15 Universities Open for 2027 Applications in South Africa

It’s that time of the academic year as universities open for 2027 applications in South Africa. Most universities are opening their virtual doors to students interested in their undergraduate or postgraduate programmes.

Applying early increases your chances of acceptance at your desired institutions. As such, we’ve created a clear breakdown of which universities are open for 2027 applications. 

Each listing provides you with relevant information related to the universities in South Africa. Ensuring that you have the correct information for your applications.

Read the article below to find out more.

University of Johannesburg (UJ)

The University of Johannesburg offers a modern, career-focused education across four campuses in Gauteng. It is known for accessibility, innovation, and strong industry alignment. UJ is a good option for students looking for practical qualifications and flexible entry routes. 

Applications fill up quickly in popular programmes, so send yours on time.

Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng
Number of Campuses: 4
Opening date: 1 April 2026
Closing date: 31 October 2026
Application fee: Free

Apply here for UJ Application 2027 

University of Witwatersrand (Wits)

The University of the Witwatersrand is globally ranked and known for producing highly employable graduates in medicine, law, and engineering. Its central Johannesburg location offers strong industry exposure but comes with a fast-paced urban environment.

Depending on your chosen programme, expect strict entry requirements.

Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng
Number of Campuses: 7
Opening date: March 2026
Closing date: 30 June 2026 & 30 September 2026
Application fee: R100

Apply here for Wits 2027 Application

You may also like

• Engineering Bursary: Sappi Financial Aid 2027.

University of Pretoria (UP)

Become a Tukkie by applying to the University of Pretoria for 2027. It holds a strong academic reputation alongside top institutions like Wits, and competition for admission is high.

Early applications are essential if you want better admission chances. Students from households earning R150 000 or less per year, may qualify for an application fee waiver, provided valid proof is submitted.

Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng
Number of Campuses: 7
Opening date: 1 April 2026
Closing date: 30 June  2026
Application fee: R300 non-refundable fee

Apply here for UP 2027 Application 

Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)

Another institution among the universities open for 2027 applications is Tshwane University of Technology.

TUT is a popular choice for diplomas and applied degrees. It’s one of the largest universities of technology in South Africa with 9 campuses spanning across different provinces.

Graduates from TUT are job ready for technical fields. It's an excellent choice if you're looking for theory + practical learning.

Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng
Number of Campuses: 9
Opening date: 1 April 2026
Closing date: 30 June  2026
Application fee: R240 non-refundable fee

Apply here for TUT 2027 Application

 
North West University (NWU)

North West university may have changed its opening dates to June 2026. However, that doesn't mean it's not part of the universities open for 2027 applications.

Simply mark the date on your calendar and browse their brochure for available 2027 undergraduate courses. The University of North West boasts its fierce sports passion and vibrant life on campus. It's big on diversity and creating memorable experiences for students.

Also, NWU offers several courses via distance learning, you can learn which degrees/ diplomas are included: NWU Distance Learning Programmes.

Location: North West
Number of Campuses: 3
Opening date: 1 June 2026
Closing date: The NWU 2027 applications closing date is yet to be announced by the admission department.
Application fee: Free for students in SA, and R600 for international students.

Apply here for NWU 2027 Application 

Sefako Makgatho University (SMU)

Study medicine at the Sefako Magatho Health Sciences university in 2027. It's the university to be in if human anatomy is something you're passionate about. SMU is known for its tight-knit personality and mentoring first year students, allowing a smooth transition into their new-normal.

Since it's the only university in South Africa specializing in health sciences, the competition may be tight. Excelling in your matric year pushes you ahead of the line.

Location: Pretoria, Gauteng 
Number of Campuses: 1
Opening date: 1 April 2026
Closing date: 31 July 2026 for undergraduate programmes and 31 August 2026 for postgraduate programmes.
Application fee: R300,  non-refundable.

Apply here for SMU 2027 Application

Also look: Medicine Bursary - SMARC Bursary 2026

University of South Africa (UNISA)

The University of South Africa runs on distance learning, meaning your classroom is wherever you want it to be. UNISA offers flexibility and affordability, but things work if you can stay disciplined without a traditional campus structure. And learn on your own.

If you're not keen on being far from home, UNISA's long distance programmes are what you need.

Location: Pretoria, Gauteng 
Number of Campuses: 4 with various centres in different provinces, plus other facilities to assist enrolled students.
Opening date:  Usually Mid August 2026
Closing date: Usually Mid October 2026
Application fee: R150,  non-refundable.

