Universities Accepting Applications for 2026

Missed the early university deadlines? Don’t worry; there are still universities accepting applications in South Africa for the 2026 academic year. Many public institutions, including TVET colleges, offer late or rolling admissions for undergraduate programs.

Whether you’re a matriculant, a gap-year student, or someone looking for a fresh start, this guide highlights South African universities and TVET colleges still open for 2025 applications; helping you secure your place before classes start in 2026.

Who’s This For?

• Matriculants who missed the first application cycle
• Students applying for 2026 undergraduate programs
• South African citizens looking for affordable, public higher education
• Anyone searching for universities accepting applications right now

Public Universities Accepting Applications for 2026

These public universities are still open for 2025 late applications and will consider undergraduate students for the 2026 intake. Deadlines vary, so act quickly.

1. Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)

• Late Application Deadline: 30 November 2025
• Application Platform: CAO
• Application Fee: Late fee applies
• Fields Offered: Engineering, Natural Sciences, Management Sciences

MUT is one of the last public universities accepting applications through the Central Applications Office (CAO). Ideal for students in KwaZulu-Natal.

2. University of Mpumalanga (UMP)

• Deadline: 30 November 2025
• Application Link: ienabler.ump.ac.za
• Application Fee: Free
• Programs Offered: Education, Agriculture, ICT, Development Studies

UMP allows students to apply for two programs on one form and is known for being accessible to first-generation university students.

3. North-West University (NWU)

• Deadlines:
  • Selection programs (e.g., Nursing): 30 June 2025
  • All other programs: 31 August 2025
• Application Portal: applynow.nwu.ac.za
• Application Fee: None

NWU is one of the top-ranked universities accepting applications and offers a wide variety of courses across three campuses.

4. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)

• Deadline: 30 September 2025
• Portal: tut.ac.za
• Application Fee: R240

TUT is one of South Africa’s largest institutions. As one of the key universities accepting applications, it’s ideal for applied sciences, engineering, and creative arts.

5. Vaal University of Technology (VUT)

• Main Deadline: 31 October 2025
• Early Closing for Select Programs (e.g., BEd): 31 August 2025
• Apply Here: applications-prod.vut.ac.za

VUT offers strong programs in education, engineering, and applied sciences, and allows students to track their application status online.

Public TVET Colleges Still Accepting Applications

Many public TVET colleges accept applications throughout the year — especially for NATED and NC(V) qualifications. These colleges are ideal for students looking for practical skills and fast-tracked employment opportunities.

1. Central Johannesburg TVET College (CJC)

• Late Applications Close: 5 February annually
• Application Portal: ienabler.cjc.edu.za
• Courses Offered: Engineering, Hospitality, ICT, Business

CJC is one of the busiest colleges in Gauteng, with multiple campuses and year-round support for applicants.

2. Other TVET Colleges with Rolling Admissions

These colleges typically accept students on a rolling basis or offer multiple intakes:

• Capricorn TVET College
• Gert Sibande TVET College
• Ekurhuleni East TVET College
• Coastal KZN TVET College
• False Bay TVET College
• Waterberg TVET College
• Tshwane South TVET College

These institutions may reopen applications at various points in the year, especially before a new term or semester begins. Visit their official websites for real-time updates.

Related: 2025 UNISA Registration for Semester 2

What You Need to Apply

Whether you’re applying to universities accepting applications or a TVET college, you will typically need the following documents:

• Certified copy of your ID or passport
• Matric certificate or latest academic results
• Proof of residence
• Supporting documents specific to your chosen program (e.g., medical form for Nursing, portfolio for Design)
• NSFAS reference number (if applying for funding)

Apply for NSFAS

If your household income is R350,000/year or less, you may qualify for NSFAS — a government bursary that covers:

• Tuition and registration fees
• Accommodation and meals
• Learning materials and transport

Apply here: www.nsfas.org.za

Final Tips for Late Applicants

• Submit your application early; even if it’s a “late” window
• Double-check specific faculty deadlines (some close earlier than others)
• Have multiple options ready in case your first choice is full
• Track your application and follow up with institutions regularly

Useful Resources

Even if you missed the first application deadline, many universities accepting applications in 2025 are still giving you the opportunity to study in 2026. From respected public universities to practical TVET colleges, your path to higher education is still open. All you need to do is take the next step and do it soon.