Guide: Universities Open for 2025 Applications in South Africa

Introduction

As prospective students gear up for their academic journey, knowing when and where to apply is crucial. This guide provides detailed information on universities in South Africa that are open for 2025 applications. From opening dates to closing dates and application procedures, this comprehensive guide aims to assist students in navigating the application process smoothly.

Understanding Application Dates

Before diving into the application process, it’s essential to understand the opening and closing dates for university applications. Each institution has its timeline for receiving applications, and missing these deadlines could mean missing out on securing a spot at your desired university. Here’s a breakdown of the opening and closing dates for various South African universities:

2025 University Application Dates

UNIVERSITY	OPENING DATE	CLOSING DATE	LINK TO APPLY	APPLICATION FEE
University of Cape Town (UCT)	2 April 2024	31 July 2024	Apply here	R100 (SADC applicants) / R300 (non-SADC applicants)
University of the Western Cape (UWC)	2 April 2024	30 August 2024 (Dentistry Undergraduate programmes) / 30 September 2024 (Other programmes)	Apply here	FREE
Stellenbosch University (SU)	1 April 2024	31 July 2024	Apply here	R 100
University of Johannesburg (UJ)	1 April 2024	1 October 2024	Apply here	FREE (Online application) / R200 (Manual application)
University of Pretoria (UP)	2 April 2024	31 May 2024 (Faculty of Veterinary Science) / 30 June 2024 (All other faculties)	Apply here	R 300
University of the Witwatersrand (WITS)	1 March 2024	30 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 here	R100 (South African citizens) / R700 (foreign citizens)
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)	TBC	30 June 2024 (Medicine) / 30 September 2024 (All other Undergraduate Programmes)	Apply here	R210 (On-time applications: SA applicants) / R420 (Late applications: SA applicants) / R490 (SADC and rest of Africa applicants)
Rhodes University (RU)	1 May 2024	30 September 2024	Apply here	R 100
University of South Africa (UNISA)	1 September 2024	1 January 2025	Apply here	R 135
North West University (NWU)	2 April 2024	28 June 2024 / 30 August 2024	Apply here	FREE
University of the Free State (UFS)	1 April 2024	30 September 2024	Apply here	FREE
Sol Plaatje University (SPU)	1 April 2024	30 November 2024	Apply here	FREE
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMU)	1 April 2024	30 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 here	FREE (for South African citizens) / R500 (for International Students)
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)	13 May 2024	July 2024 / September 2024	Apply here	R 100
Durban University of Technology (DUT)	1 April 2024	30 September 2024	Apply here	R250 (South Africans citizens) / R300 (international applicants)
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)	1 April 2024	31 May 2024 / 30 September 2024	Apply here	R250 (South Africans citizens) / R300 (international applicants)
University of Venda (Univen)	2 May 2024	26 September 2024	Apply here	R 100
University of Zululand (Unizulu)	TBC	TBC	Apply here	R 100
Vaal University of Technology (VUT)	1 May 2024	1 September 2024	Apply here	R 100
Central University of Technology (CUT)	27 March 2024	30 September 2024	Apply here	FREE
Walter Sisulu University (WSU)	2 April 2024	30 September 2024 (Health Sciences, International Applicants) / 31 October 2024 (SA applicants)	Apply here	FREE
University of Limpopo (UL)	TBC	TBC	Apply here	R200 (South African applicants) / R750 (International Applicants)
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)	1 March 2024	15 June 2024 / 30 September 2024	Apply here	R 240
University of Fort Hare (UFH)	1 March 2024	15 June 2024 / 30 September 2024	Apply here	FREE (Online Application) / R120 (Manual Application for South African students) / R500 (Manual Application for International Students)
University of Mpumalanga (UMP)	1 June 2024	1 November 2024	Apply here	R150 (RSA/SADC Applicants) / R350 (other African Countries) / R500 (countries outside Africa)
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)	2 April 2024	31 July 2024 (undergraduate programmes) / 30 August 2024 (postgraduate programmes)	Apply here	R 300

Selecting the Right University

Choosing the right university is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your academic journey. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a university:

1. Course Offerings: Ensure that the university offers the course or degree program you’re interested in pursuing. Additionally, consider whether the institution is renowned for excellence in your chosen field of study.
2. Cost Comparison: Compare the costs of tuition and other expenses across different universities. Remember that a higher admission fee doesn’t necessarily indicate superior quality.
3. Additional Expenses: Consider additional expenses such as accommodation, transport, and living costs, especially if the university is located far from your home.
4. Student Support Services: Research the availability of student support services, including tutoring facilities, health and wellness centers, and extracurricular activities.
5. Accreditation: Ensure that the university is accredited by the Council on Higher Education to maintain the quality and recognition of your degree.

Application Process

Once you’ve identified your preferred universities, it’s time to start the application process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Check Application Dates: Refer to the provided table to determine the opening and closing dates for each university.
2. Visit University Websites: Go to the websites of your chosen universities and locate the online application portal.
3. Complete Online Application: Fill out the online application form accurately, providing all required personal and academic information.
4. Pay Application Fee: Pay the relevant application fee as specified by the university. Some institutions offer free online applications, while others may require a fee.
5. Prepare Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including identification, academic transcripts, and any additional certificates or records required by the university.
6. Submit Application: Once you’ve completed the online application and attached all required documents, submit your application through the university’s portal.
7. Monitor Application Status: Regularly check your email for updates on your application status. Some universities may provide an acknowledgment letter with a unique student number for tracking purposes.
8. Respond to Offers: If you receive offers of admission, carefully review the terms and conditions before accepting or declining them. Follow the specified procedures for enrollment and registration.

Funding Your Studies

Funding your university studies is an essential aspect to consider. Explore various options, including bursaries, student loans, and NSFAS funding:

• Bursaries: Apply for bursaries based on academic merit, financial need, or specific fields of study. Research available bursaries and their eligibility criteria.
• Student Loans: Consider applying for student loans from major banks or financial institutions to cover tuition and living expenses. Ensure that you understand the repayment terms and interest rates.
• NSFAS Funding: If you come from a lower-income household, explore the possibility of receiving funding from NSFAS. Check the eligibility criteria and application process for NSFAS funding.

Conclusion

Securing admission to a South African university requires careful planning and timely action. By understanding the application dates, selecting the right institution, and following the application process diligently, prospective students can increase their chances of success. Remember to explore funding options to support your academic journey. Good luck with your applications!