2027 University Applications South Africa

2027 University Applications South Africa is now open at public universities across the country, giving prospective students an opportunity to secure a place for the 2027 academic year. Every year, thousands of learners wait until the final weeks to submit their applications, only to discover that some programmes have already reached capacity or that important closing dates have passed.

Applying early gives you a much better chance of being considered for your preferred qualification and campus. Many universities process applications as they are received, especially for competitive programmes such as medicine, nursing, veterinary science, architecture, and other qualifications with limited spaces. Waiting until the deadline may reduce your options, even if you meet the admission requirements.

This page has been created to help students compare application dates, fees, and official application links for all South African public universities in one place. Whether you are applying to a university of technology, a traditional university, or a comprehensive institution, you will find the latest opening dates, closing dates, APS guidance, and application tips to help you submit a complete application before the deadline.

In addition to application dates, this guide also explains how the university application process works, what documents are usually required, how CAO applications operate in KwaZulu-Natal, and what students should know before applying for NSFAS funding. The information is organised by province so that you can quickly find the universities that are relevant to your studies.

Use this page as your central 2027 University Applications South Africa guide and check back regularly, as application dates and requirements may be updated by universities throughout the application season.

Why You Should Apply for University Early

2027 University Applications South Africa is now opening at public universities across the country, giving prospective students an opportunity to secure a place for the 2027 academic year. Every year, thousands of learners wait until the last minute to submit their applications, only to discover that some programmes have already reached capacity or that important closing dates have passed.

Applying early gives you a much better chance of being considered for your preferred qualification and campus. Many universities process applications as they are received, especially for programmes with limited spaces such as medicine, nursing, veterinary science, occupational therapy, architecture, and other competitive qualifications. Waiting until the final weeks may reduce your options, even if you meet the admission requirements.

Submitting your application early also gives you enough time to correct any mistakes. Universities may request additional documents, updated academic results, or proof of payment where application fees apply. If you apply close to the deadline, there may not be enough time to resolve these issues before applications close.

Another important reason to apply early is that many funding opportunities, including bursaries and student financial aid, require proof that you have already applied to a university. Completing your applications as soon as they open allows you to apply for financial assistance without unnecessary delays.

Many students also apply to several universities instead of relying on only one institution. This increases their chances of receiving at least one admission offer and provides more options when final matric results are released. Since most 2027 university applications for South African public universities allow learners to submit online applications, applying to multiple institutions has become easier than ever.

Planning ahead also reduces stress during your final school examinations. Instead of rushing to complete applications while preparing for matric exams, you can focus on your studies knowing that your university applications have already been submitted.

What You Will Find on This Page

This 2027 University Applications South Africa page has been created to serve as a complete guide for students applying to South African public universities for the 2027 academic year. Instead of visiting dozens of university websites individually, you can use this resource to compare institutions, check important dates, and access official application portals in one place.

On this page you will find:

  • Complete list of all South African public universities
  • Application opening dates
  • Application closing dates
  • Application fees
  • Official university application links
  • Province-by-province university directory
  • APS score information
  • Required application documents
  • CAO application information
  • NSFAS application guidance
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Important application tips and reminders

This guide will be updated regularly throughout the 2026 application season to ensure students have access to the latest available information. Since universities may occasionally revise their application dates or admission requirements, we recommend bookmarking this page and checking back regularly for updates.

Why University Application Deadlines Matter

Every South African public university sets its own application opening and closing dates. These deadlines are extremely important because universities generally do not accept late applications once the application cycle has officially closed.

Some qualifications have much earlier closing dates than others. Health Sciences, Veterinary Science, Architecture, Nursing, and certain Education programmes often close several months before general undergraduate applications. Students who miss these early deadlines may have to wait until the following academic year before applying again.

Meeting application deadlines also allows universities enough time to assess applications, verify academic records, and communicate admission decisions before registration begins. Missing a closing date means your application may not be considered at all, regardless of your academic performance.

For this reason, applicants should avoid waiting until the final day. Heavy website traffic near closing dates may cause delays, technical issues, or difficulties uploading documents. Submitting your application early helps avoid these problems and provides peace of mind.

As application dates occasionally change, applicants should also monitor official university announcements throughout the application period to stay informed about any updates or extended deadlines.

