The University of Mpumalanga (UMP) has become an important institution in South Africa’s higher education landscape, offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. As the 2026 academic year approaches, prospective students will soon be able to submit their applications for the upcoming academic year.
This guide provides all the essential details about application dates, procedures, and requirements for those wishing to study at UMP in 2026.
University of Mpumalanga Application Dates
For students wishing to join University of Mpumalanga in 2026, the university has set clear and structured application deadlines, which vary depending on the program level:
- BEd Foundation Phase: The closing date for applications to the Bachelor of Education (Foundation Phase) program is September 30, 2025.
- Other Undergraduate, Honours, Advanced Diplomas, Bachelor’s & Postgraduate Diplomas: Applications for these programs will close on November 30, 2025.
- Master’s and Doctoral Programs: For those interested in postgraduate studies, applications will close on January 30, 2026.
It is essential for applicants to adhere to these deadlines to ensure they are considered for their chosen programs.
How to Apply
Applying to University of Mpumalanga is an entirely online process, making it convenient for applicants to submit their applications from anywhere. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process:
- Visit the UMP Website: Go to the official UMP website at www.ump.ac.za, and locate the “Online Applications” section.
- Accept the Terms: Read and accept the application rules and guidelines before proceeding.
- Enter Personal Details: Complete the form by entering your personal and biographical details.
- Academic Information: Input your academic results, including subjects completed and qualifications obtained.
- Educational History: Provide information about previous schools or educational institutions attended.
- Program Selection: Select up to two programs you wish to apply for, based on your interests and career goals.
- Review Your Application: Carefully review all the information entered in the application form before submission.
- Create a PIN: Create a unique 5-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) to secure your application and confirm your submission.
- Document Upload: Upload the required documents such as your Identity Document, academic records, and proof of payment for the application fee. For international applicants, additional documents like a valid passport, medical insurance, and police clearance may be required.
- Confirmation: After submission, you will receive a confirmation page acknowledging the successful receipt of your application.
It’s important to ensure that all required documents are uploaded in the correct format (PDF, DOC, DOCX, TIFF, PNG, JPG, or JPEG). This can significantly reduce processing delays.
Application Fees
The university charges different application fees depending on the applicant’s nationality:
- South African Applicants: R200
- SADC (Southern African Development Community) Applicants: R400
- International Applicants (outside SADC): R550
These fees must be paid when submitting the application. Proof of payment must be uploaded as part of the application process.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare several key documents for upload. These include:
- Identity Document (or Passport for International Applicants)
- Senior Certificate or National Senior Certificate (NSC)
- Proof of Application Fee Payment
- Other Academic Records as required for the specific program applied for
International applicants will also need to submit additional documents such as a valid passport, medical insurance, and police clearance if applicable.
Admission Requirements
UMP has set the following minimum requirements for entry:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 30% in the language of learning and teaching and a rating of 4 (50-59%) or higher in four recognized 20-credit NSC subjects.
However, specific programs may have additional or higher entry requirements. It is essential to check the UMP 2026 prospectus for detailed information about the admission criteria for your program of interest.
Programs Available for 2026
UMP offers a diverse range of programs across various faculties, including both undergraduate and postgraduate options. These include:
- Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences:
- Diploma in Agriculture
- BSc in Agriculture
- Diploma in Nature Conservation
- Faculty of Education:
- BEd Foundation Phase Teaching
- BEd Honours
- Faculty of Economics, Development and Business Sciences:
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Development Studies
- Bachelor of Laws
Additionally, UMP offers Higher Certificates, Diplomas, Advanced Diplomas, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees across different fields of study. Whether you are interested in the sciences, business, or education, UMP offers a program suited to various academic interests.
Accommodation Applications
For first-year students applying to UMP, on-campus accommodation is available, but it is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Applicants who wish to stay on campus should indicate their preference during the online application process. Be sure to apply early to improve your chances of securing accommodation.
Financial Aid
UMP understands that financing higher education can be a challenge for many students. To assist with this, the university offers various financial aid options, including:
- National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
- Funza Lushaka Bursary (for education students)
- Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship (for outstanding students)
To ensure you qualify for financial assistance, applicants should check the specific requirements for each bursary or loan scheme and apply accordingly.
Contact Information
For any inquiries, prospective students can contact UMP at the following details:
- Mbombela Campus: Cnr R40 and D725 Roads, Mbombela 1200
- Siyabuswa Campus: Bheki Mfundo Drive, Siyabuswa, South Africa
- Switchboard: 013 002 0001
- General Enquiries Email: info@ump.ac.za
- Applications/Registration Email: studentapplications@ump.ac.za
Check also: University of Zululand Applications for 2026
Applying to the University of Mpumalanga for the 2026 academic year offers a variety of programs, financial aid options, and opportunities for students to shape their future. The process is straightforward, but it’s essential to meet the application deadlines and provide all necessary documents. Make sure to check the university’s website for the latest information and start preparing your application as early as possible to ensure a smooth process.