UniHelp
South African education help portal

How to apply to university in South Africa (step-by-step)

Applying to university is mostly a checklist. If you follow the steps below, you’ll avoid the common mistakes that cause delays and rejections.

⚠️ Dates and exact processes differ by university and can change each year. Always confirm on the university’s official admissions page.

Step 1: Pick the course first (not the university)

Start with:

  • The career/field you want (e.g. teaching, accounting, IT, engineering)
  • 2–3 courses/programmes that lead there

Then compare universities that offer those programmes.

Step 2: Check entry requirements (APS + subjects)

Every programme has:

  • A minimum APS
  • Required subjects (often Maths / Science / Languages)
  • Sometimes minimum % levels in those subjects

👉 Use this page to check official university requirements (UCT/Wits/UP links):
University APS requirements (official links)

Step 3: Calculate your APS properly

Before you apply, calculate your APS using your marks.

👉 Try the APS Calculator:
APS Calculator

Make sure you:

  • Count best 6 vs best 7 (depends on the institution)
  • Include/exclude Life Orientation correctly
  • Confirm Maths vs Math Lit requirements for your target programme

Step 4: Prepare your documents

Most universities commonly ask for:

  • Certified ID copy
  • Latest school results (Grade 11 final or Grade 12 latest)
  • Proof of residence/address (sometimes)
  • Parent/guardian info (sometimes)
  • Any programme-specific documents (if required)

Tip: Keep a folder on your phone/computer with clear scans/photos.

If you’re also applying for funding:

Step 5: Apply online (or through the university’s application system)

Most universities:

  • Have an online application portal
  • Let you apply for multiple programme choices
  • Ask you to upload documents or submit them later

Important:

  • Apply for your top choice and also a backup option you realistically qualify for.

Step 6: Pay attention to application fees (if applicable)

Some universities charge an application fee (others don’t). Always confirm on the university site:

  • Whether there is a fee
  • How to pay
  • Proof of payment rules (if needed)

Step 7: Track your application and respond fast

After applying:

  • Check your email and SMS messages
  • Log into the university portal regularly
  • Upload extra documents immediately if requested

Many students lose places because they respond too late.

Step 8: Accept your offer (when you get one)

If you’re offered a place:

  • Accept it before the deadline
  • Follow the instructions (some require deposits/registration steps)

If you don’t accept in time, the offer can be withdrawn.

Step 9: Register and finalize funding

Registration usually requires:

  • Proof of acceptance
  • Final results (if you applied using Grade 11/early Grade 12 results)
  • Funding confirmation (if applicable)

If you need NSFAS:

If your marks are not enough (don’t panic)

You still have options:

Quick application checklist (copy this)

  • ✅ Chosen programme + backup programme
  • ✅ Checked APS + required subjects
  • ✅ Calculated APS: APS Calculator
  • ✅ Documents ready (ID + latest results)
  • ✅ Applied on the official university portal
  • ✅ Tracking portal + email checked regularly
  • ✅ Offer accepted on time (if received)
  • ✅ Funding plan in place (NSFAS or other)

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