Getting a university degree is important in building a successful career. While it might not be a guarantee of success in your chosen field of study, it offers you a pretty good start. It is important for secondary school graduates to be aware of university admission and application dates because it should be the next step academically for those who have completed their secondary school education – even though so many factors may hinder one from taking this next step.
For those who are in pursuit of tertiary education, you will need updates on higher institutions and their application dates, as well as the relevant requirements for entry into your chosen university. These are some of the key factors that equip you to plan adequately and timely to avoid missing out on application dates into the institution of your choice or enable you to know if your choice university accepts late applications.
When Do University Applications Open For 2022?
Generally, most applications to South African Universities begin by the middle of the year with some opening as early as April. However closing dates end at the later part of the year between August and November. There are however some exceptions as universities are different and pattern their opening and closing dates by their individual internal policies.
To help you out with this information, this piece will provide insights into the 2022 university applications, including opening and closing dates for university applications in 2022 as well as their requirements and application process.
Which SA Universities Are Open For Application In 2022?
The following is a list of South African universities where you can apply to study. Included in this article are their relevant application dates and requirements.
1. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
The Nelson Mandela University (NMU) is among South Africa’s most foremost centers of academic excellence. The university has evolved consistently throughout the years and now offers a wide range of experiences, teaching facilities, and courses to students across South Africa and beyond. By way of a holistic educational approach that integrates its vast reserves of technological programs, academic experts, and human management professionals, NMU has carved a niche and is constantly blazing a trail for many other universities and institutions of higher education to follow.
Relevant Application Dates
Application into the Nelson Mandela University for the 2022/2023 academic session opened on the 3rd of May 2021. Prospective students are advised to turn in their application and necessary documentation online before the closing date as there is no extension or grace period once the closing date elapses:
- Early applications close on the 5th of August
- Late applications close on the 30th of September
- International student applications close on the 30th of September
- Student housing applications close on the 30th of September
Relevant Application Requirements
The admission process is initiated on the school’s online admission platform for which a valid email and South African phone number are required. The application form should be properly filled with all supporting documents attached and submitted. When this is done, the application is checked and processed upon its receipt by the admission board and international applicants without proof of payment attached to their applications will have their entries unprocessed. The requirements include:
- Proof of payment of R500 application fee (International applicants only)
- An authentic copy of your ID card. This is compulsory for all South African applicants. For those still waiting on their ID cards, a copy of your birth certificate will suffice.
- An authentic copy of an ID card of surety or legal guardian or parent. This is necessary if the applicant is a dependent, still in school, or has recently left school with no permanent employment.
- An authentic copy of the applicant’s most recent results (Grade 11 final results, Grade 12 June results, or Grade 12 September result).
- Official declaration form signed by your parent/legal guardian/surety if you are a dependent or currently at school or studying at a tertiary institution or have recently left school and do/will not have permanent employment when applying or studying at the university
- Certificate of conduct and academic record from previous institutions attended (if applicable)
- Degree/Diploma certificate(s) (if applicable)
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of permanent residency for applicants in South Africa/Certified copy of passport (for international applicants)
- Proof of current home/residential address for those applying for housing on campus.
- Completed disability assessments form (if applicable)
- Postgraduate application form if the application is for postgraduate studies
Please note, places in some departments are limited, so timely submission of all supporting documents is your best shot. Visit the university’s official website for more details and to begin your registration process.
2. University of Fort Hare (UFH)
A key institution of tertiary education offering a pro-western tailored educational curriculum to students around the sub-Saharan region, the University of Fort Hare has played a large role in creating a black education on par with what is obtainable in the western world. Situated in Alice on South Africa’s eastern cape, the UFH, which is a public university is a sustainable, equitable, and vibrant tertiary learning institution that is committed to the excellence of its students in research, as well as academics.
Relevant Application Dates
The University of Fort Hare’s admission management board has released the university’s prospectus and application form for the 2021/2022 academic session on the school’s online platform. Early application into UFH is currently ongoing with the closing date for early application scheduled for the 29th of October. However, if you are unable to make the early application, there is a late application grace period that begins on the 1st of November and ends on the 30th of the same month.
