Are you ready to embark on the next big step in your academic journey in South Africa for the year 2026? Securing your spot at a university is a pivotal step, and knowing the exact application dates is crucial for a smooth application process.

This detailed guide is designed to help you navigate through the “South Africa University Application Dates for 2026 | When Universities Will Open 2026 Applications,” ensuring you’re well-prepared and informed about each university’s application timeline

Some universities in South Africa have already revealed when they’ll be opening their 2026 applications for admission. If you want to get a head start on your application process, this is some great information you should take advantage of.

South Africa University Application Dates for 2026

If you’re planning to study at one of South Africa’s 26 public universities, it’s good to know the university application dates. This is important because you need to make sure that you apply on time and your application process goes smoothly.

University Application Dates For 2026 Academic Year, Including Closing Dates

Here are the South African universities and their opening dates and closing dates for the 2026 academic year. Most of these universities will have an application fee. Even though you haven’t completed your National Senior Certificate yet, you will be able to apply to university with copies of your Grade 11 exam results. Other required documents would include your South African ID document.

University of the Western Cape 2026 Application Dates

The application season at the University of the Western Cape commences on 11 May, welcoming prospective students to submit their applications. For those eyeing a spot in the Dentistry Undergraduate programmes, mark 30 August on your calendar as the final day to apply. Meanwhile, applications for all other programmes remain open until 30 September, giving you a generous window to prepare your submission.

IMPORTANT LINK

• University of the Western Cape( UWC) Admission Requirements
• University of the Western Cape (UWC) Online Application 
• University of the Western Cape (UWC) List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• University of the Western Cape (UWC) Calendar | Important Dates
• University of the Western Cape (UWC) Student Portal Login
• UWC Ikamva Login 
• University of the Western Cape (UWC) Prospectus 
• University of the Western Cape (UWC) Apply For Student Housing

Stellenbosch University 2026 Application Dates

Applications at Stellenbosch University open on 1 April, inviting students to apply for various programmes offered. As one of South Africa’s premier institutions, securing your application early can provide a competitive edge in the admissions process.

University of Cape Town 2026 Application Dates

The University of Cape Town, renowned for its high academic standards and vibrant student life, accepts applications from 2 April to 31 July. This period allows ample time for applicants to gather necessary documents and complete the application process meticulously.

IMPORTANT LINK

• University of Cape Town (UCT) Admission Requirements
• University of Cape Town (UCT) Online Application 
• University of Cape Town (UCT) List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• University of Cape Town (UCT) Calendar | Important Dates
• University of Cape Town (UCT) Student Portal Login 
• UCT Vula Login A complete Guide 
• University of Cape Town (UCT) Prospectus 
• University of Cape Town (UCT) Apply For Student Housing

University of Pretoria 2026 Application Dates

Starting on 1 April, the University of Pretoria opens its doors for applications. Those aspiring to join the Faculty of Veterinary programmes must submit their applications by 31 May, whereas applications for all other faculties are due by 30 June. Planning ahead can greatly benefit your application to this institution known for excellence in research and teaching.

IMPORTANT LINK

• University of Pretoria Admission Requirements
• University of Pretoria Online Application 
• University of Pretoria List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• University of Pretoria Calendar | Important Dates
• University of Pretoria Student Portal Login 
• University of Pretoria Prospectus 
• University of Pretoria Apply For Student Housing

University of the Witwatersrand 2026 Application Dates

From 1 March, prospective students can apply to the University of the Witwatersrand. Those interested in Teaching courses and the Bachelor of Nursing need to apply by 30 June, while the deadline for all other programmes is 30 September. Known as Wits, this university is a beacon of academic excellence and innovation in South Africa.

