2026 University Applications in South Africa: Open Dates, Closing Dates & Application Links

If you're planning to pursue higher education in South Africa in 2026, it's crucial to be aware of the application timelines for various universities. Below is a comprehensive guide to South African universities currently open for the 2026 intake, including their application opening and closing dates, along with direct application links.

📅 2026 Application Dates & Links

1. University of Pretoria (UP)

• Applications Open: 1 April 2025

• Closing Dates:

  • Veterinary Science: 31 May 2025

  • All other undergraduate programmes: 30 June 2025

• Apply Here: UP Online Application(University of Pretoria)

2. University of the Western Cape (UWC)

• Applications Open: 2 April 2025

• Closing Date: 30 September 2025

• Apply Here: UWC Admissions( UWC)

3. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

• Applications Open: March 2025

• Closing Dates:

  • Medicine: 30 June 2025

  • All other programmes: 30 September 2025

• Apply Here: UKZN Online Applications(UKZN Applications, UKZN Applications)

4. Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)

• Applications Open: 1 April 2025

• Closing Dates:

  • Undergraduate programmes: 31 July 2025

  • Postgraduate programmes (except PhDs and Masters by Research): 29 August 2025

• Apply Here: SMU Online Application(Sefako Makgatho University)

5. University of Johannesburg (UJ)

• Applications Open: 1 April 2025

• Closing Date: 30 September 2025

• Apply Here: UJ Applications(University of Johannesburg)

6. University of Cape Town (UCT)

• Applications Open: 1 April 2025

• Closing Date: 31 July 2025

• Apply Here: UCT Applications

7. University of the Free State (UFS)

• Applications Open: 1 April 2025

• Closing Date: 30 September 2025

• Apply Here: UFS Online Applications(apply.ufs.ac.za)

8. University of Limpopo (UL)

• Applications Open: 1 April 2025

• Closing Dates:

  • MBChB Applications: 30 July 2025

  • All other programmes: 29 September 2025

• Apply Here: UL Applications

9. University of Fort Hare (UFH)

• Applications Open: 1 June 2025

• Closing Date: 31 October 2025

• Apply Here: UFH Applications

10. University of Zululand (UNIZULU)

• Applications Open: March 2025

• Closing Date: 31 October 2025

• Apply Here: UNIZULU Applications

✅ Application Tips

• Apply Early: Some programmes, especially in health sciences and law, have earlier closing dates.

• Use Grade 11 Results: If you haven't completed your National Senior Certificate yet, you can apply using your Grade 11 exam results.

• Prepare Required Documents: Ensure you have your South African ID document and any other required documents ready for submission.

• Check Application Fees: Most universities have an application fee; verify the amount and payment details on the respective university websites.

With deadlines ranging from July to October 2025, now is the time to finalize applications. Prioritize gathering documents, paying fees (where applicable), and researching programme-specific requirements. For further details, visit university websites or contact admissions offices directly.

Financial Aid & Resources

• Need help? Explore NSFAS guidelines here or download prospectuses from university portals 14.

  Stay ahead of the curve—your future starts today! 🎓