As prospective students in South Africa prepare to take the next step in their academic journey, knowing the application dates for universities is crucial. Many South African universities have already announced their application periods for the 2026 academic year. Staying on top of these dates can help students avoid the common pitfall of missing deadlines and potentially delay their studies for another year.
This article provides an overview of the application dates for major South African universities, along with key details about their respective programs.
Key South African universities Application Dates
Most South African universities have set their application periods for the 2026 academic year between March and April 2025, with deadlines ranging from June to October. Notably, specialized programs such as MBChB (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery), veterinary science, and certain health sciences programs tend to have earlier deadlines.
Below is a detailed summary of application periods for several key institutions:
| University | Application Period | Closing Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Nelson Mandela University (NMU) | 1 April 2025 | 30 June 2025 (MBChB, BPharm, BRad) 1 August 2025 (early applications) 30 September 2025 (late) |
| University of Pretoria (TUKS) | 1 April 2025 | 31 May 2025 (Veterinary Science) 30 June 2025 (All other faculties) |
| University of Cape Town (UCT) | 2 April 2025 | 31 July 2025 Application Fee: R100 (SADC), R300 (Non-SADC) |
| University of the Western Cape (UWC) | 2 April 2025 | 30 August 2025 (Dentistry) 30 September 2025 (Other programs) Application Fee: Free |
| Stellenbosch University (SU) | 1 April 2025 | 31 July 2025 Application Fee: R100 |
| University of Johannesburg (UJ) | 1 April 2025 | 30 September 2025 |
| Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) | Open now | 30 September 2025 |
| University of the Free State (UFS) | 1 April 2025 | 30 September 2025 |
| University of Fort Hare (UFH) | 1 June 2025 | 31 October 2025 |
| Central University of Technology (CUT) | 13 May 2025 | 30 September 2025 |
| Rhodes University | April 2025 | Unspecified |
| University of Zululand | Open now | 31 October 2025 |
| Walter Sisulu University | 1 April 2025 | 31 October 2025 |
| University of Limpopo | 1 April 2025 | 30 July/29 September 2025 |
| Durban University of Technology (DUT) | Open now | 30 September 2025 |
| Sefako Makgatho University | 1 April 2025 | 31 July 2025 |
| Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) | 1 April 2025 | 30 September 2025 |
| University of the Western Cape (UWC) | 2 April 2025 | 30 September 2025 |
| Stellenbosch University | 1 April 2025 | 31 July 2025 |
| University of Pretoria (UP) | 1 April 2025 | 30 June 2025 (All faculties except Veterinary Science) 31 May 2025 (Veterinary Science) |
| University of Witwatersrand (Wits) | Open now | 30 June/30 September 2025 |
| University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) | Open now | 30 September 2025 |
| North West University (NWU) | 1 April 2025 | Unspecified |
University-Specific Details
Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
Located in Port Elizabeth, NMU offers a diverse range of programs in engineering, health sciences, and more. The university has an extended application period for international students, ensuring that they have adequate time to complete their paperwork. Students interested in programs like MBChB, BPharm, and BRad should note the earlier deadlines.
- Official Website: NMU
University of Pretoria (TUKS)
TUKS has a broad spectrum of programs ranging from law to veterinary science, and they have different closing dates for each faculty. Veterinary science applications close in May, while other programs accept applications until the end of June.
- Official Website: UP
University of Cape Town (UCT)
UCT is one of the most prestigious universities in South Africa. The application period is shorter than most, so prospective students should ensure they submit their applications well ahead of the deadline.
- Official Website: UCT
University of the Western Cape (UWC)
UWC offers various programs, including health sciences, arts, and law. Dentistry applicants must apply by August, while others can apply until the end of September. The university’s application fee is waived, making it more accessible for students.
- Official Website: UWC
Stellenbosch University (SU)
Stellenbosch is renowned for its strong academic reputation and offers a broad selection of undergraduate programs. Applicants should be aware that the university charges an application fee, so it’s best to prepare financially for this expense.
- Official Website: SU
University of Johannesburg (UJ)
UJ is a major institution in South Africa, offering a wide variety of programs. The application deadline extends until September 30, giving applicants ample time to submit their documents.
- Official Website: UJ
Additional Universities and Programs
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
MUT has an open application period until September 30, 2025, with a focus on engineering, health sciences, and management programs.
- Official Website: MUT
University of the Free State (UFS)
UFS offers programs in the arts, sciences, and law, with an application period from April 1 to September 30, 2025.
- Official Website: UFS
University of Fort Hare (UFH)
UFH, located in Alice, is one of the oldest institutions in South Africa. Its application period runs from June to October.
- Official Website: UFH
Central University of Technology (CUT)
CUT offers courses in business, engineering, and health, with applications opening in mid-May and closing in September.
- Official Website: CUT
Check also: University of the Witwatersrand Bursary Programme 2025
University applications for the 2026 academic year are rapidly approaching, and it’s important for prospective students to stay on top of deadlines. Each university has its own set of requirements and deadlines, which can vary depending on the program and applicant’s residency status.
Always double-check the official university websites to confirm any changes or updates. Early preparation and timely submissions will help ensure a smooth transition into the next phase of your academic career.
For more information, visit the official websites of the South African universities listed above.