South African Universities Application Forms 2028 – Application Dates and Admission Guide

Are you looking for South African university application forms for the 2028 academic year? Universities across South Africa offer a wide range of study opportunities for students who want to pursue higher certificates, diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, honours degrees, postgraduate diplomas, master’s degrees, and doctoral qualifications.

South Africa has 26 public universities, each with its own application process, admission requirements, and closing dates. Most institutions accept applications online, while some may provide alternative submission methods for specific circumstances.

Applications for the 2028 academic year are expected to open at different times during 2027, depending on the university and programme. Prospective students should check the official university websites for confirmed opening dates, application fees, required documents, and deadlines.

How to Apply to a South African University for 2028

Applying to university requires careful planning. Follow these steps to prepare your application and avoid missing important deadlines.

1. Choose Your Preferred University

Start by identifying the universities that offer your preferred course. Compare their programmes, admission requirements, campuses, and available study options before deciding where to apply.

You can apply to more than one institution, provided you meet the relevant requirements and follow each university’s application procedures.

2. Check the Application Opening and Closing Dates

Every university sets its own application dates. Some institutions open their application portals as early as March or April, while others begin accepting applications later in the year.

Check the dates for your chosen programme because certain courses, particularly those with limited spaces, may close before the general application deadline.

3. Prepare Your Supporting Documents

Gather the documents required by your chosen university before starting the application. Make sure scanned documents are clear and saved in the file formats accepted by the institution.

Commonly requested documents include identification, school results, academic transcripts, and proof of payment where an application fee applies.

4. Complete the Online Application Form

Most South African universities allow prospective students to apply through an online application portal. Enter your personal details correctly, select your preferred qualifications, and upload the required documents.

Some universities may offer alternative application arrangements, but applicants should confirm these directly with the institution.

5. Pay the Application Fee, If Required

Application fees differ between universities. Some institutions offer free applications, while others require payment before processing an application.

Check the official payment instructions and keep your proof of payment if a fee is required.

6. Submit Your Application and Track Its Progress

Review your application carefully before submitting it. Once you have applied, save your reference number and check your application status regularly for updates, additional document requests, or admission decisions.

Documents Required to Apply to Universities in South Africa

The documents you need depend on your current educational level, nationality, and chosen qualification. However, applicants are commonly asked to provide some of the following:

A certified copy of your South African ID or passport.
Your latest Grade 11 results or Grade 12 results, depending on the application requirements.
Your final matric certificate, if you have already completed Grade 12.
Academic transcripts and certificates for applicants with previous tertiary education.
Proof of payment, where an application fee is required.
Additional documents requested for specific courses or faculties.
Proof of English language proficiency, where applicable for international applicants.
Relevant immigration or study permit documents, as required by the university and South African authorities.

Some universities may request further information, such as proof of residence or supporting financial documents. Always follow the document checklist published by your chosen institution.

Important: Submit copies of your documents through the approved application process. Do not send original certificates unless the university specifically requires them through an authorised procedure.

Application Information for International Students

International students who wish to study in South Africa must meet the academic and immigration requirements applicable to their circumstances.

Before applying, check whether your qualifications are recognised for admission to your preferred programme. You may also need to provide certified academic records, proof of English proficiency, or other documents requested by the university.

After receiving an offer of admission, follow the university’s instructions for obtaining the documentation needed for your study visa. Admission to a university does not automatically grant permission to study in South Africa.

International applicants should also confirm application deadlines and fees because these may differ from those for South African applicants.

South African University Application Opening Dates for 2028

Universities do not all open their applications at the same time. The table below provides a general guide to the expected application periods. These are planning estimates rather than confirmed dates for every institution.

Expected opening period	Universities
March 2027	Rhodes University, Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
April 2027	University of Cape Town (UCT), University of the Free State (UFS), University of Pretoria (UP), Nelson Mandela University (NMU), University of Johannesburg (UJ), Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), Durban University of Technology (DUT), Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), University of Zululand (UNIZULU), North-West University (NWU), Stellenbosch University, Sol Plaatje University (SPU)
May 2027	Walter Sisulu University (WSU), University of the Western Cape (UWC), University of Venda (UNIVEN), Central University of Technology (CUT), University of Mpumalanga (UMP)
June 2027	University of Fort Hare (UFH), Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
August or September 2027	University of South Africa (UNISA), depending on the qualification and application period

Opening dates can change from one application cycle to another. Some universities also open particular programmes earlier or later than their general application period. Check the official university website for the confirmed 2028 dates before applying.

Will Universities Accept Late Applications for 2028?

Some universities accept late applications when places remain available in selected programmes. However, late applications are not guaranteed, and some institutions do not reopen their application portals after the official deadline.

Highly competitive programmes may fill their available spaces before the general closing date. Students should therefore apply as early as possible instead of relying on a late application opportunity.

If you miss a deadline, visit the university’s official website to determine whether late applications are permitted for your chosen qualification. Do not assume that every course will remain available.

Final Advice for Students Applying for 2028

Planning ahead can make the university application process easier. Start researching your preferred institutions early, prepare your supporting documents, and keep track of application announcements.

Most importantly, confirm the official opening dates, fees, admission requirements, and closing dates for each programme. Applying early gives you more time to resolve document problems and complete the process correctly.

Keep checking university websites throughout 2027 for updates about the 2028 academic intake.