Are you ready to apply to one of South Africa’s 26 public universities for 2026? Applying early gives you the best chance of securing a spot at your desired university and course.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on 2026 university application dates, including how to apply on time and ensure your application process runs smoothly.
2026 University Applications Opening Dates
If you’re searching for details about 2026 university application dates, here’s what we know so far:
- University of the Western Cape (UWC): 1 April – 30 September
- Stellenbosch University: 1 April – 31 July
- University of Pretoria (UP): 1 April
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits): Now Open
- 30 June: Teaching courses and Bachelor of Nursing applications close
- 30 September: All other programmes applications close
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN): Now Open – 30 September
- North West University (NWU): 1 April
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU): 1 April
- 30 June: MBChB, BPharm, & BRad applications close
- 1 August: Early applications (excluding MBChB, BPharm & BRad) close
- 30 September: Late applications (excluding MBChB, BPharm & BRad) close
- University of Zululand (Unizulu): Now Open – 31 October
- Central University of Technology (CUT): 13 May – 30 September
- Walter Sisulu University (WSU): 1 April – 31 October
- University of Limpopo (UL): 1 April
- 30 July: MBChB applications close
- 29 September: All other programmes applications close
- Durban University of Technology (DUT): Now Open – 30 September
- Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU): 1 April – 31 July
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT): 1 April – 30 September
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT): Now Open – 30 September
- University of the Free State (UFS): 1 April – 30 September
- University of Fort Hare (UFH): 1 June – 31 October
- University of Cape Town: 1 April until 31 July
- Rhodes University: April 2025
- University of Johannesburg: 1 April until 31 October
Universities That Are Currently Accepting Applications For 2026
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- University of Zululand (Unizulu)
- University of Kwazulu-Natal (UKZN)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
Keep in mind, some universities have not yet confirmed their 2026 application dates. Make sure to regularly check their official websites for updates.
Funding Through NSFAS Bursaries and Student Loans
If you’re applying to any of the 26 public universities, you might be eligible for funding from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) if you meet the requirements.
- Full Bursaries: Available to students from families earning less than R350,000 per year.
- Student Loans: Available to students from families earning between R350,000 and R600,000 per year.
NSFAS applications usually open during the final quarter of the year. Be sure to submit your application on time to secure your funding for the 2026 academic year.
