academic results.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

After completing all the fields and uploading the required documents:

  1. Click on Submit Application: Ensure that you press the “Submit” button, as incomplete applications will not be processed.

Reminder: Once submitted, NWU will review your application and notify you of its status via email.

What Do You Need Before Applying?

  1. Email Address: You must have a valid, personal email address. This email will be used as your username and for all future correspondence.
  2. Documents: Prepare your ID, Grade 11 or 12 results, and any other necessary documents. These must be scanned individually and uploaded during the application process.

Key Contact Information for NWU

  • WhatsApp: +27 (0) 60 070 2606
  • SMS: 31750
  • Email: studies@nwu.ac.za
  • Phone: 018 299 4383 / 4130 / 4263 / 2445 or 018 285 2227 / 2332

Commonly Asked Questions

How many times can I apply to NWU per academic year?

You can only apply once per academic year, but you can select up to two study options.

What happens if I forget to submit my application?

If you fail to press the “Submit” button, your application will be considered incomplete and will not be processed.

Is there an application fee?

NWU does not charge an application fee for online submissions, making it more accessible for all applicants.

How can international students apply?

International students must follow the same process but are required to upload a copy of their passport and relevant academic results in addition to the usual documents.


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.