2028 University Applications in South Africa: Dates, Fees & Requirements

2028 University Applications in South Africa: Dates, Fees & Requirements

2028 University Applications in South Africa: Dates, Fees & Requirements

A new university application season is approaching, and prospective students are already preparing to secure admission for the 2028 academic year. With universities across South Africa beginning to open their applications from 1 April 2027, it is important to start planning early and understand exactly what each institution requires.

If you are planning to apply to a South African university for the 2028 academic year, do not leave your application to the last minute. Application opening and closing dates vary from one university to another, and some institutions may have different deadlines for specific programmes.

But you do not have to navigate the process alone. We have you covered.

In this comprehensive guide, we will provide important information on South African university application dates for 2028, application fees, available courses, APS requirements, admission requirements, funding opportunities, and how to apply online or manually where applicable.

“No one goes to battle without preparation.”

The same principle applies to university applications. Having the right information early can help you avoid missed deadlines, incomplete applications, and unnecessary delays.

This guide is designed to help prospective students, matriculants, international applicants, and returning students understand the South African university application process and prepare their applications with confidence.

Throughout the article, we will cover:

  • 2028 university application opening and closing dates
  • Application fees and payment requirements
  • Courses and programmes available at each university
  • APS requirements and other admission requirements
  • Application procedures and required documents
  • Funding and financial aid opportunities
  • Important deadlines applicants should not miss
  • Step-by-step guidance on how to submit your application

Whether you already know which university you want to attend or are still comparing your options, this guide will help you stay informed and plan your application well ahead of the deadline.

When Do South African University Applications Open and Close for 2028?

Knowing the university application opening and closing dates is one of the most important steps when preparing to study in South Africa. Application deadlines differ from one university to another, and some institutions also set earlier closing dates for specific programmes such as Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science.

Below is a university-by-university guide to the 2028 South African university application period, including opening dates, closing dates and applicable application fees. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early rather than waiting until the final deadline.

University of Venda (UNIVEN)

  • Applications open: 1 May 2027
  • Applications close: 30 September 2027
  • Application fee: R100
  • Late applications: May be considered for selected programmes, subject to availability.

Vaal University of Technology (VUT)

  • Applications open: 1 April 2027
  • Applications close: 30 September 2027
  • Application fee: Free of charge

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)

  • Applications open: 1 April 2027
  • Applications close: Programme dependent
  • Application fee: R150

University of Mpumalanga (UMP)

  • Applications open: 1 May 2027
  • Applications close: 30 September 2027
  • Application fee:
    • South African citizens: R200

    • SADC country citizens: R400

    • International non-SADC applicants: R550

Central University of Technology (CUT)

  • Applications open: 1 May 2027
  • Applications close: 30 September 2027
  • Application fee: Free

University of Cape Town (UCT)

  • Applications open: 2 April 2027
  • Applications close: 31 July 2027
  • Application fee:
    • R100 – SADC applicants
    • R300 – International applicants

University of the Western Cape (UWC)

  • Applications open: 2 April 2027
  • Closing dates:
    • Dentistry – 30 August 2027
    • All other programmes – 30 September 2027
  • Application fee: Free

Stellenbosch University (SUN)

  • Applications open: 1 April 2027
  • Applications close: 31 July 2027
  • Application fee: R100

Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)

  • Applications open: 13 May 2027
  • Applications close: 30 September 2027
  • Application fee:
    • Online application – Free
    • Manual application – R200

University of Johannesburg (UJ)

  • Applications open: 1 April 2027
  • Applications close: 31 October 2027
  • Application fee:
    • Online application – Free
    • Manual application – R200

University of Pretoria (UP)

  • Applications open: 2 April 2027
  • Closing dates:
    • Veterinary Science – 31 May 2027
    • All other programmes – 30 June 2027
  • Application fee: R300

University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)

  • Applications open: 1 March 2027
  • Closing dates:
    • Selected programmes – 30 June 2027
    • Other programmes – 30 September 2027
  • Application fee:
    • R100 – Domestic applicants
    • R700 – International applicants

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

  • Applications open: 1 April 2027
  • Closing dates:
    • Medicine – 30 June 2027
    • Other programmes – 30 September 2027
  • Application fee:
    • R210 – On-time application
    • R420 – Late application
    • R490 – International applicants

Rhodes University

  • Applications open: 1 April 2027
  • Applications close: 30 September 2027
  • Application fee: R100

Nelson Mandela University (NMU)

  • Applications open: 1 April 2027
  • Closing date: Programme dependent
  • Application fee:
    • South African applicants – Free
    • International applicants – R500

Walter Sisulu University (WSU)

  • Applications open: 2 April 2027
  • Closing dates:
    • Health Sciences – 30 September 2027
    • Other programmes – 31 October 2027
  • Application fee: Free for all applicants