Relevant Application Requirements
After meeting entry requirements and submitting your application form and all the necessary documentation, a non-refundable application fee of R120.00 is payable by all applicants (for online applications). This fee is valid only within the early application closing date which ends on the 29th of October. However, there is a grace period provided which runs from the 1st of November to the 30th. Applying within the late closing date attracts a non-refundable R250 as opposed to R120. To apply to the University of Fort Hare, you must have the following documents:
- Your completed application form
- A copy of your South African ID card (for South African nationals)
- A copy of your result for the last school year is also required
- If you have attended another institution of higher learning, a copy of your transcript is necessary
For international applicants:
- A valid study visa
- A South African medical aid cover
- An English proficiency certificate
Please visit the university’s official website for more details and to begin your registration process.
3. North-West University (NWU)
Ranked in the top 1000 universities in the world, and the second-largest university in South Africa (a feat bettered only by the University of South Africa), the North-West University which is otherwise known as the NWU, does not only offer its students a solid educational background but also a place for their talents to find expression in today’s world.
Its students are grateful beneficiaries of a flexible and well-structured educational program that harnesses their unique potentials while laying the foundation for the building of their careers. Equipped with about 8 faculties that cater to the educational needs of both distant and close proximity learners, the university is dedicated to research, innovation, community engagement, and academic excellence.
Relevant Application Dates
The application process for admission into the North-West university begins from the 15th of April 2021 and closes on the 31st of July for selection courses, 31st of August for music and graphic design, and 30th of September for non-selection courses.
Relevant Application Requirements
For a successful application to the NWU, candidates need an APS minimum score of 15, a minimum APS of 18 for a diploma, and an APS of 21 or more for a bachelor’s degree.
- Grade 12 results, Grade 11 results (final results only)
- A copy of your matric certificate – if you have already passed matric
- Applicants who are currently upgrading their grade 12 results, will only be considered after the improved results are presented to the NWU
- USAF issued exemption certificate if applicable.
- Completed undertaking
- Copy of your ID
- Copy of your academic record (if applicable)
- Additional documents for international prospective students: A copy of relevant results A copy of your passport
Please visit the university’s official website for more details and to begin your registration process.
4. University of the Free State (UFS)
The University of the Free State (UFS) is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in South Africa. The changes taking place at the university continue to capture the imagination of people everywhere, including the international media.
Relevant Application Dates
The application process for Free State University opened on the 1st of April 2021. There are different closing dates depending on the course you intend to study but generally, the first indicated closing date is for the MBChB program which is on the 31st of May and the final closing date is on the 30th of September which is for non-selection programs.
Relevant Application Requirements
- The University of Free State will require the following documents from you. they include:
- Your ID if you are a South African citizen
- Your passport if you are an international student
- Your parent’s ID or passport if you are younger than 18
- National Senior Certificate if you already matriculated
- Your final Grade 11 results with the school’s stamp
- Grade 12 June results with the school’s stamp as soon as it becomes available.
- Two passport photos of yourself.
- Proof of deposit of the non-refundable application fee (refer to the application form for the amount).
- Your academic record, only if you are a current student at another institution of higher learning, SAQA/USAf verification document from the examination board for South African universities.
Please visit the university’s official website for more details and to begin your registration process.
5. University of South Africa (UNISA)
The University of South Africa (UNISA) is the largest and longest-standing dedicated university in the world. It is also South Africa’s largest university and admits students from within and outside the country.
Relevant Application Dates
Online application for admission to the next academic session opens from the 11th of August and runs through till the 12th of November 2021.
Relevant Application Requirements
Application for admission into UNISA is not automatic. You have to qualify and meet the admission requirements. Admission is also based on available entrance slots. The selection process is the calculation of your own points score that takes into consideration your final Grade 12 marks and other important factors are considered.
Applicants wishing to begin a new program should upload all the needed supporting documents, which includes:
- A copy of your ID document (RSA students)
- ID/passport – for international students only
- A sworn translation of documents if they are not in English or Afrikaans
- A copy of your school qualifications Senior Certificate, National Senior Certificate A copy of your marriage certificate (if applicable) or divorce decree (if applicable)
- A copy of your official tertiary academic record(s) if necessary.