IMPORTANT LINK

• University of the Witwatersrand Admission Requirements
• University of the Witwatersrand Online Application 
• University of the Witwatersrand List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• University of the Witwatersrand Calendar | Important Dates
• University of the Witwatersrand Student Portal Login 
• University of the Witwatersrand Prospectus 
• University of the Witwatersrand Apply For Student Housing

University of KwaZulu Natal 2026 Application Dates

Spanning from 1 April to 30 September, the University of KwaZulu Natal offers a broad application window, accommodating a diverse range of academic interests and specializations. This flexibility aids students in ensuring their applications are thorough and well-prepared.

IMPORTANT LINK

• University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN) Admission Requirements
• University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN) Online Application 
• University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN) List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN) Calendar | Important Dates
• University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN) Student Portal Login 
• University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN) Prospectus 
• University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN) Apply For Student Housing

Rhodes University 2026 Application Dates

Starting in May and concluding on 30 September, Rhodes University‘s application period is ideal for those who require more time to complete their application. Situated in Grahamstown, this institution is known for its outstanding academic programs and close-knit community.

IMPORTANT LINK

• Rhodes University Admission Requirements
• Rhodes University Online Application
• Rhodes University List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• Rhodes University Calendar | Important Dates
• Rhodes University Student Portal Login
• Rhodes University Prospectus
• Rhodes University Apply For Student Housing

Unisa 2026 Application Dates

Unisa, South Africa’s largest university system specializing in distance education, opens its application period from September to January. This unique timeframe accommodates students who may need additional time to decide on their academic future or gather the necessary resources for distance learning.

IMPORTANT LINK

• UNISA Admission Requirements
• UNISA Online Application
• UNISA List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• UNISA Calendar | Important Dates
• UNISA Student Portal Login
• UNISA Prospectus
• UNISA Apply For Student Housing

University of Johannesburg 2026 Application Dates

With one of the longest application periods, from 1 April to 31 October, the University of Johannesburg offers prospective students ample time to apply to its diverse range of programmes. This institution is known for its vibrant student life and strong emphasis on global research and innovation.

IMPORTANT LINK

• University of Johannesburg Admission Requirements
• University of Johannesburg Online Application
• University of Johannesburg List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• University of Johannesburg Calendar | Important Dates
• University of Johannesburg Student Portal Login
• University of Johannesburg Prospectus
• University of Johannesburg Apply For Student Housing

North West University 2026 Application Dates

Applications at North West University commence on 2 April, with deadlines on 28 June for BEd Honours and PGCE, and 30 August for all other courses. This university is celebrated for its commitment to providing a balanced experience of academic excellence and social involvement.

IMPORTANT LINK

• North West University (NWU) Admission Requirements
• North West University (NWU) Online Application
• North West University (NWU) List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• North West University (NWU) Calendar | Important Dates
• North West University (NWU) Student Portal Login
• North West University (NWU) Prospectus
• North West University (NWU) Apply For Student Housing

University of the Free State 2026 Application Dates

Applications open on 1 April, providing a broad range of programmes across various faculties. This university is renowned for its inclusive campus environment and commitment to excellence in both academics and research.

IMPORTANT LINK

• University of the Free State (UFS) Admission Requirements
• University of the Free State (UFS) Online Application
• University of the Free State (UFS) List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• University of the Free State (UFS) Calendar | Important Dates
• University of the Free State (UFS) Student Portal Login
• University of the Free State (UFS) Prospectus
• University of the Free State (UFS) Apply For Student Housing

Nelson Mandela University 2026 Application Dates

Starting in April 2024, Nelson Mandela University invites applications for its diverse array of courses. Important dates include 30 June for programmes like the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB), Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm), and Bachelor of Radiography (BRad). For early applications (excluding the aforementioned programmes), the deadline is 2 August, and for late applications, 30 September. This institution is known for its strong emphasis on innovation, engagement, and sustainability.

