14 Universities Open For 2025 Applications in South Africa

14 Universities Open for 2025 Applications in South Africa

It’s that time of the year for prospective students as universities open for 2025 applications.

In today’s post, we will share a list of universities in South Africa that have opened their doors for 2025 applications.

Prospectus of the universities are included for you to see what programs these institutions are currently offering.

Also, check out our tips on how to apply online to help you through your application processes. 

Let’s get right into it.

1. University of Johannesburg (UJ)

Based in the Gauteng province, UJ is currently open for 2025 applications. The institution has a high interest rate so you should apply as quickly as possible to secure your place.

Closing date: 31 October 2024

Application fee: R200 hard copy application, FREE for online application

Number of campuses: 4 

Prospectus:  UJ Prospectus 2025

Apply here:  University of Johannesburg Online Application

2. Witwatersrand University  (Wits)

If your dream is to be a witsie then now is your chance. Wits has also opened up their applications for next year. Wits is the 3rd oldest in South Africa and is also based in the Gauteng province.

Closing date: August 2024

Application fee: R100

Number of campuses: 5

Prospectus:  Wits 2025 prospectus

Apply here: University of Witwatersrand Online Application

3. University of Pretoria (UP)

Another fan favorite that is open for 2025 applications in South Africa is the University of Pretoria, commonly known as UP. UP is a large public university and is organized into 9 faculties and a business school.

Closing date: 30 June 2024

Application fee:  FREE if your household income is below 150,000 per year, but you have to show proof of income for 12 months. If your household income is above 150,000 per year, you are eligible to pay an application fee.

Number of campuses: 7

Prospectus: UP Prospectus 2025

Apply here: University of Pretoria Online Application

4. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)

TUT, one of the universities with the most campuses in South Africa has availed them and is open to admitting new students for the year 2025.  TUT is the largest university in South Africa with 7 faculties and over 400 career options. 

Closing date: August 2024

Application fee: R240 

Number of campuses: 9

Prospectus:  TUT 2025 Prospectus

Apply here: Tshwane University of Technology Online Application

5. Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)

If health sciences is your dream then SMU is the place to apply for now as they are open for 2025 admissions.  Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University has 5 schools which include school of:

• Medicine

• Oral Health

• Pharmacy

• Health Care Sciences

• Science and technology

Closing date: 31 July 2024

Application fee: R300

Number of campuses: 1

Prospectus: SMU Prospectus 2025

Apply here: Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University Online Application

6. University of ZuluLand (UniZulu)

Based in the KwaZulu Natal province, Unizulu is part of the universities open for 2025. Students at UniZulu have the opportunity to specialize their degrees in areas they are most interested in. 

Closing date: September 2024

Application fee: R250 via CAO

Number of campuses: 2

Prospectus: UniZulu Prospectus 2025

Apply here: University of Zululand Online Application

7. University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN)

Race towards the virtual doors of UKZN as they are accepting students for the upcoming academic year. UKZN is the only institution in South Africa that has ranked 83 in the top 100 list. 

Closing date: September 2024

Application fee:  R250 via CAO

Number of campuses: 5

Prospectus: UKZN Prospectus 2025 

Apply here: University of KwaZulu Natal Online Application

8. Durban University of Technology (DUT)

One of the universities open for 2025 applications is DUT. If this is on your list of universities to attend, then now is the time to make that happen. DUT offers 32 undergraduate courses, master's courses, and two doctoral programs.

Closing date: September 2024

Application fee:  R250 via  CAO

Number of campuses: 5

Prospectus: DUT Prospectus 2025

Apply here: Durban University of Technology Online Application

9. University of Free State (UFS)

Gather all your documents and head over to UFS as their systems are all going for 2025. UFS offers world-class benefits to its students. Their graduates are highly employable and have the highest success rate in South Africa. 

