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UCT 2026 Application Guide: How to Apply

If you’re considering applying for a diploma, higher certificate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral program at the University of Cape Town, this guide contains all the crucial details to help you navigate the application process successfully. Applications for the 2026 academic year will open on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, so it’s best to begin your preparations early.

Study at UCT: Apply for 2026

The University of Cape Town is a community of highly talented students, educators, researchers, and a diverse range of professional and administrative staff, all dedicated to making a positive impact on the world. The university is located in the tranquil surroundings of Cape Town, offering an ideal environment for academic success.

UCT Application Dates for 2026

All first-year 2026 applications to study at the University of Cape Town must be submitted through the online system at www.cut.ac.za, starting from April 1, 2025.

Prospective students must complete their applications by July 31, 2025. To secure your place, ensure your application is submitted within the designated period.

Ensure you submit your application on time to maximize your chances of admission. The University of Cape Town has a competitive selection process, giving priority to top applicants and those who apply early. Late applications are not considered due to limited space.

List of Courses offered at UCT for the 2026 academic intake year

Below are the faculties and their respective courses offered at the University of Cape Town.

The Faculty of Commerce provides the following undergraduate programs:

Advanced Diploma in Actuarial Science
Bachelor of Business Science (BBusSc)
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)

The Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment offers the following undergraduate degrees:

Bachelor of Architectural Studies
Bachelor of Science in Property Studies
Bachelor of Science in Construction Studies
Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Chemical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Civil Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Electrical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Electrical & Computer Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Mechanical & Mechatronics Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Mechatronics
Bachelor of Science in Geomatics: Surveying
Bachelor of Science in Geomatics: Geoinformatics

The Faculty of Health Sciences offers the following undergraduate degrees and diplomas:

Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery
Bachelor of Science in Audiology
Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy
Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy
Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
Higher Certificate in Disability Practice
Advanced Diploma in Cosmetic Formulation Science

The Faculty of Humanities offers the following undergraduate degrees and diplomas:

Bachelor of Music
Teacher’s Licentiate Diploma in Music
Advanced Certificate in Education: Life Orientation
Bachelor of Arts in Film & Media Production
Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art
Bachelor of Arts in Theatre & Performance
Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Music in Dance
Bachelor of Music: Composition
Bachelor of Music: Education
Bachelor of Music: Musicology
Bachelor of Social Science in Philosophy, Politics & Economics
Bachelor of Social Science
Bachelor of Social Work
Dance Teacher’s Diploma
Diploma in Education

The Faculty of Law offers the following undergraduate degree:

Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

The Faculty of Science offers the following undergraduate degree:

Bachelor of Science

UCT Admission Requirements For 2026 Intake

Each faculty at the University of Cape Town has specific entry requirements. To be considered for selection into a degree , diploma and certificate programs, applicants must meet the following basic criteria:

Undergraduate Certificate: Eligibility must be confirmed with the Admissions Office or faculty.
Undergraduate Diploma: A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a rating of 3 (40-49%) in 4 recognized NSC 20-credit subjects.
Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must pass at least 4 subjects with a rating of 4 (50-59%) in any 20-credit NSC subjects, or have a matriculation endorsement for Senior Certificate holders. Non-South African certificates require a matriculation exemption.
Language Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency is required for all applicants.

N.B.: Download the 2026 UCT prospectus to explore all entry requirements. Click Here to download it

Documents Required for UCT 2026 Applications

All prospective students are required by the University of Cape Town to submit the following documents as part of the application process:

A certified copy of the examination results from Grade 11 up to September of Grade 12.
An official transcripts and academic records from your previous institutions.
Include a copy of your passport or South African ID document.
Proof of payment for the application fee

How to Apply at UCT 2026

Follow the guidelines and steps below to apply to the University of Cape Town for admission 2026

Use Mozilla Firefox or Chrome
Ensure you have stable internet
Step 1: Go to www.uct.ac.za to complete the application form
Step 2: Upload all supporting documents
Step 3: Pay the Administration Fee
- The UCT application and handling fees for the 2026 intake are as follows:
  - South African applicants: R100
  - International applicants: R300
Step 4: Check Application Status
You can check the progress of your UCT application by following the steps below
- Click on the ‘Check My Application’ icon on the HOMEPAGE
- Enter your ID number/Passport Number and the status of your application will be displayed on the screen.

UCT Accommodation Applications 2026

The University of Cape Town provides campus housing and residence facilities to new students upon successful course registration. Applications must be submitted online and not directly at the residences.

All first-year applicants seeking accommodation for the 2026 academic year must apply through the University of Cape Town at www.cut.ac.za. Make sure to indicate your accommodation preference in the appropriate section of the application form. Accommodation spaces will be allocated to applicants who apply via the CUT portal and have received a conditional or firm admission offer for the 2026 academic year.

UCT Student Financial Aid

The University of Cape Town (UCT) has allocated over R8 million in entrance scholarships for first-time students in 2026. These awards, ranging from R20,000 to R100,000, are available to South African citizens and permanent residents. No separate application is required for consideration. Additionally, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial support to academically deserving students at UCT