The 2026 university application dates for South African institutions have been announced. It’s crucial for prospective students to note the application deadlines for the universities they’re interested in to avoid missing the opportunity to apply.
2026 University Application Dates
Below is a comprehensive guide on the 2026 application dates for major South African universities.
1. University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- Application period: 1 April – 30 September
- The University of the Western Cape offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Applications for 2026 are open for most of the year, so applicants have ample time to submit their applications.
2. Stellenbosch University
- Application period: 1 April – 31 July
- Stellenbosch University has a relatively short application window. It’s essential to apply early within this period to secure a spot for the 2026 academic year.
3. University of Pretoria (UP)
- Application period: 1 April
- The University of Pretoria opens its applications for 2026 from the 1st of April, so applicants should prepare their documents early to ensure timely submission.
4. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- Application period: Now open until 30 June / 30 September
- The University of the Witwatersrand allows for flexibility, offering extended application periods until the end of September.
5. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- Application period: Now open until 30 September
- Applications for UKZN are open for most of the year, giving students time to gather their documentation and apply.
6. North West University (NWU)
- Application period: 1 April
- North West University is among the institutions with an early application date. Applicants should get their application ready to submit by April.
7. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- Application period: 1 April until 30 June / 1 August / 30 September
- Nelson Mandela University has flexible application deadlines spread across the year, so applicants can submit during any of these periods.
Recommended for you: Wits University Applications for 2026 Are Now Open!
8. University of Zululand
- Application period: Now open until 31 October
- The University of Zululand has a late deadline, giving applicants until the end of October to submit their application for the 2026 academic year.
9. Central University of Technology (CUT)
- Application period: 13 May until 30 September
- Central University of Technology opens its applications mid-year, providing a more condensed period for prospective students.
10. Walter Sisulu University
- Application period: 1 April until 31 October
- Walter Sisulu University offers an extended application window until the end of October, allowing applicants more time to prepare.
11. University of Limpopo
- Application period: 1 April until 30 July / 29 September
- The University of Limpopo has a divided application period, with different deadlines depending on the course or program. Applicants should check the specific program dates.
12. Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- Application period: Now open until 30 September
- DUT allows students to apply through a long application window, giving enough time to those who may have missed earlier deadlines.
13. Sefako Makgatho University
- Application period: 1 April until 31 July
- Sefako Makgatho University offers a relatively short application period. Prospective students should ensure their application is submitted before the July deadline.
14. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Application period: 1 April until 30 September
- Tshwane University of Technology gives applicants a longer window to apply, but it’s important to note that the application closes at the end of September.
15. Mangosuthu University of Technology
- Application period: Now open until 30 September
- Applications for Mangosuthu University of Technology are open for most of the year, giving prospective students ample time to submit their applications.
16. University of the Free State
- Application period: 1 April until 30 September
- The University of the Free State offers a standard application period, allowing prospective students to apply early within the specified dates.
17. University of Fort Hare
- Application period: 1 June until 31 October
- The University of Fort Hare has a later application deadline, allowing students until October to apply for the 2026 academic year.
18. University of Cape Town (UCT)
- Application period: 1 April until 31 July
- One of South Africa’s top universities, UCT has a relatively short application window, so it’s important for applicants to apply early.
19. Rhodes University
- Application period: April 2025
- Rhodes University has an advanced application date, meaning applicants must plan ahead for the 2026 academic year.
20. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- Application period: 1 April until 31 October
- UJ has a generous application period, giving students plenty of time to apply.
Also check: Council for Geoscience Bursary Programme 2025
Applying to university is a significant step, and it’s essential to adhere to the application deadlines. South African universities have varied deadlines, with some institutions offering extended application periods, while others have more rigid timelines. To ensure that your application is successful, be sure to check the exact dates for the university and program you are interested in, and prepare all required documents ahead of time. Don’t miss your chance to apply – make sure you stay on top of the dates!