Please visit the university’s official website for more details and to begin your application process.
6. Rhodes University
With just over 8200 students, Rhodes is a small university, which enjoys the distinction of having a spot among the best undergraduate pass and graduation rates in South Africa, outstanding postgraduate success rates, and the best research output per academic staff member. This is a testimony to the quality of students that Rhodes attracts and of academic provision and the commitment of Rhodes staff to student development and success.
Relevant Application Dates
Rhodes University’s 2022 application portal is currently closed. The deadline for applications from all new students for admission to the university is September 30, 2021.
Relevant Application Requirements
The documents needed for successful application include:
- A completed application form
- A copy of your results for the latest school year
- A copy of your ID
- A copy of an academic transcript if you have attended another higher institution
Please visit the university’s official website for more details and to begin your registration process.
7. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a well-known university of international acclaim. With an identity of inclusion, a university that is transforming lives and diversifying professions by the day, UJ reflects the energy of the vibrant city of Jo’burg.
Relevant Application Dates
Applications open from April 1st and close on the 31st of October at 12 noon.
Relevant Application Requirements
In order to study for a degree, applicants are required to have achieved a South African National Senior Certificate with a degree endorsement. All international applicants with high school qualifications achieved outside of the Republic of South Africa require a certificate of exemption from the Matriculation Board of South Africa for admission into undergraduate studies. The following supporting documents must be submitted to the Matriculation Board:
- Correctly certified copies of the applicant’s educational qualifications certified by a South African High Commission
- A correctly certified copy of your passport or birth certificate certified by a South African High Commission
- Sworn English Translation of documents (Documents issued in any language other than English)
- Proof of payment for the Exemption fee of R562
- A non-refundable application fee of R200.00 for international students.
- Final School leaving results when applying with international credentials or currently in Grade 12 (Final Grade 11 results)
- Valid Passport or Identity Document or Birth Certificate Sworn English Translation of documents (Documents issued in any language other than English)
- Proof of the English Proficiency where English was not used as a medium of learning and teaching.
Please visit the university’s official website for more details and to begin your registration process.
8. University of Pretoria
The University of Pretoria (UP) is one of Africa’s top universities and the largest contact university in South Africa. They have produced a number of socially impactful research geared towards addressing pervasive and primary world concerns in health, economy, policy-making, etc. The institution has transitioned to a fully online application process; hence, prospectus students should take keen note of that.
Relevant Application Dates
While the application for admission to undergraduate study programs for both South African and international citizens open on May 1, the closing dates vary depending on what course you intend to apply for. Generally, the final date for application for students within South Africa is on the 31st of August while the 30th of September is the final application date for international applications.
Relevant Application Documents
Each prospective student must complete only one online application. On the online application form, the University of Pretoria offers a first and second choice in terms of what you wish to study. All applicants should fill in both a first and second choice on the online application. Once your online application has been processed, you will receive a student number (EMPLID). Receiving a student number (EMPLID) does NOT imply that you have been accepted by the University of Pretoria yet.
- A copy of your ID document (RSA students)
- ID/passport, for international students only
- A sworn translation of documents if they are not in English or Afrikaans
- A copy of your school qualifications Senior Certificate, National Senior Certificate A copy of your marriage certificate (if applicable) or divorce decree (if applicable)
- A copy of your official tertiary academic record(s) (if necessary).
Please visit the university’s official website for more details and to begin your registration process.
9. University of Witwatersrand (Wits)
Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, the University of Witwatersrand (Wits) offers over 3,600 undergraduate and postgraduate courses in English within its 5 faculties. Wits’ commitment to social justice has played a key role during historical moments in South Africa, with many Witwatersrand alumni becoming icons, both in the past and present.
Relevant Application Dates
University of Witwatersrand applications for students are open from 1st April 2021 and close as early as the 30th of June for some courses and the 30th of September for others. Check out the university’s portal to see the different courses and their requirements and closing dates.