How University Applications Work in South Africa

Applying 2027 University Applications South Africa is a straightforward process if you understand the requirements and submit your application before the closing date. Every public university manages its own admissions, while some institutions in KwaZulu-Natal use the Central Applications Office (CAO) to process applications.

Below is a simple guide explaining how the application process works.

1. Choose the University and Qualification

The first step is deciding which university and qualification you want to study. Every university offers different programmes, admission requirements, and closing dates.

Before applying, make sure you:

  • Choose a course that matches your interests and career goals.
  • Check that you meet the minimum admission requirements.
  • Compare different universities offering the same qualification.
  • Verify whether the programme has limited spaces.

Applying to more than one university increases your chances of receiving an admission offer.

2. Check the Admission Requirements

Each university has its own admission requirements for every qualification.

Most universities consider:

  • Your National Senior Certificate (NSC) results
  • Your APS (Admission Point Score)
  • Subject requirements
  • English language requirements
  • Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy requirements

Some programmes such as medicine, engineering, nursing, law, architecture, and health sciences may have additional selection requirements, interviews, or portfolio submissions.

Always check the official admission requirements before applying.

3. Prepare the Required Documents

Before starting your online application, make sure you have all the required documents ready.

Most universities ask for:

  • Certified copy of your South African ID or passport
  • Grade 11 final results (if currently in Grade 12)
  • National Senior Certificate (if you have already completed Matric)
  • Academic transcripts (for current tertiary students)
  • Proof of payment (if an application fee is required)
  • Proof of residence (where applicable)

Some universities may request additional documents depending on the programme you choose.

Preparing these documents early helps avoid delays during the application process.

4. Complete the Online Application

Most South African public universities allow students to apply online through their official application portals.

During the application process, you will usually be required to:

  • Create an online account.
  • Enter your personal information.
  • Select the qualification(s) you want to study.
  • Upload the required supporting documents.
  • Pay the application fee if applicable.
  • Submit your application.

Some universities allow applicants to choose multiple study programmes on a single application.

Always double-check your information before submitting.

5. Track Your Application Status

After submitting your application, you will receive a student number or reference number.

Keep this number safe because you will use it to:

  • Track your application status.
  • Upload outstanding documents.
  • Accept admission offers.
  • Communicate with the university admissions office.

Most universities provide an online portal where applicants can monitor the progress of their applications.

6. Receive an Admission Decision

Once the university has assessed your application, you may receive one of the following outcomes:

  • Accepted
  • Provisionally accepted
  • Waitlisted
  • Additional documents requested
  • Application unsuccessful

Some universities release decisions in stages, so applicants should regularly check their email and application portal for updates.

7. Accept Your Offer

If you receive an admission offer, you must accept it before the deadline provided by the university.

Failure to accept an offer within the required period may result in your place being offered to another applicant.

Some universities may also request:

  • Residence applications
  • Registration documents
  • Financial information
  • NSFAS confirmation (where applicable)

Important Tips Before Applying

To improve your chances of a successful application:

  • Apply as soon as applications open.
  • Apply to more than one university.
  • Read all admission requirements carefully.
  • Upload clear and certified documents.
  • Use a valid email address and cellphone number.
  • Keep copies of all submitted documents.
  • Regularly check your application status after submission.

Now that you understand how university applications work in South Africa, the next section lists every public university that is open for 2027 applications, including application opening dates, closing dates, application fees, and official application links.

Quick Navigation

  • Eastern Cape
  • Free State
  • Gauteng
  • KwaZulu-Natal
  • Limpopo
  • Mpumalanga
  • North West
  • Northern Cape
  • Western Cape
  • UNISA

