Universities Accepting 2026 Late Applications in South Africa

Good news! Late applications for the January 2026 academic intake are now open at several universities across South Africa. If you missed the regular application deadline, this is your chance to secure a spot in your preferred programme.

In this article, we will highlight some of the top universities currently accepting late applications for 2026 and guide you on how to apply, so you can secure your place if you’re determined to start studying this year.

Who Qualifies for Late Applications?

Prospective students who missed the first application window and wish to study in 2026, and who hold an NSC certificate or equivalent, are encouraged to complete an online application as soon as possible. This includes:

Recent school leavers
Current Grade 12 learners
Mature students
Transfer students
International students

Admission Minimum Requirements

While requirements vary by programme, most universities require:

A National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent
Meeting the specific subject requirements for your chosen programme
Achieving the minimum pass marks or admission points for your course
For certain programmes, additional documents may be required (e.g., portfolios for design courses or work experience for professional studies)

Note: Meeting these criteria does not guarantee automatic admission but significantly improves your chances of being accepted.

Apply Before the Deadline!

Most universities close late applications on 31 January 2026. All applications must be submitted online through the official university portals, as walk-in submissions are not accepted. Don’t miss this opportunity!

Below are some selected universities currently open for 2026 late applications:

Cape Peninsula University of Technology: Applications open until 31 January 2026
University of Johannesburg: 14 – 23 January 2026
Sol Plaatje University: Applications extended to 15 January 2026
Tshwane University of Technology: 14 – 31 January 2026

Check Course Availability

Before applying, make sure your chosen programme is still open for late applications. If it’s full, consider a related course to keep your academic journey on track.

What You Need to Apply

To apply online, you’ll need:

A computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet access
Certified copies of your ID or passport
Grade 12 / NSC certificate or latest results
School transcripts (if still completing Grade 12)
A valid email and cellphone number
Any programme-specific documents
Application fee (payable online via VISA or MasterCard)

How to Apply Online

All late applications must be submitted online. Follow the steps below to complete your form as quickly as possible:

Go to the official university website
Select the 2026 Late Application link
Start a new application or resume an existing one
Fill in your personal details, academic history, and course selection
Upload supporting documents
Make the online payment
Click “Submit” to finalize your application

After Submission

Once your application is accepted:

Complete your registration
Enrol in your courses to start your academic activities on time
Explore scholarships and funding opportunities on the university website

Don’t wait—apply now and secure your spot in the 2026 academic year!

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