University of Fort Hare (UFH)

  • Applications open: 1 March 2027
  • Applications close: 30 September 2027
  • Application fee:
    • Online application – Free
    • Manual application:
      • R120 – South African applicants
      • R500 – International applicants

University of South Africa (UNISA)

  • Applications open: 1 September 2027
  • Applications close: 1 January 2028
  • Application fee: R135

North-West University (NWU)

  • Applications open: 2 April 2027
  • Closing dates: 28 June or 30 August 2027, depending on the programme
  • Application fee: Free

University of the Free State (UFS)

  • Applications open: 1 April 2027
  • Applications close: 30 September 2027
  • Application fee: Free

Durban University of Technology (DUT)

  • Applications open: 1 April 2027
  • Applications close: 30 September 2027
  • Application fee:
    • R250 – South African applicants
    • R300 – International applicants

University of Limpopo (UL)

  • Applications open: 1 April 2027
  • Applications close: 31 October 2027
  • Application fee:
    • R200 – South African applicants
    • R750 – International applicants

University of Zululand (UNIZULU)

  • Applications open: 1 March 2027
  • Applications close: 30 September 2027
  • Application fee: R250 CAO application fee for South African applicants
  • International applicants: R300 CAO application fee.

Sol Plaatje University (SPU)

  • Applications open: 1 April 2027
  • Applications close: 31 October 2027
  • Application fee: Free

Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)

  • Applications open: 1 April 2027
  • Applications close: 30 September, 2026
  • Application fee: R240

Important Note for Applicants

Application dates and fees can vary according to programme, applicant category and application method. Some universities also have earlier deadlines for highly competitive programmes.

Applicants should therefore check the official university website before submitting an application or making any payment. Meeting the general university deadline does not necessarily mean that a particular programme is still accepting applications.

If you are applying to more than one university, it is advisable to create a personal deadline list and submit your applications well before the closing dates. This gives you enough time to correct errors, upload missing documents and resolve any application or payment issues.

Minimum Entry Requirements

What You Need to Know About APS Score

  • Admission to most South African universities is based on the Admission Point Score (APS).
  • Applicants must meet the minimum APS requirement for their chosen programme to be considered.
  • To check your eligibility, download the 2027 university prospectus, which clearly explains APS calculations and cut-off scores.
  • Your top six Matric subjects serve as the foundation for calculating your Admission Points Score (APS)
  • Meeting the minimum APS does not guarantee admission, especially for competitive programmes.
  • APS requirements vary by course and faculty, so applicants should review programme-specific criteria carefully.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply to South African Universities for 2028

Applying to university can seem overwhelming, especially when different institutions have different requirements, deadlines and application procedures. However, preparing your documents early and following the correct steps can make the process much easier.

If you are planning to study at a South African university in the 2028 academic year, use the following step-by-step guide to complete your application correctly.

1. Check the Application Opening and Closing Dates

Start by confirming when your preferred university opens its application portal and when applications close.

Keep in mind that some programmes have earlier closing dates than the university’s general deadline. This is particularly common for competitive programmes such as Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science and some Health Sciences programmes.

2. Prepare and Scan Your Documents

Gather all the documents you may need before starting your application. Where required, make sure your documents are properly certified, scanned and saved in the format specified by the university.

Preparing these documents in advance can help you avoid delays when completing the online application.

3. Check the Admission Requirements

Before applying, confirm that you meet the admission requirements for your chosen programme. Download and carefully read the university’s latest prospectus or programme requirements. Pay particular attention to:

  • Minimum subject requirements
  • APS or points requirements
  • Required Grade 11 or Grade 12 subjects
  • Minimum marks for specific subjects
  • Additional selection requirements
  • Programme-specific requirements

NOTE: Meeting the minimum requirements does not always guarantee admission, as some programmes may have limited spaces and additional selection criteria.

4. Visit the Official University Website

Once you have confirmed your eligibility, visit the university’s official website and access its application portal.

Complete the application form carefully and ensure that your personal details, academic information and programme choices are entered correctly.

Avoid relying on unofficial websites or third parties when submitting your application.

5. Pay the Application Fee

If your university charges an application fee, make the payment using the payment method provided by the institution.

Some South African universities offer free online applications, while others charge a fee. International applicants may also have different fee requirements.

Keep your proof of payment for your records.

6. Upload the Required Documents

The exact documents vary between universities and programmes, but applicants may generally be asked to provide:

  • South African ID or passport
  • Grade 11 results or latest academic results
  • Matric/NSC results, if already completed
  • Academic transcripts, where applicable
  • Proof of residence, where required
  • Affidavit or declaration, where applicable
  • Proof of payment, if an application fee applies

TIP: Do not upload documents that the university has not requested unless its application instructions specifically require them.