Relevant Application Requirements
There is a non-refundable application fee of R100 and R700 for South African citizens and foreign citizens respectively – and payments are to be made before closing dates – after which you will receive an email from the university acknowledging receipt of your application. The acknowledgment letter will contain a personal number (which will become your student number), and a reference person for you to contact for any queries you may have.
- Log in with your personal number and the first six digits of your ID
- Current Matriculants: Upload your final Grade 11 results (no hardcopy required). Your final Grade 11 report should be signed and stamped by your school principal (a hard copy is not required) while applicants with international qualifications should upload a certified copy of a recent school report, as well as all previous results. If you have already matriculated (even if you are rewriting some subjects in 2021) but have not attended any university, attach a certified copy of your matric certificate/foreign school-leaving certificate/s.
- Inform the University of the subjects you are rewriting.
- If you have already attended a university/tertiary institution other than Wits, submit your school leaving results and a certified copy of your academic record and certificate of good conduct Ask that institution to send your full academic record and a certificate of good conduct to the Student Enrolment Centre (SEnC) directly.
- Send a copy of your published results for the current year which should be stamped by the institution’s Registrar and signed by the Faculty Officer.
- A statement of credits/credit certificate/examination results is NOT acceptable.
- If you attended a foreign university and wish to apply for exemptions for certain courses, you must submit, in English, the syllabuses/course outlines, certified by that university.
Please visit the university’s official website for more details and to begin your registration process.
10. University of Cape Town (UCT)
UCT is the highest-ranked university in Africa. It is an inclusive and research-intensive African university that inspires creativity through outstanding achievements in learning, discovery, and citizenship; enhancing the lives of its students and staff, advancing a more equitable and sustainable social order, and influencing the global higher education landscape.
Relevant Application Dates
University of Cape Town application for the 2022 academic year for all the undergraduate programs opens on 1 May 2021, and the process closes on 31 August 2021. Potential students are advised to take advantage of this period to apply online to increase their chances of securing a chance in the institution. However, on September 1, National Student Funding Assistance Scheme (NSFAS) funding application opens and runs through till the 30th of November. You must apply online.
Relevant Application Requirements
- You’ll need an email address to complete the application.
- South African applicants will need an ID number.
- International applicants will need their passport number.
- You will need to have registered for the NBTs before applying online.
- You will need to pay an application fee.
Please visit the university’s official website for more details and to begin your registration process.
11. University of Venda (UniVen)
Officially recognized by the Department of Higher Education and Training of South Africa, the University of Venda is known for its massive strides and efforts in research. African institutions have begun taking initiative as far as open access to research is concerned and the University of Venda (UNIVEN) is among the top 100 universities in the world in this regard. Candidates who are applying to the UWC should be aware of the relevant application dates and requirements below:
Relevant Application Dates
The University of Venda application window for the 2022 intake closes on the 30th of September.
Relevant Application Requirements
Students who wish to apply to the University of Venda must have obtained the Matriculation certificate of the Committee of University Principles (SAUVCA) Matriculation Board, a certificate of exemption granted by the board, or any other certificate that the Senate may approve. Students must have at least obtained an E Higher Grade or D Standard Grade in English as well as appropriate prior learning in the relevant field of study will also be recognized as a criterion for admission.
- Your ID or passport
- Your Grade 11 final results with the school’s stamp
- Your academic record only if you are a current student at another institution of higher learning
- Some form of proof that the prospective student complies with the necessary requirements for the degree for which s/he desire to register for or a statement of last school symbol achieved
- Academic record and certificate of good conduct (if you have already studied at a tertiary institution).
- Copy of study /residence permit / medical insurance /SAQA Evaluation Certificate (if you are an international applicant).
- Proof of payment of R100 non-refundable application fee
Please visit the application for more information or to begin your registration process.
12. University of Mpumalanga (UMP)
Established in 2013, the University of Mpumalanga (UMP) is one of the youngest universities in South Africa. Mpumalanga which loosely translates ‘the place where the sun rises’ is committed to providing Leadership in Knowledge Creation and Dissemination. Candidates who are applying to the University of Mpumalanga should be aware of the relevant application dates and requirements below:
Relevant Application Dates
University of Mpumalanga’s online and manual applications begin on the 1st of June 2021. The following are deadlines to keep in mind. Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching 30th September 2021, other undergraduate courses 30th November 2021, Masters’ programs 15th January 2022.
