Functions for the 2026 educational 12 months at the moment are formally open at most universities — and in the event you’re planning to start out your research subsequent 12 months, the time to behave is now.
Making use of early not solely provides you a greater likelihood of securing a spot in your chosen programme, but additionally permits you sufficient time to organize for funding, lodging and all the pieces else that comes with the transition to school life.
Right here’s what you could know concerning the 2026 utility season:
Functions Are Already Underway
A number of main universities, together with the College of Pretoria, Stellenbosch College, and the College of Johannesburg, have already opened functions for 2026. Some establishments, such because the College of Cape City (UCT), even have earlier deadlines for particular programmes.
Time limits differ, with some universities accepting functions till as late as October 2025, whereas others — significantly for aggressive programs like Drugs and Regulation — require submissions by mid-year. It’s crucial to verify the particular deadlines for every college and programme.
Put together Your Paperwork Early
When making use of, you have to:
- An authorized copy of your ID or passport
- Your ultimate Grade 11 outcomes or newest educational transcript
- Proof of residence
- A accomplished utility type (submitted on-line or manually)
- Proof of utility price fee (the place relevant)
Some programmes can also require further paperwork, reminiscent of a portfolio, audition or entrance examination outcomes just like the Nationwide Benchmark Assessments (NBTs).
Beginning this course of early will be sure that your utility is full and prepared whenever you submit it.
Software Charges and Monetary Planning
Whereas a number of universities provide free on-line functions, others cost charges starting from R100 to R500 relying on the establishment and whether or not the appliance is native or worldwide.
It’s essential to issue these prices into your price range in the event you plan on making use of to a number of universities. Incomplete or unpaid functions won’t be processed.
Funding Functions Are Simply as Essential
Making use of for college is just step one. College students are inspired to use for monetary help, bursaries and scholarships on the identical time.
NSFAS functions, for example, are anticipated to open later this 12 months, however many personal bursary programmes open a lot earlier. Universities even have inside bursary functions that usually shut alongside educational functions.
College students needing further help also can discover academic finance options by Fundi, which affords examine loans, gadget loans, and different monetary merchandise to assist cowl the prices of tertiary schooling.
For extra examine, profession and funding recommendation, go to www.fundiconnect.co.za or e mail help@fundi.co.za.
Fb: @fundiconnectSA or X: @fundi_connect