Public University Application Dates for 2027

INSTITUTIONAPPLICATION FEEAPPLICATIONS OPENAPPLICATIONS CLOSEAPPLICATION LINK
Eastern Cape
Nelson Mandela University
(NMU)		Online application is free.
R500 for international students		01 April 202630 June 2026 – Health Sciences;
30 September 2026 – all other Faculties		https://www.mandela.ac.za/Study-at-Mandela/Application/Academic-admission
Rhodes UniversityR10001 April 202630 September 2026https://www.ru.ac.za/admissiongateway/
University of Fort Hare
(UFH)		Online application is free.
R500 for International Students		01 April 202630 September 2026https://www.ufh.ac.za/apply/apply-undergraduate
Walter Sisulu University
(WSU)		Online application is free01 April 202630 September 2026 – Health Sciences;
31 October 2026, all other faculties		https://applications.wsu.ac.za/
Free State
Central University of Technology
(CUT)		Online application is free01 April 202630 September 2026https://www.cut.ac.za/
application-process
University of the Free State
(KOVSIES)		Online application is free01 April 202631 May 2026 – Faculty of Health Sciences; 
31 July 2026 – Architecture, Social Work and Nursing;
30 September 2025 – all other programmes		https://apply.ufs.ac.za/Application/Start
Gauteng
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
(SMU)		R30001 April 202631 July 2026https://www.smu.ac.za/students/apply/online-application/
Tshwane University of Technology
(TUT)		R25001 April 202631 July 2026 – Faculty of Arts, Agriculture, Education, Health Science, Humanities
30 September 2026 – all other applications		https://applications-prod.tut.ac.za/
University of Johannesburg
(UJ)		Online application is free01 April 202631 October 2026 @ 12h00https://www.uj.ac.za/admission-aid/apply/
University of Pretoria
(TUKS)		R30001 April 202631 May 2026 – Faculty of Veterinary Science;
30 June 2026 – all other programme’s		https://www.up.ac.za/online-application
University of Witwatersrand
(WITS)		R100 South African student applications
R700 for international student applications		01 March 202630 June 2026 – Faculty of Health Sciences (all programmes); Bachelor of Architecture; Bachelor of Audiology; Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology; BA Film and TV; 
30 September 2026 – all other programme’s		https://www.wits.ac.za/undergraduate/apply-to-wits/
Vaal University of Technology
(VUT)		R15001 April 202630 September 2026https://www.vut.ac.za/apply-to-vut/
KZN
Durban University of Technology
(DUT)		R250 South African student applications
R300 for international student applications		01 March 202631 July 2026 – Faculty of Arts; Health Science
30 September 2026 – all other applications		www.cao.ac.za
Mangosuthu University of Technology
(MUT)		R250 South African student applications
R300 for international student applications		01 March 202630 September 2026www.cao.ac.za
University of KwaZulu Natal
(UKZN)		R250 South African student applications
R300 for international student applications		01 March 202630 June 2026 – Health Sciences Faculty for Medicine; 
30 September 2026 – all other courses		www.cao.ac.za
University of Zululand
(UZulu)		R250 South African student applications
R300 for international student applications		01 April 202630 August 2026 – Health Sciences, Social Work;
30 September 2026 – Nursing Science, all other programmes		www.cao.ac.za
Limpopo
University of Limpopo
(Turfloop)		R200 for South African students
R750 for international students		01 April 202620 June 2026 – MBChB programme;
30 September 2026 – all other programmes’		https://www.ul.ac.za/admissions/undergraduate-studies/
University of Venda
(Univen)		Online application is free01 May 202625 September 2026https://www.univen.ac.za/students/student-support-services/how-to-apply/apply-online/
University of Mpumalanga
(UMP)		R200 South African students
R550 for international student applications		01 June 202630 November 2026https://www.ump.ac.za/Study-with-us/Application-Process/Online-Applications
North West University
(Pukke)		Online application is free.
R600 for International Students		01 April 202630 June 2026 – Health Sciences; 
31 August 2026 – all other Faculties		https://applynow.nwu.ac.za/OnlineApplication/
Northern Cape
Sol Plaatje University (SPU)R10001 April 202630 September 2026https://www.spu.ac.za/index.php/how-to-apply/
Western Cape
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
(CPUT)		Online application is free.
R150 for a manual application;
Late application fee:  R160		01 April 202631 August 2026 – all applications;
30 September 2026 – late applications (additional fee may be applicable)		https://www.cput.ac.za/study
University of Cape Town
(UCT)		R100 South African students
R300 for international student applications		01 April 202631 July 2026https://uct.ac.za/students/applications-apply-undergraduate-qualifications/application-procedure
University of Stellenbosch
(MARTIES)		R100 South African students
R400 for international student applications		01 April 202631 July 2026https://www.su.ac.za/en/apply/undergrad/apply-0/how-apply
University of the Western Cape (UWC)Online application is free01 May 202630 September 2026https://www.uwc.ac.za/admission-and-financial-aid/apply/undergraduate-applications
University of South Africa
(UNISA) Online		R12001 August 202610 October 2026https://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/corporate/default/Apply-for-admission/Undergraduate-qualifications

APS Explained (Admission Point Score)

One of the most important requirements when applying to a South African university is your Admission Point Score (APS). Every public university uses the APS system to determine whether you qualify for a particular course or programme.

