While the 2023 academic year is in full swing, 2024 university applications will be opening soon, or have opened already.
Whether that's very soon or later throughout the year, those hoping to apply should take note of the various dates for the various institutions they are considering applying to.
There are 26 public universities in the country, with 25 of them having opened their 2024 university applications already. The University of South Africa (Unisa) is yet to announce their 2024 application dates.
Those who are interested in applying and are hoping to enter tertiary education next year, need to be aware of the following dates for the following universities:
Tshwane University of Technology
- Opening date: 4 March 2023
- Closing date: 30 September 2023
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- Opening date: 6 March 2023
- Closing date: 30 June 2023 (Faculty of Health Sciences [all programmes], Bachelor of Architecture, Bachelor of Audiology, Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology, BA Film and TV; 30 September 2023 (all other university programmes)
Applications for part-time degrees open from 3 July for 2024. Applications for occasional studies (including GEMP prerequisites): open from 1 July for 2024.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Opening date: 16 May 2023
- Closing date: 28 July 2023 (Teaching courses, Bachelor in Nursing); 28 September 2023 (other programmes)
University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- Opening date: 13 April 2023
- Closing date: 30 September 2023
University of Cape Town (UCT)
- Opening date: 3 April 2023
- Closing date: 31 July 2023
Stellenbosch University (SU)
- Opening date: 3 April 2023
- Closing date: 31 July 2023
Rhodes University (RU)
- Opening date: 31 May 2023
- Closing date: 30 September 2023
Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
- Opening date: May 2023
- Closing date: 30 September 2023
Central University of Technology (CUT)
- Opening date: 31 March 2023
- Closing date: 29 September 2023
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
- Opening date: 3 April 2023
- Closing date: 28 July 2023
Sol Plaatje University (SPU)
- Opening date: 12 July 2023
- Closing date: 30 November 2023
Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- Opening date: 3 April 2023
- Closing date: 29 September 2023
North West University (NWU)
- Opening date: 3 April 2023
- Closing date: 30 June 2023
University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- Opening date: 1 April 2023
- Closing date: 31 October 2023
University of Limpopo (UL)
- Opening date: 8 March 2023
- Closing date: 28 July 2023 (MBChB); 29 September 2023 (all other programmes)
University of the Free State (UFS)
- Opening date: 5 April 2023
- Closing date: 30 September 2023
University of Venda (Univen)
- Opening date: 2 May 2023
- Closing date: 27 September 2023
University of Zululand (Unizulu)
- Opening date: 1 April 2023
- Closing date: 30 September 2023
University of South Africa (Unisa)
- Opening date: 11 August 2023
- Closing date: 15 October 2023
University of Fort Hare (UFH)
- Opening date: 1 June 2023
- Closing date: 30 October 2023
Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
- Opening date: 2 May 2023
- Closing date: 30 September 2023 (Health Science); 31 October 2023 (all other programmes)
University of Pretoria (UP)
- Opening date: 1 April 2023
- Closing date: 31 May 2023 (Faculty of Veterinary Science); 30 June 2023 (all other faculties)
Keep in mind that these dates are subject to change throughout the year. Many university application closing dates are between July and October.
These universities are expected to release their application dates in the coming weeks, so keep an eye out so that you don't miss the deadlines
The following universities are yet to announce the opening and closing dates for 2024 applications to their institutions:
- Sol Plaatje University
- Durban University of Technoligy
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
- University of Mpumalanga (UMP)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- North West University (NWU)
It's best to keep an eye out on these university's websites for the announcement of relevant dates so that you don't miss the deadlines to apply, and therefore miss out on the chance to study next year.
Academic Requirements To Enroll In A South African University
To enroll in a South African university, prospective students must hold a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification, such as an international school-leaving certificate.
The NSC is obtained after completing the National Senior Certificate Examination, commonly known as Matric.
Subject Requirements
Different degree programs have specific subject prerequisites depending on the university. For instance, engineering programs may require Mathematics and Physical Science.
Teaching students also have requirements about what courses they can follow. If you want to study architecture you will probably need to submit a detailed portfolio.
Prospective students must consult the admission guidelines of their desired program to ensure they meet the subject requirements at their desired university.
Minimum Admission Points Score (APS)
The APS is a points-based system used by South African universities to assess applicants' academic achievements. It considers both the NSC results and performance in specific subjects.
Each programme has a minimum APS requirement, and students must aim to achieve or exceed this score to be considered for admission.
Language Proficiency
Since English is the primary medium of instruction in most South African universities, international students and those whose first language is not English may be required to demonstrate proficiency through tests like the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
Application Process
Students must submit their applications directly to the universities of their choice. The application process typically includes completing an online application form, providing necessary documents, and paying an application fee.
When making an online application make sure that you follow the online application guidelines and pay the required application fee. You should be able to keep track of your online application status by email.
Application Fee
Many, but not all universities, need you to pay an application fee as part of your application, such as the University of Pretoria. Universities will issue application fee information once their applications open.
Which Universities Don't Need Application Fees?
- University of Johannesburg
- North West University
- University of the Free State
- Sol Plaatje University
- Central University of Technology
- Nelson Mandela University
- Walter Sisulu University
- University of the Western Cape