Relevant Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary depending on the course you’re applying for, the academic level, and your nationality. This is mainly because the university allows its faculties to set their entry requirements based on their own preferences and internal policies. However, these are the general requirements:
- Copy of your school qualifications (eg Senior Certificate, National Senior Certificate)
- Copy of your official tertiary academic record(s) (if applicable)
- Copy of your ID document (RSA students)
- ID / passport (international students)
- Copy of your marriage certificate (if applicable) or divorce decree (if applicable)
- Sworn translations of documents if they are not in English or Afrikaans
Please visit the application website for more information or to begin your registration process.
Other South African Universities – Their Application Dates And Requirements for 2022
University of Limpopo (UL)
Founded in 1959, the University of Limpopo (UL) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. Candidates who are applying to the UL should be aware of the relevant application dates and requirements below:
Relevant Application Dates
The institution is currently accepting applications for both graduate and undergraduate prospecting students. Take note of the following important deadlines. MBChB Programme – 28th September 2021 PGCE Programme – 31st October 2021 All other undergraduate courses – 30th October 2021.
Relevant Application Requirements
- A handling fee of R200 for South African applicants, and R750 for International Applicants
- Life Orientation with an achievement level of at least three (3)
- The required Admission Point Score (APS) as stipulated in the Calendars of each Faculty
- Meeting the minimum APS for a particular program does not, however, guarantee admission
Please visit the application website for more information or to begin your registration process.
University of the Western Cape (UWC)
Candidates who are applying to the UWC should be aware of the relevant application dates and requirements below:
Relevant Application Dates
The applications for 2022 open on 15 May 2021. The University of the Western Cape application forms is expected to be submitted before 30 September 2021.
Relevant Application Requirements
- There is no application fee required
- Applicants must have a valid email address in order to apply online
- There is support for people with disability
- Residence placement is limited and not all applicants can be accommodated
Please visit the application website for more information or to begin your registration process
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
Candidates who are applying to the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) should be aware of the relevant application dates and requirements below:
Relevant Application Dates
Those who wish to enroll to study UKZN’s undergraduate courses should take note of the following dates. The first semester 2022 Medicine applications close on the 30th June 2021 while all other programs close on the 30th of September 2021.
Relevant Application Requirements
- HESA/SAQA documents are to be uploaded in order to complete your application.
- Certified copy of your ID/passport.
- Certified copy of your National Senior/Matric Certificate or O/A Levels or relevant school leaving qualification/certificate.
- Proof from Universities South Africa (previously known as HESA), that you qualify for admission to degree studies at South African universities.
- Certified copies of your degree certificate(s), academic record, and certificate of conduct, if you attended other universities.
- Proof of English proficiency for international applicants from non-English speaking countries.
- A valid study visa to study in South Africa if you are an international applicant
Please visit the application website for more information or to begin your registration process.
University of Zululand (UniZulu)
Candidates who are applying to the University of Zululand (UniZulu) should be aware of the relevant application dates and requirements below:
Relevant Application Dates
Deadlines for returning students 31st October 2021, Post Graduate Certificate in Education: 30th September 2021.
Relevant Application Requirements
- Identity Document
- diploma or degree certificate (if available)
- An academic record
- Matric results/certificate
- Valid passport and study permit
Please visit the application website for more information or to begin your registration process.
Stellenbosch University (SU)
Candidates who are applying to the Stellenbosch University (SU) should be aware of the relevant application dates and requirements below:
Relevant Application Dates
Application opening dates vary but generally begin from the 6th April 2021 and end on the 31st of August 2021.
Relevant Application Requirements
- A National Senior Certificate (NSC)
- Writing of the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) required by your chosen program
- When you apply for a program in the Faculty of Law, the NBTs need to be written by 16 July if you want to be considered for selection.