Closing date: August 2024

Application fee:  FREE

Number of campuses: 3

Prospectus: UFS Prospectus 2025

Apply here: University of Free State Online Application

10. North West University (NWU)

With its main campus in the North West province, NWU is also open for 2025 applications until May 2024. NWU is rated among the top 5% of universities in the world. They also have their very own top-of-the-range telescope called the MAT.

Closing date: 31 August 2024

Application fee: FREE

Number of campuses: 3 

Prospectus:  Each faculty has its own Yearbook find the links to each one here: NWU Prospectus 2025

Apply here: North West University Online Application

11. Stellenbosch University (SUN)

If studying in the Western Cape would be a dream come true, that might just happen as Stellenbosch is currently open for 2025 applications. This Western Cape-based institution consistently ranks in the top 200 worldviews in Geography, Law, and Politics.

Closing date: 31 July 2024

Application fee: R100

Number of campuses: 5

Prospectus: Each faculty has its own Yearbook find the links for each one here SUN Yearbooks

Apply here: Stellenbosch University Online Application

12. University of Cape Town (UCT)

Also on the list of one of the oldest universities in South Africa, UCT is currently open for 2025 applications. It is home to the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences and has various academic programs.

Closing date: 31 July 2024

Application fee: R100

Number of campuses: 6

Prospectus: UCT Prospectus 2025

Apply here: Cape Town University Online Application 

13. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)

Second to last on the list of universities open for 2025 is NMU. If you’ve noted it down on your list of institutions to apply to. Then send in that application to secure your spot as they are accepting new students.

NMU has 7 faculties and is based in the Eastern Cape.

Closing date: August 2024

Application fee: FREE

Number of campuses: 7

Prospectus: NMU Prospectus 2025

Apply here: NMU Online Application

14. Rhodes University (RU)

Lastly, Rhodes University is another institution that is open for 2025 admissions. Rhodes offers high-quality education and all of its degrees are internationally recognized.

Closing date: August 2024

Application fee: R100

Number of campuses: 1 

Prospectus: Rhodes Prospectus 2025

Apply here: Rhodes University Online Application

Tips for Applying Online for 2025 Applications

Applying online can be stressful and confusing as everything has to be accurate.

Here are some tips to help you when applying for universities open for 2025 admissions.

1. Research and Choose Wisely: Before starting your application, thoroughly research the universities you're interested in. Consider factors such as academic programs offered, location, campus facilities, reputation, and cost. Select universities that align with your academic goals and personal preferences.

2. Check Admission Requirements: Each university may have different admission requirements for various programs. Make sure you carefully review the admission criteria for your chosen program, including academic qualifications, standardized test scores (if required), and any additional documents needed.

3. Organize Required Documents: Gather all necessary documents beforehand to streamline the application process. Commonly required documents may include academic transcripts, identification documents (such as a passport or ID), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or motivation letter.

4. Prepare for Online Application Platforms: Familiarize yourself with the online application platforms used by the South African universities you wish to apply to. These platforms may vary from institution to institution. Ensure you have a stable internet connection and a compatible device to complete the application process smoothly.

5. Double-Check Information: Pay close attention when filling out your application form. Provide accurate information, including your personal details, academic history, and contact information. Double-check all entries for errors or typos before submitting your online application.

6. Meet Deadlines: Universities typically have specific application deadlines for each intake period. Mark these deadlines on your calendar and aim to submit your application well before the due date to avoid any last-minute issues. Late applications may not be considered by most universities.

7. Follow Up and Stay Informed: After submitting your application, regularly check your email for any communication from the university regarding the status of your application. Keep track of any additional requirements or steps you need to complete. Stay informed about admission decisions, scholarship opportunities, bursaries,  and enrollment procedures.

Didn't see a certain university on our list? It could be that it isn't open for 2025 applications yet.

In the meantime, you can check out this post: application dates for 2025 and see when admissions for next year will be taking place at that particular institution. 

Conclusion

Application season is the most busy time of the year for students. As such, you should take it upon yourself to apply on time to not miss out on getting space at your desired university. 

All the best with your applications.