IMPORTANT LINK

• Nelson Mandela University Admission Requirements
• Nelson Mandela University Online Application
• Nelson Mandela University List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• Nelson Mandela University Calendar | Important Dates
• Nelson Mandela University Student Portal Login
• Nelson Mandela University Prospectus
• Nelson Mandela University Apply For Student Housing

Cape Peninsula University of Technology 2026 Application Dates

With applications kicking off on 14 May, prospective students have until the end of July to apply for Teaching courses and Bachelor of Nursing, while all other programmes have a deadline at the end of September. CPUT is celebrated for its practical approach to education, preparing students for the workforce with hands-on experience and technical skills.

IMPORTANT LINK

• Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) Admission Requirements
• Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) Online Application
• Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) Calendar | Important Dates
• Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) Student Portal Login
• Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) Prospectus
• Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) Apply For Student Housing

University of Zululand 2026 Application Dates

The application period for the University of Zululand runs from June to the end of September, catering primarily to students interested in pursuing studies in arts, education, science, and commerce. This institution is known for its strong community engagement and research initiatives that focus on local and regional development.

Vaal University of Technology 2026 Application Dates

Starting in May and concluding at the end of September, Vaal University of Technology offers a wide application window with an end of August deadline for specific programmes such as Bachelor of Education in senior phase and FET Teaching, and diplomas in Safety Management, Labour Law, Policing, and Information Technology. VUT is renowned for its emphasis on technological and vocational education, aimed at addressing South Africa’s technical and managerial needs.

IMPORTANT LINK

• Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Admission Requirements
• Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Online Application
• Vaal University of Technology (VUT) List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Calendar | Important Dates
• Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Student Portal Login
• Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Prospectus
• Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Apply For Student Housing

Central University of Technology 2026 Application Dates

The application period for the Central University of Technology spans from 27 March to 30 September, offering a range of innovative and career-oriented programmes. CUT is known for its focus on STEM fields, providing students with a strong foundation in technology and engineering disciplines.

IMPORTANT LINK

• Central University of Technology (CUT) Admission Requirements
• Central University of Technology (CUT) Online Application
• Central University of Technology (CUT) List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• Central University of Technology (CUT) Calendar | Important Dates
• Central University of Technology (CUT) Student Portal Login
• Central University of Technology (CUT) Prospectus
• Central University of Technology (CUT) Apply For Student Housing

Walter Sisulu University 2026 Application Dates

Applications open on 2 April, with a 30 September deadline for Faculty of Health Sciences applicants and a 31 October deadline for all other programmes. This university offers a dynamic and inclusive educational environment, focusing on rural development and the education of historically disadvantaged communities.

IMPORTANT LINK

• Walter Sisulu University (WSU) Admission Requirements
• Walter Sisulu University (WSU) Online Application
• Walter Sisulu University (WSU) List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• Walter Sisulu University (WSU) Calendar | Important Dates
• Walter Sisulu University (WSU) Student Portal Login
• Walter Sisulu University (WSU) Prospectus
• Walter Sisulu University (WSU) Apply For Student Housing

University of Limpopo 2026 Application Dates

The University of Limpopo begins accepting applications on 2 April, with a deadline of 31 July for MBChB applications and 30 September for all other programmes. UL is committed to producing graduates who are socially responsible and capable of engaging with the challenges of the developing world.

IMPORTANT LINK

• University of Limpopo Admission Requirements
• University of Limpopo Online Application
• University of Limpopo List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• University of Limpopo Calendar | Important Dates
• University of Limpopo Student Portal Login
• University of Limpopo Prospectus
• University of Limpopo Apply For Student Housing

University of Mpumalanga 2026 Application Dates

With an application window from June to 30 November, the University of Mpumalanga provides ample time for students to apply for a variety of programmes. This young university focuses on agricultural sciences, education, and hospitality management, aiming to address the skills gap in these critical sectors.