Before submitting your application, it is important to understand how APS works because meeting the minimum APS requirement is often the first step towards being considered for admission.

Although each university has its own admission requirements, most institutions calculate APS using your best National Senior Certificate (NSC) subjects. Some competitive programmes, such as medicine, engineering, law, nursing, and health sciences, usually require a much higher APS than the university’s minimum admission requirement.

What is an APS Score?

APS stands for Admission Point Score. It is a points system used by South African universities to evaluate your Matric results and determine whether you qualify for a specific programme.

Instead of looking only at your overall average, universities convert your subject percentages into APS points.

Each subject contributes a certain number of points based on the percentage you achieved.

The higher your APS score, the more programmes you may qualify for.

How is the APS calculated?

Most universities calculate APS using your best six or seven recognised National Senior Certificate (NSC) subjects.

Life Orientation is usually not included, although some universities may calculate it differently.

Why is APS Important?

Universities use APS to compare applicants fairly and determine whether they meet the academic requirements for admission.

A higher APS score can:

  • Increase your chances of being accepted.
  • Help you qualify for competitive programmes.
  • Improve your chances of receiving a bursary or scholarship.
  • Make you eligible for additional study options.

However, having the required APS does not automatically guarantee admission. Some programmes have limited spaces and may require higher scores than the published minimum.

Do All Universities Use the Same APS System?

No. While most public universities use an APS system, the way they calculate points may differ slightly.

For example:

  • Some universities exclude life orientation from the calculation.
  • Others may include seven subjects instead of six.
  • Certain programmes place greater emphasis on subjects such as mathematics, physical sciences, accounting, or English.

For this reason, always check the admission requirements published by the university before applying.

Can I Apply Using Grade 11 Results?

Yes. Most South African universities allow current Grade 12 learners to apply using their final Grade 11 results or their latest Grade 12 results if available.

Once final matric results are released, the university will reassess your application using your National Senior Certificate results before making a final admission decision.

Applying early using Grade 11 results is highly recommended because many universities close applications before matric final examinations.

APS Requirements for Different Qualifications

The APS required depends on the qualification you want to study for.

For example:

  • Higher certificate programmes generally require a lower APS.
  • Diploma programmes usually require a moderate APS.
  • Bachelor’s degree programmes often require a higher APS.
  • Competitive qualifications such as medicine, engineering, veterinary science, law, pharmacy, and health sciences normally require one of the highest APS scores.

Always check the APS requirements for your chosen programme on the official university website before applying.

Tips to Improve Your APS

If you are still in Grade 12, there are several ways to improve your APS before final examinations:

  • Focus on improving mathematics and English marks.
  • Pay extra attention to compulsory admission subjects.
  • Attend revision classes and study groups.
  • Complete past examination papers regularly.
  • Seek assistance from teachers if you are struggling with specific subjects.

Even a small improvement in your final marks can significantly increase your APS score and expand your university options.

Need Help Calculating Your APS?

If you’re unsure how to calculate your Admission Point Score, don’t worry. SA Jobs Daily provides easy-to-follow APS guides and university-specific information to help you understand the admission requirements for different institutions.

Before submitting your university applications, calculate your APS carefully and compare it with the admission requirements for your preferred qualification.

NSFAS Reminder: University Applications and NSFAS Applications Are Separate

Many first-time applicants make the mistake of thinking that applying to a university automatically means they have applied for NSFAS. This is not true.

If you need financial assistance to pay for your studies, you must complete two separate applications:

  1. Apply for admission to the university of your choice.
  2. Apply for NSFAS funding through the official NSFAS application portal when applications open.

Submitting a university application does not automatically submit an NSFAS application, and applying for NSFAS does not mean you have been accepted by a university. Both applications are processed independently, and each has its own requirements, opening dates, and closing dates.

For the best chance of studying in 2027, apply to your preferred universities as soon as applications open, and submit your NSFAS application during the official NSFAS application period if you meet the funding requirements.