7. Submit Your Application

After completing the form and uploading all required documents, carefully review your application before submitting it.

Check your:

  • Personal information
  • Contact details
  • Programme selection
  • Academic results
  • Uploaded documents

Once everything is correct, submit your application before the applicable deadline. Where available, save or download your application confirmation or reference number.

8. Check Your Email and SMS Regularly

Universities may communicate with applicants through email, SMS or their online application portal. Check your inbox, including your spam or junk folder, regularly after submitting your application.

9. Monitor Your Application Status

Submitting an application does not mean that you have been admitted. Use the university’s application-status portal to monitor your application. Your status may change as the university processes your application and makes an admission decision.

10. Accept Your Offer

If you receive an admission offer, carefully read the instructions provided by the university and accept the offer within the stated period. Some universities may issue conditional offers based on current results, while final admission may depend on your final Matric results.

Requirements for International Applicants

International students may have additional requirements when applying to South African universities.

Depending on the university and programme, international applicants may need to provide documents such as:

  • Valid passport
  • Foreign academic qualifications
  • Proof of English proficiency, where applicable
  • SAQA evaluation or verification of foreign qualifications, where required
  • Proof of sufficient funds, where applicable
  • Medical or radiological reports, where required
  • Relevant immigration documents

CLUE: International applicants who are admitted to a South African university will generally need to obtain the appropriate study visa before beginning their studies. Always check the university’s requirements and the relevant South African immigration requirements before making travel arrangements.

2028 South African University Application Timeline

Planning your application around the university calendar can help you avoid missed deadlines. While exact dates differ between institutions and programmes, the following provides a general guide for students applying for the 2028 academic year.

April – May 2027

Many South African universities are expected to begin opening their application portals during this period.

This is a good time to:

  • Research universities and programmes
  • Check admission requirements
  • Download prospectuses
  • Prepare your documents
  • Create accounts on application portals
  • Submit applications as soon as your preferred institutions open

June – July 2027

Some universities and programmes may have early application deadlines during this period.

Students applying for competitive programmes, particularly in areas such as Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science and Health Sciences, should pay close attention to programme-specific deadlines.

August – September 2027

A significant number of university application deadlines may fall during this period.

Do not assume that every university remains open until the end of September. Always check the deadline for your specific programme.

October 2027 and Beyond

Some universities may continue accepting applications into October, while others may already have closed their application portals.

Institutions such as UNISA may operate on different application schedules, so applicants should check the relevant institution’s official dates.

Do South African Universities Accept Late Applications?

Some universities may consider late applications where programmes still have available spaces. However, late applications are not guaranteed and may be subject to additional fees or programme restrictions. Applicants should therefore not wait for a late-application period before submitting their applications. If your preferred programme is highly competitive, applying early is particularly important because spaces may be limited.

Which Courses Usually Do Not Accept Late Applications?

Late applications are often restricted for programmes with limited spaces, high demand or additional selection processes.

Examples may include:

  • MBChB – Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery
  • BDS – Bachelor of Dental Surgery
  • BVSc – Bachelor of Veterinary Science
  • Selected Health Sciences programmes
  • Performing Arts programmes requiring auditions
  • Programmes requiring portfolios or additional selection assessments

However, policies differ between universities. A programme that does not accept late applications at one institution may have a different policy at another. Always confirm the late-application policy directly with the university.

Funding Options for University Students in South Africa

The cost of university can be a major consideration for prospective students. Fortunately, students may have access to different forms of financial assistance.

Bursaries and Scholarships

Universities, government departments, companies, foundations and other organisations offer bursaries and scholarships to eligible students.

These may be based on factors such as:

  • Academic performance
  • Financial need
  • Field of study
  • Leadership or extracurricular achievements
  • Specific demographic or geographic criteria

Students should check their university’s funding, bursaries or financial-aid section and apply before the relevant funding deadline.

Student Loans

Students who do not qualify for bursaries or government funding may consider student loans.

Financial institutions such as Absa, FNB, Nedbank, Standard Bank and Capitec offer various financing products, subject to their individual eligibility requirements and terms.

Applicants should carefully review interest rates, repayment terms and other conditions before taking out a student loan.

NSFAS

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial assistance to eligible South African students who meet its requirements. NSFAS support can cover specified study-related costs for qualifying students at approved public universities and TVET colleges.

Important: NSFAS eligibility rules, household-income thresholds and funding conditions can change. Students should check the latest official NSFAS requirements for the relevant academic year rather than relying on older figures.

Do not wait until the final day. Prepare early, apply carefully and keep track of every application you submit.

This article was first written by https://richadmissions.com/