IMPORTANT LINK

• University of Mpumalanga Admission Requirements
• University of Mpumalanga Online Application
• University of Mpumalanga List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• University of Mpumalanga Calendar | Important Dates
• University of Mpumalanga Student Portal Login
• University of Mpumalanga Prospectus
• University of Mpumalanga Apply For Student Housing

Sol Plaatje University 2026 Application Dates

Starting in April and closing on 30 November, Sol Plaatje University offers a wide range of undergraduate programmes. This institution, named after the South African political leader and novelist Sol Plaatje, is known for its strong emphasis on innovation, leadership, and community engagement.

IMPORTANT LINK

• Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Admission Requirements
• Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Online Application
• Sol Plaatje University (SPU) List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Calendar | Important Dates
• Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Student Portal Login
• Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Prospectus
• Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Apply For Student Housing

Durban University of Technology 2026 Application Dates

The application period for Durban University of Technology runs from April to 30 September, welcoming students to its diverse range of programmes. DUT focuses on developing technology-driven and innovative professionals through its practical and career-oriented courses.

IMPORTANT LINK

• Durban University of Technology Admission Requirements
• Durban University of Technology Online Application
• Durban University of Technology List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• Durban University of Technology Calendar | Important Dates
• Durban University of Technology Student Portal Login
• Durban University of Technology Prospectus
• Durban University of Technology Apply For Student Housing

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University 2026 Application Dates

From 2 April to 31 July, SMU invites applications, particularly focusing on health sciences. This university is dedicated to creating healthcare professionals who are committed to improving public health and wellness in South Africa.

IMPORTANT LINK

• Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Admission Requirements
• Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Online Application
• Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Calendar | Important Dates
• Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Student Portal Login
• Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Prospectus
• Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Apply For Student Housing

Tshwane University of Technology 2026 Application Dates

Applications for TUT open in March, with a 15 June deadline for specific programmes and 30 September for general admission for January 2026. TUT is known for its vocational and technical education, preparing students for the professional world with practical skills and knowledge.

IMPORTANT LINK

• Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Admission Requirements
• Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Online Application
• Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Calendar | Important Dates
• Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Student Portal Login
• Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Prospectus
• Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Apply For Student Housing

University of Fort Hare 2026 Application Dates

The University of Fort Hare sets its application period from June to 30 October. As one of Africa’s oldest universities, it boasts a rich heritage of producing influential leaders and scholars. The university offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across its faculties, emphasizing the development of leadership and innovation in its students. Prospective students are encouraged to apply within this window to secure a place in this institution known for its academic excellence and contribution to the African renaissance.

IMPORTANT LINK

• University of Fort Hare Admission Requirements
• University of Fort Hare Online Application
• University of Fort Hare List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• University of Fort Hare Calendar | Important Dates
• University of Fort Hare Student Portal Login
• University of Fort Hare Prospectus
• University of Fort Hare Apply For Student Housing

Mangosuthu University of Technology 2026 Application Dates

Applications at Mangosuthu University of Technology are open from April to 30 September. Situated in the vibrant city of Durban, MUT is renowned for its focus on technological and engineering disciplines, designed to meet the demands of South Africa’s growing economy. The university provides practical and industry-relevant education, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce with the necessary skills and knowledge. Applying within these dates will grant prospective students the opportunity to join an institution committed to innovation and community development.

University of Venda 2026 Application Dates

The University of Venda welcomes applications from 2 May to 26 September, offering a wide array of programs in fields such as Health Sciences, Natural Sciences, Humanities, Management Sciences, and Agricultural Sciences. Univen, located in Thohoyandou in the scenic Vhembe district of Limpopo, is deeply committed to rural development and the empowerment of its community. The university’s focus on research and community engagement makes it an ideal choice for students interested in contributing to sustainable development and social transformation in South Africa and beyond.

IMPORTANT LINK

• UNIVEN Admission Requirements
• UNIVEN Online Application
• UNIVEN List of Courses and Programmes Offered
• UNIVEN Calendar | Important Dates
• UNIVEN Student Portal Login
• UNIVEN Prospectus
• UNIVEN Apply For Student Housing