SA Universities Application forms 2025/2026-SA Admissions
SA Universities Application forms 2025/2026-SA Admissions–Which universities are open for 2025
Great news for prospective students! South African universities are now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 academic year. You can apply electronically, by hand, or even via paper mail to any of the 26 public universities. Just note that the application window varies depending on the university and program, so be sure to check their deadlines carefully. The window generally opens on March 1st, 2024, and closes on March 15th, 2025. Don’t forget to submit all your required documents within the timeframe to secure your spot! Remember, this is for the 2025-2026 academic year, so applications for the current year (2024) are closed.
Thinking about studying in South Africa? Great choice! Many universities and colleges are waiting to welcome you. Most of the application process happens online, with some universities offering downloadable forms too. Here’s a quick guide to get you started on your application journey!
2025 South African University Application Deadlines Approaching
South African universities typically open applications in March of the year before you want to start studying, with deadlines falling in March of the following year. So, if you’re aiming for the January 2025 intake, applications for most universities will be open from March 2024 to March 2025. This page provides a handy overview of key application dates for different institutions to help you stay ahead of deadlines.
How to Apply to a University in South Africa For 2025
Online Application:
- Find your fit: Visit the website of your chosen university and browse through their degree programs.
- Download and complete: Locate the application form and fill it out accurately, providing all requested information.
- Support your application: Upload relevant documents like transcripts, certificates, and standardized test scores (if required).
- Submit and wait: Send your application electronically to the university or admissions department.
- Celebrate success: If accepted, you’ll receive an offer letter via email or courier.
International Applicants:
- Visa preparation: Once accepted, request a visa pack from the university to initiate your visa application process.
Documents that are required to apply to universities in South Africa
- Completed application forms
- Certified copies of your South African ID or your passport
- Certified copies of your parent’s or guardians’ ID/passport
- Other supporting documents may consist of your exam results, proof of residence, and a recent payslip
- Certified copies of your exam results from Grade 11 and your mid-year matric exam marks
- Some universities have an application fee – in this case, proof of payment
- If you are an international applicant, you’ll also need to apply for a visa
Always make sure that you have copies of these documents and never send the originals!
Read Also: Universities Open and Taking 2025 Applications
South African University Application Dates for 2025
This table summarizes the application opening dates for various South African universities for the 2025 academic year. Remember that these are just starting dates; many universities have final deadlines later in the year. Be sure to check the university’s website for specific details and any exceptions.
| University | Opening Date |
|---|---|
| Rhodes University, Tshwane University of Technology, Wits University | March 1, 2024 |
| University of Cape Town, University of the Free State, University of Pretoria, Nelson Mandela University, University of Johannesburg, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Durban Institute of Technology, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, University of KwaZulu Natal, Mangosuthu University of Technology, University of Zululand, North-West University, Stellenbosch University, Sol Plaatje University | April 1, 2024 |
| Walter Sisulu University, University of the Western Cape | May 1, 2024 |
| University of Fort Hare, Central University of Technology, Vaal University of Technology, University of Mpumalanga | June 1, 2024 |
| University of Venda | July 1, 2024 |
| University of South Africa (UNISA) | August/September 2024 (varies by program) |
South African Universities’ 2025 Late Application
- For admittance to various academic programs, universities typically have rigorous deadlines. They have adequate time to review all of the applications and select the top applicants. This is especially useful for highly sought-after programs that receive more applications than the university can handle.
- However, late applications are only accepted when certain undergraduate or graduate courses at any of the universities still have openings.
- This typically happens after the general application’s formal deadline. This application window is often brief.
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