Universities Open and Taking 2026 Applications

Universities Open and Taking 2026 Applications, Universities Open and Taking 2026 Applications, Institutions Now Open for 2026 Applications

This year marks the start of application season once again, and you may be considering applying to your preferred university to pursue undergraduate or graduate degrees. However, the real question is: “Are universities accepting applications for the 2026 academic year?” You’re very welcome.

Select an ideal future with one of the universities in South Africa and start your application to study in 2026 now. The application cycle for 2026 is about to begin at most universities, so you need to prepare as quickly as possible. Remember that universities can only accommodate a limited number of students, so be swift in your preparation.

Article Highlights

We’ll talk about the following important topics in this article.

The Number of Universities in South Africa
General application dates
Opening and Closing Dates For Application
When to apply
Which University is open for 2025 application in South Africa
Which applications are open for 2025?
Application Documents Required
Application Fee Requirements
Entry and Admission Requirements
Steps to apply

South Africa: A Land of 26 Public Universities and Endless Opportunities

South Africa has 26 public universities, each offering unique undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Many of these universities rank highly globally, reflecting the quality of their research and education. You can pursue undergraduate courses such as diplomas, higher certificates, postgraduate diplomas, honours degrees, and bachelor’s degrees. Undergraduate and master’s candidates can also pursue master’s and doctorate qualifications, respectively

General University application dates in South Africa

Depending on the university and qualification you intend to apply for, there are different application dates. Generally,

Undergraduate applications: Most South African universities will accept undergraduate applications for bachelor’s degrees, postgraduate diplomas, higher certificates, and diplomas between April 1 and September 30, 2025. Remember there are courses with earlier closing dates at most of the universities.

Postgraduate applications: Applications for master’s, honours, and doctorate degrees in South Africa will be open from April 1 to October 31, 2025. You need to know when your course will be closed.

Opening and Closing Dates For University Application

You can apply to study in South Africa starting April 1st, 2025, for the 2026 academic year. Due to space limits, applications should be sent as soon as feasible. To avoid missing the deadline, we recommend that potential students begin applying on April 1st. We expect the 2026 application process to end on October 31, 2025.

When to apply to a university in South Africa: Application status

Domestic Students Grade 12 Students:

Most universities in South Africa accept applications between April and August of your Grade 12 year. You’ll apply using your final Grade 11 results and, if accepted provisionally, the offer becomes final based on your Grade 12 results. Some universities may offer early applications in February/March, but this is less common.

Domestic Students Grade 11:

Some universities (though not all) accept applications during your Grade 11 year, using your preliminary or mid-year results. This can help secure early offers, but you’ll still need to meet the final requirements in Grade 12.

Which applications are open for 2026?

As already discussed, the 2026 general application window for both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications will begin on April 1, 2025, and end on October 31, 2025. Find out from the official website of your preferred university.

Application Supporting Documents Required

Start gathering the documents below so you can apply early

Certified copy of your matric certificate
Official academic transcripts
Certified copy of your ID document
Proof of payment

International students

Valid passport
Academic transcripts and certificates
Proof of English language proficiency:
Visa
Medical insurance
SAQA evaluation (for postgraduate studies only)
Letters of recommendation
Bank statements, scholarships, or sponsorship letters.

A Guide to South African University Application Fees

Generally, application fees vary between universities, ranging from free to around R700. Most universities offer online payment options, while some still accept bank or cash deposits. Third-party platforms like CAO also allow payments that cover multiple institutions. You should check the official website of your chosen university to find out whether or not there are application fee requirements

Entry and Admission Requirements

National Senior Certificate (NSC): This is the standard high school leaving qualification in South Africa. You’ll need to have passed at least 4 subjects at a rating of 4 (50-59%) or better, including English and any required subjects for your chosen degree program. Prospective students should apply with their final Grade 11 (or equivalent) results.

Matriculation Endorsement: This confirms that your NSC meets the minimum requirements for university entrance.

International Qualifications: If you’re applying with qualifications from another country, you’ll need to get them evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) to ensure they’re equivalent to the NSC.

Please note:

It should be noted that fulfilling the minimum academic requirements does not ensure admission. Notification of conditional admission will only be extended to the successful candidates. Following the closing date, unsuccessful candidates will receive notifications. The applicant’s final school year NSC or equivalent results will determine their final admission.

How to Apply to a university in South Africa

Applying to a South African University: A Quick Guide

Step 1: Find your dream program.

Step 2: Check application deadlines.

Step 3: Gather your application documents.

Step 4: Apply online or by mail.

Step 5: Follow up and check your status.

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