NWU 2026 Application: Key Dates, Requirements, and How to Apply

North-West University Distance Learning Application 2026

NWU 2026 Application: Key Dates, Requirements, and How to Apply

The 2026 application period is officially underway, and North-West University (NWU) is inviting applications for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. All applications must be submitted online or manually.

Please review this page for important information on application dates, required documents, fees, and the steps involved in applying to this prestigious university.

NWU 2026 Application Date Breakdown

Be sure to submit your application according to the dates below to be considered for the 2026 intake

Application Opening Date: Tuesday, April 1, 2025
Most programs: Applications close on August 31, 2025.
Select programs: Applications close June 30, 2025. These include:
- Music
- Graphic Design
- Occupational Hygiene
- Urban and Regional Planning

Document Requirements for NWU 2026 Applications

You will require the documents listed below based on your qualifications.

Undergraduate students

Grade 12 results, Grade 11 results (final results only)
copy of your matric certificate – if you have already passed matric.
Copy of an Applicant’s Identity document
Copy of Applicant’s academic record (if applicable).
Applicants who are currently upgrading their grade 12 results, will only be considered after the improved results are presented to the NWU.
Applicants who follow Cambridge, GED, or any other non-NSC curriculum, or who may qualify for exemption based on advanced age or post-school qualifications, must provide an exemption certificate as issued by USAF.
Completed undertaking. see details on the official website
Additional documents for international prospective applicants:
- A copy of relevant results
- A copy of your passport

Postgraduate students

Completed mandatory undertaking
Copy of your ID
Copy of your academic record (if applicable).
Additional documents for international prospective students:
- A copy of relevant results
- A copy of your passport

N.B.: Ensure all the documents above are certified and scanned before you submit them.

NWU Application Fee

The application fee applies to all applicants, including international students, with different amounts for specific categories:

South African Citizens: R150 application fee
International Students: R600 application fee

How to Apply Online for NWU 2026

To apply online:

Go to the NWU online application portal.
Click “New application” and select “Create new student number.”
Complete all fields to activate your NWU ID.
Log in using your student number and PIN.
Access the application portal with your login details.
Select at least 2 study courses.
Check that you meet all program requirements.
Fill in your personal and academic information.
Upload required documents
Verify the accuracy of your information and documents.
Ensure all sections are complete before submitting.
Click “Apply” to submit your application.
Save a copy of your application confirmation.
Regularly check your application status on the NWU portal

What are the minimum requirements for a Degree, Diploma, and certificate?

Bachelor’s Degree: A NSC with at least 30% in the language of instruction and instruction used by the higher education institution (HEI), as well as an accomplishments rating of 4 (50-59%) or better in any four (4) NSC subjects other than life orientation.

Diploma: A passing grade for a diploma is 40 percent in four subjects with higher credits, 30 percent in three subjects with lesser credits, and one subject may fail.

Certificate: A certificate pass requires a 40% pass in your home language, 2 subjects above 40%, 4 subjects above 30% and you may fail 1 subject. This pass allows you to study for a higher certificate.

How to Check Your NWU Application Status

To track the status of your application:

Use a compatible browser to visit the NWU Application Status Portal at www.nwu.ac.za.
Select the “2026 Application Status” link.
Log in with your University Number and PIN.
Click to view your application status at NWU.

Registration for 2026 at NWU

Online registration for the 2026 academic year will open to all new students accepted for the intake. The registration period typically runs from January to February of the year of study. When you receive an offer to study at North-West University, make sure you have your registration fee and supporting documentation ready.