Universities Open and Taking 2028 Applications In South Africa

If you are searching for universities that are currently accepting applications for the 2028 academic year, this article provides a list of institutions that are open for applications. These universities attract thousands of applicants every year, making it important to check their application dates and submit your application before the relevant deadlines.

South Africa has 26 public universities, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications. Many of these institutions are recognised for their academic programmes, research, and quality of education. Available qualifications include higher certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, postgraduate diplomas, and honours degrees. Students who wish to continue their studies after completing an undergraduate qualification can also apply for master’s and doctoral programmes, depending on the university’s admission requirements.

2028 University Application Dates in South Africa: Undergraduate and Postgraduate Programmes

Students interested in bachelor’s degrees, higher certificates, diplomas, honours degrees, and postgraduate diplomas should apply between March and June 2027, depending on the university and their chosen programme. Since application opening dates vary across institutions and courses, it is important to check the specific dates for your preferred university and programme to avoid missing the application window.

Postgraduate Applications for 2028: Applications for master’s and doctoral degrees may open as early as April 1, 2027, with some universities accepting applications until March 31, 2028. However, these dates vary by institution and programme. Applicants should confirm the opening and closing dates for their chosen qualification and submit their applications before the relevant deadline.

Can Grade 11 and Grade 12 Students Apply to University for 2028?

Grade 12 Students:

Most South African universities allow Grade 12 students to apply using their final Grade 11 results while waiting for their Grade 12 final results. Admission decisions may be provisional until the university receives and assesses the applicant’s final Grade 12 results.

Grade 11 Students:

Some universities allow Grade 11 students to apply early using their mid-year or preliminary results. Applying early can give you a head start in the admission process and may help you receive a provisional offer. However, you must still meet the university’s final admission requirements in Grade 12 to secure your place.

2028 University Application Opening Dates in South Africa

Several major South African universities are expected to open applications for the 2028 academic year between March and April 2027. However, opening dates may vary by institution, qualification, and programme.

Universities expected to open in March 2027

Durban University of Technology (DUT)
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
University of Zululand (UNIZULU)
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)

Universities expected to open in April 2027

Stellenbosch University
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
Sol Plaatje University (SPU)
University of Johannesburg (UJ)
Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
University of Cape Town (UCT)
North-West University (NWU)
Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
Rhodes University
University of the Western Cape (UWC)
Vaal University of Technology (VUT)

University of the Free State

Universities expected to open in May 2027

University of Venda (UNIVEN)
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
Central University of Technology (CUT)
University of Mpumalanga (UMP)

Universities expected to open in June 2027

– University of Fort Hare (UFH)

For a full list of universities and their specific application opening and closing dates, click on this link to access a comprehensive guide.

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.

University Application Fees for 2028

Application fees differ across South African universities. Some institutions allow students to apply for free, while others charge fees that may reach approximately R700, depending on the university and application type. Most universities provide online payment methods, although certain institutions may also accept bank deposits or other approved payment options. Applicants using platforms such as the Central Applications Office (CAO) may pay a single application fee to apply to multiple participating institutions. Before submitting your application, visit the official website of your chosen university or application platform to confirm the applicable fee, payment methods, and any additional charges.

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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