Applying to a South African university for the first time is confusing — each institution has its own portal, its own closing dates, and its own APS calculation method. This guide brings it all together: when to apply, how to calculate your APS score, which universities to look at for your results, and how NSFAS fits into the picture.
When Do University Applications Open?
Most South African universities open 2027 undergraduate applications between April and June 2026. The closing dates vary significantly — some close as early as 30 June for high-demand programmes like Medicine and Engineering, while others keep their general applications open until 30 September or even October. The general rule is: apply as early as possible. Early applications receive more attention, and some programmes fill their spots before the official closing date through early offers.
| University | General Closing Date |
|---|---|
| University of Cape Town (UCT) | Typically 31 July |
| University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) | Typically 30 September |
| University of Pretoria (UP) | Typically 31 August |
| Stellenbosch University (SU) | Typically 30 June |
| University of Johannesburg (UJ) | Typically 30 September |
| UNISA | Rolling / October for 2027 |
Always verify closing dates directly on the university's official website — they can change year to year and programme-specific deadlines often differ from the general deadline.
Understanding Your APS Score
The APS (Admission Point Score) is a number calculated from your matric results that universities use to determine whether you meet the minimum requirements for a programme. Each university calculates APS slightly differently, but the most common method converts your percentage mark in each subject into a point value from 1 to 7, and then adds up the points across your best subjects (usually 6 or 7 subjects depending on the university).
| Percentage | APS Points |
|---|---|
| 90 – 100% | 7 |
| 80 – 89% | 6 |
| 70 – 79% | 5 |
| 60 – 69% | 4 |
| 50 – 59% | 3 |
| 40 – 49% | 2 |
| 30 – 39% | 1 |
An APS of 27 and above typically qualifies for a Bachelor's programme at most universities. An APS of 20 to 26 qualifies for a Diploma programme. An APS of 15 to 19 qualifies for a Certificate or Higher Certificate programme. Life Orientation counts for half value at most universities — check each institution's specific rules.
The CAO — Central Applications Office
The Central Applications Office (cao.ac.za) allows you to apply to multiple South African universities and TVET colleges through a single platform for a single fee. It is the most efficient way to apply to several institutions simultaneously. Not all universities participate — UCT and Wits have their own direct application systems — but the majority of South African universities are on the CAO.
NSFAS and Your University Application
Apply for NSFAS at the same time as you apply to universities — the two processes are parallel, not sequential. You do not need to wait for a university acceptance before applying to NSFAS. Submit your NSFAS application through myNSFAS.nsfas.org.za during the NSFAS application window (typically August to January). If you are accepted by a university, NSFAS verifies your registration directly with the institution.
💡 Apply to multiple universities: Apply to at least three institutions at different selectivity levels — one that is a stretch given your results, one that is a solid match, and one where your APS comfortably exceeds the minimum. Having a back-up acceptance matters enormously if your final matric results differ from your forecast.
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