What Does NSFAS Cover?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial support to eligible South African students who cannot afford the cost of higher education.

Depending on your eligibility and the institution where you study, NSFAS funding may include the following:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (where applicable)
  • Learning materials and textbooks
  • Meal allowances
  • Personal care allowance (where applicable)
  • Transport allowance for qualifying students

Funding is subject to the NSFAS eligibility criteria and annual funding rules.

Who Can Apply for NSFAS?

To qualify for NSFAS funding, applicants generally need to:

  • Be a South African citizen or permanent resident who meets NSFAS requirements.
  • Intend to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Meet the NSFAS household income threshold.
  • Meet the academic progression requirements if they are continuing students.

Applicants should always check the latest NSFAS eligibility requirements before applying.

When Should You Apply?

Do not wait until you receive a university admission decision before applying for NSFAS.

Instead:

  • Apply to universities as soon as applications open.
  • Apply for NSFAS once the official NSFAS application window opens.
  • Keep copies of all supporting documents.
  • Regularly check your email and application portals for updates.

Applying early helps you avoid missing important deadlines and gives you enough time to correct any issues with your application.

Important Reminder

Applying to a university does not automatically apply you for NSFAS, and applying for NSFAS does not guarantee university admission. To study with NSFAS funding, you must successfully complete both applications separately.

CAO Applications Explained

If you plan to study in KwaZulu-Natal, you should understand how the Central Applications Office (CAO) works before submitting your university application.

Unlike most South African universities, which require you to apply directly through their own online application systems, several universities in KwaZulu-Natal use the CAO to process undergraduate applications.

This means you do not apply separately to each participating university. Instead, you complete one CAO application, and you can apply for multiple programmes at different universities using the same application.

What is the CAO?

The Central Applications Office (CAO) is an organisation responsible for processing undergraduate applications for several public universities and colleges in KwaZulu-Natal.

Rather than visiting different university websites and completing several application forms, students only need to submit one application through the CAO website.

After your application is submitted, the CAO sends your information to each university and programme you selected.

This system makes the application process easier, saves time, and reduces the need to complete multiple applications.

Universities That Use the CAO

The following public universities use the CAO application system:

  • Durban University of Technology (DUT)
  • Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
  • University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
  • University of Zululand (UNIZULU)

If you want to study at any of these institutions, you must apply through the CAO instead of applying directly on the university website.

How the CAO Application Works

The CAO application process is simple and allows you to apply for several programmes at the same time.

Step 1: Create a CAO Application

Visit the official CAO website and register your application using your personal details.

Step 2: Choose Your Study Programmes

During your application, you can select several courses from different participating universities.

For example, you could apply for the following:

  • Engineering at DUT
  • Accounting at UKZN
  • Information Technology at MUT
  • Education at UNIZULU

All these programme choices can be included in one application.

Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents

Prepare and upload the required documents, which usually include:

  • South African ID or passport
  • Grade 11 final results or Grade 12 results
  • Proof of payment (if an application fee applies)
  • Any additional documents requested by the universities

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

Some applicants may need to pay a once-off CAO application fee.

Always check the latest fee on the official CAO website before submitting your application.

Step 5: Track Your Application

Once your application has been submitted, you can log in to your CAO profile at any time to:

  • Check your application status
  • View offers received
  • Update your contact details
  • Accept or decline study offers

Can One CAO Application Cover Multiple Universities?

Yes.

One of the biggest advantages of the CAO system is that a single application allows you to apply to several universities and multiple study programmes.

This improves your chances of receiving an offer because your application can be considered by more than one institution.

For example, if your first-choice programme is unsuccessful, another university or programme on your application may still offer you a place.

Benefits of Applying Through the CAO

Using the CAO system offers several advantages, including:

  • One application for multiple universities.
  • Easier management of your applications.
  • Ability to choose several study programmes.
  • Online tracking of your application status.
  • Less paperwork than applying separately to each institution.
  • Convenient application process for KwaZulu-Natal universities.

Important Reminder

Applying through the CAO does not automatically apply for NSFAS funding.

If you require financial assistance, you must submit a separate NSFAS application once the NSFAS application period opens.

Likewise, applying through the CAO does not guarantee admission. Each university will assess your application based on its admission requirements, APS score, subject requirements, and available space.

Related pages: