As students begin to plan for the 2026 academic year, understanding the 2026 University Application deadlines is crucial. South Africa boasts numerous prestigious universities, each with specific application dates that applicants must adhere to.
Below is a detailed guide on the 2026 University Application deadlines for various South African universities, helping prospective students stay on track and submit their applications on time.
Documents to Prepare for Your 2026 University Application
When preparing to submit your 2026 University Application, it’s important to gather all the necessary documents well in advance to avoid last-minute delays.
Here is a list of essential documents that most South African universities will require during the application process:
ID or Passport: A certified copy of your South African ID or valid passport is typically required for identity verification.
Matric Certificate or Results: If you’ve already completed your matric, include your matric certificate. If not, you’ll need to submit your latest matric results or a provisional certificate, depending on your university’s requirements.
Proof of Address: Some universities may require proof of your home address, such as a utility bill, bank statement, or a signed affidavit from a parent/guardian.
Academic Transcripts: For students who have completed any previous tertiary studies, a copy of your academic transcript or certificate from that institution may be required.
Proof of Payment: Some universities charge a non-refundable application fee, and proof of payment must be submitted as part of your application.
Passport-Sized Photos: Depending on the university, you may need to submit a few passport-sized photographs as part of your application packet.
Letters of Recommendation: Certain programs, especially postgraduate courses, may require one or more letters of recommendation from previous professors, employers, or other professional contacts.
Personal Statement or Motivation Letter: Many universities request a personal statement or motivation letter where you explain why you’re interested in the course and why you should be accepted.
Additional Requirements for Specific Programs: Some universities or programs, particularly those in fields like medicine or law, may have additional application requirements such as portfolios, interviews, or specific aptitude tests.
Be sure to check the specific application requirements for your university of choice, as some may have additional or unique documentation needs. Preparing these documents ahead of time will ensure that you meet all the necessary criteria for your 2026 University Application.
Key Dates for 2026 University Applications
1. Mangosuthu University of Technology
- 2026 University Application Period: Now open until 30 September
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), located in Umlazi, is a key institution for students pursuing degrees in engineering, health sciences, and management. The 2026 University Application for MUT is already open and will close by the end of September. Make sure to submit your application on time!
2. University of the Free State (UFS)
- 2026 University Application Period: 1 April until 30 September
- The University of the Free State offers diverse academic programs, and the 2026 University Application for UFS opens on 1 April and closes on 30 September. Be sure to submit your documents by September to ensure consideration for your preferred course.
3. University of Fort Hare
- 2026 University Application Period: 1 June until 31 October
- One of the oldest universities in South Africa, the University of Fort Hare is known for its academic excellence. The 2026 University Application period runs from June to October, giving prospective students ample time to apply for the 2026 intake.
4. University of Cape Town (UCT)
- 2026 University Application Period: 1 April until 31 July
- As one of South Africa’s top universities, UCT attracts thousands of applicants each year. The 2026 University Application period for UCT is between April and July, so you’ll need to prepare your application well in advance to meet this important deadline.
5. Rhodes University
- 2026 University Application Period: April 2025
- Rhodes University, located in Grahamstown, is known for producing exceptional graduates in humanities, law, and social sciences. For the 2026 University Application, Rhodes will open applications in April 2025. If you are looking to study there, start planning well in advance!
6. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- 2026 University Application Period: 1 April until 31 October
- The University of Johannesburg is one of the largest and most diverse universities in the country, offering a range of courses across various fields. The 2026 University Application period for UJ runs from April to October. Make sure to apply before the end of October.
7. University of Zululand
- 2026 University Application Period: Now open until 31 October
- The University of Zululand is known for its strong focus on rural development and community engagement. The University Application is open now, and the deadline is set for the end of October. Ensure your application is submitted on time.
8. Central University of Technology
- 2026 University Application Period: 13 May until 30 September
- The Central University of Technology in Bloemfontein offers many technical programs, including engineering and business. The 2026 Application for the university opens on 13 May and closes on 30 September, so be sure to submit your application within this period.
9. Walter Sisulu University
- 2026 Application Period: 1 April until 31 October
- Walter Sisulu University is another prominent institution in the Eastern Cape, with a focus on education, health sciences, and engineering. The 2026 University Application period is open from April through to October, giving students plenty of time to apply.
10. University of Limpopo
- 2026 University Application Period: 1 April until 30 July/29 September
- Known for its diverse student body and its role in promoting rural development, the University of Limpopo offers various programs in the fields of science, health, and education. The 2026 University Application period spans from April until late September, so make sure to submit your application well before the final deadline.
11. Durban University of Technology
- 2026 University Application Period: Now open until 30 September
- The Durban University of Technology (DUT) is a leading institution for students interested in engineering, technology, and business. The 2026 University Application is currently open, with the closing date set for 30 September.
12. Sefako Makgatho University
- 2026 University Application Period: 1 April until 31 July
- Located in Ga-Rankuwa, Sefako Makgatho University offers programs in health sciences, education, and more. The 2026 University Application period runs from April until the end of July.
13. Tshwane University of Technology
- 2026 University Application Period: 1 April until 30 September
- Tshwane University of Technology is a large institution in Pretoria, offering a wide range of academic programs. For the 2026 University Application, applications are open from April to September. Be sure to apply before the September deadline.
14. University of the Western Cape
- 2026 University Application Period: 2 April until 30 September
- The University of the Western Cape (UWC) offers world-class programs and a vibrant campus life. The 2026 University Application window runs from April to September, so be sure to plan ahead.
15. Stellenbosch University
- 2026 University Application Period: 1 April until 31 July
- Stellenbosch University is one of South Africa’s most prestigious universities. The 2026 University Application period runs from April to July, and applicants should make sure to apply before the closing date.
16. University of Pretoria
- 2026 Application Period: 1 April
- The University of Pretoria offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The 2026 Applications for Pretoria opens in April, so students need to be prepared to submit their application by then.
17. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- 2026 Application Period: Now open until 30 June/30 September
- The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), located in Johannesburg, is a prestigious institution offering a wide variety of courses. The 2026 Application is currently open, with deadlines set for June or September depending on the program.
18. University of KwaZulu-Natal
- 2026 Applications Period: Now open until 30 September
- The University of KwaZulu-Natal offers a diverse range of programs, and its 2026 University Application period is open now, closing on 30 September.
19. North West University
- 2026 Application Period: 1 April
- North West University offers excellent programs in humanities, sciences, and business. The 2026 University Application opens on 1 April, so students should be ready to apply early.
20. Nelson Mandela University
- 2026 Application Period: 1 April until 30 June/1 August/30 September
- Nelson Mandela University has multiple deadlines for different programs. The 2026 University Application period for Nelson Mandela University runs from April to September, with varying deadlines depending on the program.
Related: How to Transition from a TVET College to a University in South Africa
The 2026 Application deadlines for South African universities are quickly approaching. Each university has its own unique application timeline, and some universities already have their application windows open. To ensure your place at a South African university, it’s essential to keep track of the deadlines and submit your application on time.
