It’s that exciting time of year for prospective students as universities are now open for 2025 applications in South Africa.
Today, we’ll provide a comprehensive list of universities across South Africa that have commenced their 2025 application processes.
Each university’s prospectus is included to give you insights into the programs they currently offer.
Additionally, we’ve compiled useful tips for navigating the online application process, ensuring a smooth experience for applicants.
Let’s dive in.
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
Located in Gauteng province, UJ is currently accepting applications for 2025. Due to its high demand, we recommend applying promptly to secure your spot.
Closing date: October 31, 2024
Application fee: R200 for hard copy, FREE for online applications
Number of campuses: 4
Prospectus: UJ Prospectus 2025
Apply here: University of Johannesburg Online Application
- University of Witwatersrand (Wits)
Wits, the 3rd oldest university in South Africa, has opened its doors for 2025 applications. Situated in Gauteng province, Wits offers diverse opportunities for prospective students.
Closing date: August 2024
Application fee: R100
Number of campuses: 5
Prospectus: Wits 2025 Prospectus
Apply here: University of Witwatersrand Online Application
- University of Pretoria (UP)
UP, a popular choice among students, is now accepting applications for 2025. With its 9 faculties and business school, UP offers a wide array of academic programs.
Closing date: June 30, 2024
Application fee: FREE for eligible households
Number of campuses: 7
Prospectus: UP Prospectus 2025
Apply here: University of Pretoria Online Application
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
TUT, the largest university in South Africa, is open for 2025 admissions. With 7 faculties and over 400 career options, TUT provides ample opportunities for prospective students.
Closing date: August 2024
Application fee: R240
Number of campuses: 9
Prospectus: TUT 2025 Prospectus
Apply here: Tshwane University of Technology Online Application
- Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
SMU is accepting applications for 2025 admissions, particularly for those interested in health sciences. With 5 schools under its umbrella, SMU offers specialized programs in various healthcare fields.
Closing date: July 31, 2024
Application fee: R300
Number of campuses: 1
Prospectus: SMU Prospectus 2025
Apply here: Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University Online Application
- University of ZuluLand (UniZulu)
Based in KwaZulu Natal province, UniZulu is open for 2025 applications. Prospective students can tailor their degrees to suit their interests at UniZulu.
Closing date: September 2024
Application fee: R250 via CAO
Number of campuses: 2
Prospectus: UniZulu Prospectus 2025
Apply here: University of Zululand Online Application
- University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN)
UKZN is welcoming students for the upcoming academic year. Renowned for its ranking, UKZN offers a conducive learning environment across its 5 campuses.
Closing date: September 2024
Application fee: R250 via CAO
Number of campuses: 5
Prospectus: UKZN Prospectus 2025
Apply here: University of KwaZulu Natal Online Application
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
DUT is one of the universities open for 2025 applications. With a diverse range of courses, DUT prepares students for various career paths.
Closing date: September 2024
Application fee: R250 via CAO
Number of campuses: 5
Prospectus: DUT Prospectus 2025
Apply here: Durban University of Technology Online Application
- University of Free State (UFS)
UFS is currently accepting applications for 2025. With its focus on producing highly employable graduates, UFS offers world-class education across its 3 campuses.
Closing date: August 2024
Application fee: FREE
Number of campuses: 3
Prospectus: UFS Prospectus 2025
Apply here: University of Free State Online Application
- North West University (NWU)
NWU, situated in the North West province, is open for 2025 applications until May 2024. Renowned for its academic excellence, NWU ranks among the top universities globally.
Closing date: August 31, 2024
Application fee: FREE
Number of campuses: 3
Prospectus: NWU Prospectus 2025
Apply here: North West University Online Application
- Stellenbosch University (SUN)
Stellenbosch University is currently open for 2025 applications. Located in the Western Cape, SUN consistently ranks among the top universities worldwide in various disciplines.
Closing date: July 31, 2024
Application fee: R100
Number of campuses: 5
Prospectus: SUN Yearbooks
Apply here: Stellenbosch University Online Application
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
UCT, one of the oldest universities in South Africa, is now accepting applications for 2025. Home to the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences, UCT offers a range of academic programs.
Closing date: July 31, 2024
Application fee: R100
Number of campuses: 6
Prospectus: UCT Prospectus 2025
Apply here: Cape Town University Online Application
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
NMU is accepting applications for 2025 admissions. With 7 faculties, NMU provides a conducive learning environment for students in the Eastern Cape.
Closing date: August 2024
Application fee: FREE
Number of campuses: 7
Prospectus: NMU Prospectus 2025
Apply here: NMU Online Application
- Rhodes University (RU)
Rhodes University is open for 2025 admissions. Renowned for its high-quality education, RU offers internationally recognized degrees.
Closing date: August 2024
Application fee: R100
Number of campuses: 1
Prospectus: Rhodes Prospectus 2025
Apply here: Rhodes University Online Application
Tips for Applying Online for 2025 Applications
Applying online can be daunting, but with these tips, you can navigate the process smoothly:
Research and Choose Wisely: Select universities aligned with your academic goals and preferences.
Check Admission Requirements: Review admission criteria for each program.
Organize Required Documents: Gather necessary documents beforehand.
Prepare for Online Application Platforms: Familiarize yourself with the application platforms.
Double-Check Information: Ensure accuracy before submitting.
Meet Deadlines: Submit applications before deadlines.
Follow Up and Stay Informed: Check email regularly for updates.
Conclusion
As application season commences, ensure timely submissions to secure your spot at your desired university.
Best of luck with your applications!
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.
```