ANYTHING YOU WOULD LOVE TO KNOW ABOUT UNIVERSITIES IN SOUTH AFRICA
LATEST NEWS
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) typically opens its applications for undergraduate and postgraduate studies around April each year. Applications for the 2026 academic year are expected to open in April 2025.
Key points about UJ applications:
Applications are online only through the UJ website.
You must submit certified copies of your ID/passport, latest academic results, and other relevant documents.
There's no application fee for South African citizens.
Certain programmes (especially in Health Sciences and Art & Design) may close earlier due to limited spaces.
Applicants can track their application status online after submission.
Typical closing dates:
30 September 2025 for most undergraduate programmes.
31 October 2025 for postgraduate programmes (some might vary by faculty).
Early closing dates (around June or July 2025) apply for programmes like Architecture, Audiology, and Nursing.
For more info please visit: https://www.uj.ac.za/
Opening Date: 1 April
Closing Date: 31 October (most programs)
Application Fee: None (R0 for South African applicants)
2. University of Pretoria (UP)
Opening Date: 1 April
Closing Date: 30 June (most programs); some programs close later
Application Fee: R300 (non-refundable)
3. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Opening Date: 1 March
Closing Date: 30 September (undergraduate); earlier for some Health Sciences
Application Fee: R100 (South African citizens), R700 (International applicants)
4. University of Cape Town (UCT)
Opening Date: 2 April
Closing Date: 31 July (undergraduate); varies for postgraduates
Application Fee: R100 (South African citizens), R300 (International applicants)
5. Stellenbosch University (SU)
Opening Date: 1 April
Closing Date: 31 July (most programs); 30 June for Medicine
Application Fee: R100
6. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
Opening Date: 1 April
Closing Date: 30 September
Application Fee: R210 (manual applications); R0 if applying online
7. University of South Africa (UNISA)
Opening Date: 1 September
Closing Date: Mid-October (dates vary)
Application Fee: R135 (non-refundable)
8. North-West University (NWU)
Opening Date: 1 April
Closing Date: 30 September (some courses close earlier)
Application Fee: None (R0)
9. Rhodes University
Opening Date: 1 April
Closing Date: 30 September
Application Fee: R100
10. University of the Western Cape (UWC)
Opening Date: 13 May
Closing Date: 30 September
Application Fee: None (R0)
11. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
Opening Date: 1 April
Closing Date: 30 September
Application Fee: None (R0)
12. University of Fort Hare (UFH)
Opening Date: 1 June
Closing Date: 30 September
Application Fee: R120
Quick Notes:
Medicine and Health Science programs often have earlier closing dates (e.g., by end of June or July).
International students usually must apply earlier and pay higher application fees.
Always apply early — spaces in popular programs fill up fast!
North-West University Launches the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine (North-West University / Noordwes-Universiteit's Post - LinkedIn)
In a significant stride toward enhancing healthcare education in South Africa, North-West University (NWU) has announced the establishment of its medical school, aptly named the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine. This institution becomes the 11th medical school in the country, aiming to address the pressing shortage of healthcare professionals, particularly in the North West province. (North-West University medical school named NWU Desmond Tutu ...)
The decision to name the medical school after Archbishop Desmond Tutu reflects NWU's commitment to the values he championed—justice, equality, and human dignity. Dr. Mamphela Ramphele, chairperson of the Archbishop Desmond Tutu IP Trust, emphasized the appropriateness of this tribute, noting that Archbishop Tutu had once aspired to be a doctor before his ecclesiastical calling. The naming ceremony, held in April 2025, was attended by notable figures including Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Joe Phaahla and Premier of the North West Province Lazarus Mokgosi. (North-West University medical school named NWU Desmond Tutu ..., North-West University medical school named the NWU Desmond ...)
South Africa faces a critical shortage of medical professionals, with a doctor-to-patient ratio of approximately 0.31 per 1,000 people. The NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine aims to mitigate this gap by training doctors equipped to serve both urban and rural communities. The inaugural class is scheduled for 2028, starting with 50 students, and plans are in place to incrementally increase this number to 100 first-year students over the subsequent years. (A new breed – The thinking behind building a new medical school in ..., North-West University medical school named the NWU Desmond ..., North-West University to establish South Africa's 11th medical school)
The medical school's curriculum is being meticulously developed to offer a six-year MBChB program, catering to both first-time entrants and graduates. The program will emphasize a decentralized training approach, immersing students in community settings to better understand and address local healthcare needs. This model is designed to produce medical practitioners who are not only clinically competent but also socially responsive. (Meet the North West Medical Doctor | health-sciences.nwu.ac.za, medicine - NWU)
The establishment of the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine is a collaborative endeavor involving NWU, the North West Department of Health, and private sector stakeholders. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to transforming healthcare education and delivery in the region. As the school prepares to welcome its first cohort, it stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring legacy of Archbishop Desmond Tutu. (North-West University medical school named NWU Desmond Tutu ..., North-West University / Noordwes-Universiteit's Post - LinkedIn)
For more information and updates on the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine, visit the official NWU website: NWU Medical School.
If you're planning to study at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) in Pretoria, you've made an excellent choice. TUT is one of South Africa's largest and most respected universities of technology, offering a wide range of programs. Whether you're finishing matric or upgrading your qualifications, this guide will walk you through the application process from start to finish.
Applications to TUT usually open around March or April each year and close by the end of September. However, these dates may vary depending on the program you're applying for. Always double-check the latest information on the official TUT website: www.tut.ac.za.
Tip: Applying early improves your chances of acceptance, especially in competitive courses.
TUT offers diplomas, advanced diplomas, and degrees in a variety of fields, including:
Engineering & the Built Environment
Science
Humanities
Information & Communication Technology (ICT)
Arts
Business & Management Sciences
Education
Make sure you meet the Admission Point Score (APS) and specific subject requirements for your chosen program. You can calculate your APS using your Grade 11 or 12 results.
TUT no longer accepts manual (paper) applications. Here’s how to apply online:
Go to www.tut.ac.za and click on "Apply Now" or navigate to “Online Application.”
Create a profile using a valid email address. Keep your login details safe—you'll use them to track your application.
Enter your personal information and academic history accurately. Select the course you want to study and your preferred campus (Pretoria, Soshanguve, eMalahleni, etc.).
Scan and upload certified copies (no older than 3 months) of:
Your ID or passport
Latest school results (Grade 11 or 12)
Proof of residence (if required)
Any other relevant qualifications
Once you're sure everything is correct, submit your application. You’ll receive a reference/student number via email or SMS.
After applying, you can check your application status by visiting the “Check Your Status” link on the TUT website. Have your student number ready.
Be patient—application processing can take several weeks, especially during peak periods.
If you require financial assistance, make sure to apply for NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) as early as possible. Visit www.nsfas.org.za for details on eligibility and deadlines.
Double-check that all documents are certified and clear.
Use a computer instead of a phone when applying—it's easier to upload files and navigate the portal.
If you experience problems, contact TUT via their call centre, email, or official WhatsApp line.
Keep copies of everything you submit.
Applying to TUT in Pretoria doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right information and preparation, you can submit a successful application and take the first step toward your future. Be proactive, stay organized, and good luck!