South Africa boasts 26 public universities, such as the University of Pretoria, University of Johannesburg, University of Stellenbosch, University of Limpopo, University of Free State, University of Cape Town, University of the Western Cape, University of Venda, and numerous others, providing high-quality university programs.
All universities in South Africa have now concluded their 2025 application process, leaving many prospective students wondering if late applications will still be an option.
2025 University Late Applications
Universities South Africa (USAf) has provided clarity on which institutions will accept late applications for the 2025 academic year. According to USAf, ten universities plan to accommodate late applications:
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) - NOW OPEN!!!
- Durban University of Technology (DUT) - NOW OPEN!!!
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) - NOW OPEN!!!
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) - NOW OPEN!!!
- Rhodes University (RU)
- University of Johannesburg (UJ) - NOW OPEN!!!!
- University of Limpopo (UL)
- University of South Africa (Unisa) - NOW OPEN!!!
- University of Zululand (Unizulu) - NOW OPEN!!!
Additionally, three universities will allow walk-in applications:
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Rhodes University (RU)
- University of Zululand (Unizulu)
Late Applications at Unisa
Unisa has confirmed it will re-open applications for specific undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral qualifications for the 2025 academic year.
- Undergraduate qualifications: Applications will be open from 13 to 27 January 2025.
- Postgraduate qualifications: Applications for selected honours degrees and postgraduate diplomas will also re-open during this period.
- Doctoral qualifications: Applications for Unisa’s postgraduate programmes are already open, with a deadline of 31 January 2025.
Prospective students are encouraged to act promptly during these late application periods to secure their spots.
Consider TVET Colleges
TVET Colleges are an alternative to university that also provide valuable qualifications that are closely linked to industry demands. You could look into TVET Colleges like Central Johannesburg TVET College, College of Cape Town, False Bay TVET College and many others.
