South African Universities: Closing Dates 2025 and How to Apply

South Africa boasts a diverse array of universities, each offering a range of academic programs and opportunities. Applying to these institutions involves understanding their specific application procedures and meeting crucial deadlines. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help prospective students navigate the application process for some of South Africa’s leading universities.

2025 University Application Dates

UNIVERSITYOPENING DATECLOSING DATELINK TO APPLYAPPLICATION FEE
University of Cape Town (UCT)2 April 202431 July 2024Apply hereR100 (SADC applicants) / R300 (non-SADC applicants)
University of the Western Cape (UWC)2 April 202430 August 2024 (Dentistry Undergraduate programmes) / 30 September 2024 (Other programmes)Apply hereFREE
Stellenbosch University (SU)1 April 202431 July 2024Apply hereR 100
University of Johannesburg (UJ)1 April 20241 October 2024Apply hereFREE (Online application) / R200 (Manual application)
University of Pretoria (UP)2 April 202431 May 2024 (Faculty of Veterinary Science) / 30 June 2024 (All other faculties)Apply hereR 300
University of the Witwatersrand (WITS)1 March 202430 June 2024 (Faculty of Health Sciences, Bachelor of Architectural Studies, Bachelor of Audiology, Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology, BA Film and TV) / 30 September 2024 (All other programmes)Apply hereR100 (South African citizens) / R700 (foreign citizens)
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)TBC30 June 2024 (Medicine) / 30 September 2024 (All other Undergraduate Programmes)Apply hereR210 (On-time applications: SA applicants) / R420 (Late applications: SA applicants) / R490 (SADC and rest of Africa applicants)
Rhodes University (RU)1 May 202430 September 2024Apply hereR 100
University of South Africa (UNISA)1 September 20241 January 2025Apply hereR 135
North West University (NWU)2 April 202428 June 2024 / 30 August 2024Apply hereFREE
University of the Free State (UFS)1 April 202430 September 2024Apply hereFREE
Sol Plaatje University (SPU)1 April 202430 November 2024Apply hereFREE
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMU)1 April 202430 June 2024 (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB), Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) & Bachelor of Radiography (Brad)) / 2 August 2024 (early applications (excluding MBChB, BPharm & Brad)) / 30 September 2024 (late applications (excluding MBChB, BPharm & Brad))Apply hereFREE (for South African citizens) / R500 (for International Students)
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)13 May 2024July 2024 / September 2024Apply hereR 100
Durban University of Technology (DUT)1 April 202430 September 2024Apply hereR250 (South Africans citizens) / R300 (international applicants)
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)1 April 202431 May 2024 / 30 September 2024Apply hereR250 (South Africans citizens) / R300 (international applicants)
University of Venda (Univen)2 May 202426 September 2024Apply hereR 100
University of Zululand (Unizulu)TBCTBCApply hereR 100
Vaal University of Technology (VUT)1 May 20241 September 2024Apply hereR 100
Central University of Technology (CUT)27 March 202430 September 2024Apply hereFREE
Walter Sisulu University (WSU)2 April 202430 September 2024 (Health Sciences, International Applicants) / 31 October 2024 (SA applicants)Apply hereFREE
University of Limpopo (UL)TBCTBCApply hereR200 (South African applicants) / R750 (International Applicants)
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)1 March 202415 June 2024 / 30 September 2024Apply hereR 240
University of Fort Hare (UFH)1 March 202415 June 2024 / 30 September 2024Apply hereFREE (Online Application) / R120 (Manual Application for South African students) / R500 (Manual Application for International Students)
University of Mpumalanga (UMP)1 June 20241 November 2024Apply hereR150 (RSA/SADC Applicants) / R350 (other African Countries) / R500 (countries outside Africa)
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)2 April 202431 July 2024 (undergraduate programmes) / 30 August 2024 (postgraduate programmes)Apply hereR 300

Tips for a Successful Application

  1. Start Early: Give yourself plenty of time to gather documents and complete the application.
  2. Double-Check Requirements: Ensure you meet all the specific requirements of the program you’re applying for.
  3. Stay Organized: Keep track of deadlines and make sure all parts of your application are submitted on time.
  4. Seek Help if Needed: Don’t hesitate to contact the university’s admissions office if you have questions.

Applying to university is a significant step in your academic journey. By understanding the closing dates and following the application procedures carefully, you can maximize your chances of securing a spot at the South African university of your choice. Good luck!

SASSA Payment Dates for July 2024: Everything You Need to Know

For millions of South Africans, SASSA grants provide essential financial support. Knowing the exact payment dates is crucial for planning and budgeting. Here are the payment dates for July 2024 for the Older Persons Grant, Disability Grants, and Children’s Grants. SASSA July 2024 Payment Schedule 1. Older Persons Grant Payment Date: 2 July 2024 The … Read more

How to Check Your SASSA SRD Grant Status: A Comprehensive Guide

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant has been a lifeline for many South Africans, providing essential financial assistance during times of need. Once you’ve applied for the SRD Grant, it’s crucial to stay updated on the status of your application to ensure you receive your benefits promptly. This … Read more

Applying for the SASSA SRD Grant: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant, provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), is a critical lifeline for many South Africans facing financial hardships. Originally introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the SRD Grant has been extended to continue supporting those who are unemployed and without any other source of income. … Read more

SASSA: Everything you need to know

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) plays a vital role in the lives of millions of South Africans by providing essential social grants to those in need. Established in 2005, SASSA operates under the Department of Social Development, ensuring that the country’s most vulnerable citizens receive financial support. This blog post will cover everything … Read more

Western Cape Dept of Health Vacancies

If you’re seeking a rewarding career in healthcare administration, the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness has several exciting opportunities available. These positions offer competitive salaries and the chance to contribute to the well-being of the community. Below, we highlight three key positions currently open for applications. 1. Administration Clerk: Supply Chain Management (Assets) … Read more

DPSA Circular 20 of 2024: Latest Government Job Opportunities

The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) has released Circular 19 of 2024, which lists the latest job vacancies in various national and provincial government departments. This circular, posted on Friday, 7 2024, provides an excellent opportunity for job seekers looking to work in public service. Full Document Access To view the full document … Read more