Applications for 2027 Are Open for These Universities in South Africa

Applications for 2027 Are Open for These Universities in South Africa

Applications for the 2027 academic year at South African universities are officially opening, giving prospective students enough time to prepare and apply before deadlines close. Each university has its own application period, admission requirements, and fees, making early planning essential for students who want to secure a place.

Below is a complete guide to 2027 university applications in South Africa, including application dates, admission requirements, eligibility criteria, documents, application steps, funding options, and accommodation advice.

2027 University Applications in South Africa: Opening and Closing Dates for All Major Universities

University of Cape Town (UCT)

UCT will open applications on 2 April 2026 and close on 31 July 2026. SADC applicants pay R100, while international applicants pay R300. Due to the high competition for places, early application is strongly recommended.

University of the Western Cape (UWC)

UWC opens applications on 2 April 2026. Dentistry programmes close on 30 August 2026, and all other programmes close on 30 September 2026. There is no application fee, making UWC an accessible choice for many students.

Stellenbosch University

Applications for Stellenbosch University open on 1 April 2026 and close on 31 July 2026. The application fee is R100, and early submissions are advised due to limited spaces.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)

CPUT opens applications on 13 May 2026 and closes on 30 September 2026. Online applications are free, while manual applications cost R200.

University of Johannesburg (UJ)

UJ applications open on 1 April 2026 and close on 31 October 2026. Online applications are free, while manual applications cost R200.

University of Pretoria (UP)

UP will open applications on 2 April 2026. Veterinary Science closes on 31 May 2026, and all other programmes close on 30 June 2026. The application fee is R300.

University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)

Wits applications open on 1 March 2026. Some programmes close on 30 June 2026, while others remain open until 30 September 2026. Domestic applicants pay R100, and international applicants pay R700.

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

UKZN opens applications on 1 April 2026. Medicine closes on 30 June 2026, while other programmes close on 30 September 2026. Fees vary depending on applicant status.

Rhodes University

Rhodes University opens applications on 1 April 2026 and closes on 30 September 2026. The application fee for all applicants is R100.

Nelson Mandela University (NMU)

NMU opens applications on 1 April 2026, with programme-specific closing dates. South African applicants apply free of charge, while international applicants pay R500.

Walter Sisulu University (WSU)

WSU opens applications on 2 April 2026. Health Sciences close on 30 September 2026, and other programmes close on 31 October 2026. No application fee is charged.

University of Fort Hare (UFH)

UFH opens applications on 1 March 2026 and closes on 30 September 2026. Online applications are free, while manual applications require payment.

University of South Africa (UNISA)

UNISA opens applications on 1 September 2026 and closes on 1 January 2027. The application fee is R135.

North-West University (NWU)

NWU opens applications on 2 April 2026, with programme-specific closing dates in June or August. No application fee is required.

University of the Free State (UFS)

UFS opens applications on 1 April 2026 and closes on 30 September 2026. Applications are free of charge.

Durban University of Technology (DUT)

DUT opens applications on 1 April 2026 and closes on 30 September 2026. South African applicants pay R250, while international applicants pay R300.

University of Limpopo (UL)

UL opens applications on 1 April 2026 and closes on 31 October 2026. South African applicants pay R200, and international applicants pay R750.

General Admission Requirements for South African Universities (2027)

National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent qualification
Minimum subject requirements depending on the programme
Minimum APS score for the chosen qualification
Some programmes may require interviews, portfolios, or aptitude tests

Eligibility Criteria for 2027 University Applications

Must hold a recognised NSC or equivalent qualification
Meet programme-specific APS and subject requirements
Meet language proficiency requirements, usually English
International students must have SAQA evaluation and study permit
Some programmes may require additional assessments (interviews, auditions, tests)

Documents Required for 2027 University Applications

Certified copy of South African ID or passport
Latest school results (Grade 11 or 12)
Proof of application fee payment
Valid email and cellphone number
SAQA evaluation (for international students)
Study permit and passport (for international students)

Steps to Apply to South African Universities for 2027

Choose your university and programme
Complete the online application form on the university website
Upload all required supporting documents
Pay the application fee if applicable
Submit the application before the closing date
Monitor your email and online portal for updates

Funding Options for 2027 University Students

NSFAS – Covers tuition, accommodation, meals, and learning materials for eligible South African students
University bursaries and scholarships – Based on academics, financial need, leadership, or sports achievements
Government and private-sector bursaries – From companies, SETAs, and government departments
Merit-based scholarships – For top-performing students in specific programmes
External sponsorships – Employer or organisation-funded study opportunities

Student Accommodation for 2027 University Applicants

On-campus residences – Allocated based on availability, academics, or financial need
Accredited off-campus housing – Approved by universities for safety and quality
Private student accommodation – Located near campuses
Shared apartments or rentals – For students seeking independent living

Tip: Apply for accommodation early, as university acceptance does not guarantee a residence spot. NSFAS funding covers approved residences only.

Conclusion

Most South African university applications for 2027 open between March and April 2026, with closing dates ranging from June to October 2026. Students are advised to apply early, submit complete documents, meet admission and eligibility criteria, and explore funding and accommodation options to ensure a smooth start to the 2027 academic year.

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