University & College Application Deadlines for 2026/2027

University & College Application Deadlines for 2026/2027

Planning to study at a university or college in South Africa? Then knowing the application deadlines for the 2026/2027 academic year is essential. Applying on time gives you the best chance of securing your place in your preferred course and institution. Each university or college sets its own opening and closing dates, which is why staying informed is so important. If you apply late or miss the deadline completely, you may need to wait another year before applying again.

For applications to South African universities for the 2026 academic year, most institutions open their applications in April 2025. Closing dates vary and can fall in June, July, August, September, or October 2025, depending on the university and the course. For example, the University of Pretoria has an early deadline of May 31, 2025, for programmes such as Veterinary Science. This makes it important to research your specific course in advance to avoid missing the cut-off date.

Submitting your application early, with all required documents, improves your chances of being accepted and helps you avoid last-minute stress. This guide will help you understand the general application periods for South African universities and colleges for both the 2026 and 2027 academic years. Whether you plan to apply to a traditional university, a University of Technology, or a TVET college, this article will give you the information you need to stay on track.

Universities & Colleges Application Dates

Most universities and colleges in South Africa start accepting applications for the 2026 academic year from April to August 2025. The closing dates depend on the institution and the specific programme but usually fall between August and November 2025.

Below is a general overview of the expected application periods for some of the country’s well-known institutions:

University of South Africa (UNISA)

Applications open in August 2025 and close in October 2025.

University of Cape Town (UCT)

Applications open in April 2025 and close in July 2025 for most undergraduate programmes.

University of Pretoria (UP)

The application window starts in April 2025, with deadlines ranging between June and September 2025, depending on the course. Some programmes, like Veterinary Science, have an earlier deadline of May 31, 2025.

Stellenbosch University

Opens in April 2025, with closing dates between July and August 2025.

Durban University of Technology (DUT)

Opens in May 2025 and closes in September 2025.

TVET Colleges

Applications often open around August and close around October for first trimester/semester enrolment.

NB: Make sure to check the official website of the university or college you are applying to for accurate application dates, a list of required documents, and the specific closing dates for your chosen programme.

Universities & Colleges Courses| University & College Application Deadlines for 2026/2027

Universities and colleges in South Africa provide a wide range of courses designed to meet different academic and career goals. Whether you are interested in earning a degree at a university or gaining hands-on skills at a TVET college, you will find many study options to choose from. These courses are aimed at helping students prepare for employment or further study.

Common University Courses

Universities focus on academic qualifications such as diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, and postgraduate programmes. Popular study fields include:

Business and Commerce

Accounting
Marketing
Economics
Human Resources

Engineering and Built Environment

Civil
Electrical
Mechanical Engineering
Architecture

Health Sciences

Nursing
Medicine
Public Health
Pharmacy

Education

Foundation Phase
Intermediate and Senior Phase Teaching

Law and Social Sciences

Law (LLB)
Psychology
Political Science
Sociology

Science and Technology

Computer Science
Chemistry
Mathematics
Biology

Arts and Humanities

Languages
Visual Arts
History
Media Studies

Popular Courses at TVET Colleges

TVET colleges offer career-focused training that prepares students with practical skills. Some of the most in-demand programmes include:

Engineering Studies
Information Technology and Computer Science
Business and Office Administration
Hospitality and Catering Services
Tourism, Safety and Security
Primary Health and Early Childhood Development
Agriculture

READ: Unisa Online Application 2026 Postgraduate

Required Documents To Apply For Universities & Colleges

The following documents are required to complete the applications for admissions at either a university or college;

Certified copy of your ID or passport

This confirms your identity and is needed for registration.

Certified copy of your latest school results

You will usually need to submit Grade 11 final results or your National Senior Certificate (NSC)/Matric results.

Academic transcripts

If you studied at another institution, include your academic records.

Proof of payment for the application fee

Most institutions charge a non-refundable fee, and proof of payment is required.

Proof of residence

Some universities or colleges ask for a certified document confirming your address.

Passport-size photograph

This may be needed for your student card or records.

Additional documents for specific programmes

Programmes like Fine Arts or Drama may ask for a portfolio.

How To Apply Online For Admissions at Universities & Colleges

Most universities and TVET colleges accept online applications for admissions, simplifying the process. Follow the general guide below to apply online at a College or University:

Select Your Institution and Programme

Go to the official website of the university or college you want to apply to. Review the available courses and make sure you meet the admission requirements for your preferred programme.