- Further specific requirements to be found at www.maties.com.
Sefako Makgatho University
Candidates who are applying to the Sefako Makgatho University should be aware of the relevant application dates and requirements below:
Relevant Application Dates
The SMU application process for 2022 is officially opened on 1 April 2021 and closes on the 26th of July.
Relevant Application Requirements
- Certified copy of your ID/passport document (compulsory).
- Certified Grade 11 end-of-year examination results or your National Senior/Matric/IEB Certificate (if you have already completed Grade 12).
- Certified copies of your degree certificate(s) and academic record(s) (if you attended other universities).
- Certified copy of your marriage certificate (if applicable).
- Proof of non-refundable application fee payment of R200
Please visit the application website for more information or to begin your registration process.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
Candidates who are applying to the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) should be aware of the relevant application dates and requirements below:
Relevant Application Dates
The final deadline for application to this institution is the 30th of September.
Relevant Application Requirements
Step 1: Choose a qualification
Step 2: Gather your documentation or upload further/outstanding documentation
Step 4: Online application
To begin your registration and for a detailed list of application requirements visit the site.
Durban University of Technology (DUT)
Candidates who are applying to the Durban University of Technology (DUT) should be aware of the relevant application dates and requirements below:
Relevant Application Dates
The final deadline for application to this institution is the 30th of September 2021.
Relevant Application Requirements
For admission to entry-level degree studies:
- Copy of your school qualifications (eg Senior Certificate)
- Copy of your official tertiary academic record(s) (if applicable) (internet copies will not be accepted)
- Copy of your ID document (RSA students) or ID / passport (international students)
- Copy of your marriage certificate (if applicable) or divorce decree (if applicable)
- Sworn translations of documents if they are not in English or Afrikaans
To begin your registration and for a detailed list of application requirements visit the website.
Tshwane University (TUT)
Candidates who are applying to the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) should be aware of the relevant application dates and requirements below:
Relevant Application Dates
The final deadline for application to this institution is the 30th of September 2021.
Relevant Application Requirements
- Provide your South African ID number
- International students must have their Passport number
- You must have an active cell phone number and a valid email address
Note that all prospective applicants are advised to visit the University’s website and carefully read all the necessary information and guidelines for prospective applicants before applying.
Central University of Technology (CUT)
Candidates who are applying to the Central University of Technology (CUT) should be aware of the relevant application dates and requirements below:
Relevant Application Dates
The final deadline for application to this institution is the 31st of October.
Relevant Application Requirements
- Certified copy of your ID/passport document.
- Certified Grade 11 end-of-year examination results or your National Senior/Matric/IEB Certificate.
- Certified copies of your degree certificate if you attended other universities.
- Certified copies of your academic record(s) if you attended other universities.
To begin your registration and for a detailed list of application requirements visit the site.
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
Candidates who are applying to the Mangosuthu University should be aware of the relevant application dates and requirements below:
Relevant Application Dates
The final deadline for application to this institution is the 30th of September 2021. Applications later than this date attract a late application fee.
Relevant Application Requirements
- Your completed application form
- A copy of your South African ID card (for South African nationals)
- A copy of your result for the last school year is also required
- If you have attended another institution of higher learning, a copy of your transcript is necessary.
To begin your registration and for a detailed list of application requirements visit the site.
Sol Plaatje University (SPU)
Candidates who are applying to the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) should be aware of the relevant application dates and requirements below:
Relevant Application Dates
The application opens on 31 July and ends 30th September 2021.
Relevant Application Requirements
To begin your registration and for a detailed list of application requirements visit the website.
Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
Candidates who are applying to the Walter Sisulu University (WSU) should be aware of the relevant application dates and requirements below:
Relevant Application Dates
The final deadline for application to this institution is the 31st of November 2021.
Relevant Application Requirements
To begin your registration and for a detailed list of application requirements visit the school website.
Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
Candidates who are applying to the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) should be aware of the relevant application dates and requirements below:
Relevant Application Dates
The final deadline for application to this institution is the 31st of October 2021.
Relevant Application Requirements
To begin your registration and for a detailed list of application requirements visit the website.