Apply here for UNISA 2027 Application

University of Free State (UFS)

UFS is a solid option for students seeking both academic and campus life balance. The University of the Free State is based in Bloemfontein and offers a student-friendly academic environment.

It's one of the oldest universities in South Africa and has been operating for 121 years. UFS has 7 faculties and is a source of adventure for students.

Location: Bloemfontein, Free State
Number of Campuses: 3
Opening date: 1 April 2026
Closing date: 31 May, 31 July, 31 August, and 30 September 2026
Application fee: Free.

Apply here for UFS 2027 Application

University of the Western Cape (UWC)

UWC offers great campus life for students looking for an institution with good campus vibes. Getting in isn’t that hard, but having outstanding marks is important. Situated in the mother city, UWC is counted among the institutions leading the African continent.

Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
Number of Campuses: 2
Opening date: 1 April 2026
Closing date: 30 September 2026
Application fee: Free

Apply here for UWC 2027 Application

If you plan on studying at UWC, here some bursaries to consider where applicable:

• UWC Financial Assistance for 2026
• UWC Erika Theron Trust Scholarship 2026
• Masters Bursary 2026: UWC Ada & Bertie Levenstein Funding

University of Cape Town (UCT)

The University of Cape Town is Africa’s highest-ranked university, it has global recognition and graduate outcomes. Its mountain-side campus offers a relatively safe, structured environment with high academic pressure and international opportunities for graduates.

Established in 1829, UCT has exciting offers for students wanting to pursue postgraduate studies with them.

Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
Number of Campuses: 6
Opening date: 1 April 2026
Closing date: 30 September 2026
Application fee: R100 SADC, R300 outside of the SADC

Apply here for UCT 2027 Application

Stellenbosch University (SU)

Another university open for 2027 applications is Stellenbosch University, respected for its research output and graduate employability, the university has high standards in business, science, and engineering. 

Nestled in a town with amazing nature, the University of Stellenbosch has high academic standards and great research resources.

The institution is having an open day on the 18 of April 2026  if you're looking to see things at face value.  

Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
Number of Campuses: 5
Opening date: 1 April 2026
Closing date: 31 July 2026
Application fee: R100

Apply here for University of Stellenbosch 2027 application

Nelson Mandela University (NMU)

The Nelson Mandela University is located in Gqeberha and has a coastal campus living with modern facilities. It is known for  its excellence in Environmental Sciences, Engineering, and Education.

NMU has students from 34 countries studying on their campuses. Making it big on multiculturalism.

Location: Gqeberha, Eastern Cape
Number of Campuses: 7
Opening date: 13 April 2026
Closing date: 30 June 2026, 03 August 2026, & 30 September 2026
Application fee: Free for students in South Africa, R500 for international students

Apply here for NMU 2027 application

Durban University of Technology (DUT)

Being a university of technology, DUT focuses on hands-on learning and also provides good employment rates. 

Students can expect exposure to coastal life, different activities, and academic support in the DUT community.

To be considered at the Durban University of Technology, you need to apply using CAO. The Central Applications Office uses one application form for all the universities in KZN. You don't have to apply to each university directly.

You can check your application status via their platform to know where you've been accepted.

Location: Durban, KwaZulu Natal
Number of Campuses: 7
Opening date: 1 March 2026
Closing date: 30 September 2026
Application fee: R250 via CAO

Apply here for DUT 2027 application

University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN)

UKZN is second last on the list of universities open for 2027 applications.

The university's campuses span urban and semi-rural areas, offering a mixed student environment with varying safety conditions. It has well-known programmes in health sciences and education.

Their first-year meet and greet initiative brings together first years from UKZNs 5 campuses at one gathering. This is to create familiarity and ease for new students.

If you're interested in the institution, your UKZN online application should be made using CAO.

Location: Durban, KwaZulu Natal
Number of Campuses: 5
Opening date: 1 March 2026
Closing date: 30 September 2026
Application fee: R250 via CAO

Apply here for UKZN 2027 application

Rhodes University (RU)

Rhodes University is a small, historic university based in Makhanda. It is known for academic excellence in Journalism, Humanities, and Law.

Rhodes gives learners a close-knit student environment with strong academic support. Entry is selective due to limited intake.

If you want to experience this environment in person, Rhodes will host an open day for prospective students on the 9th of May 2026.

Location: Makhanda, Eastern Cape
Number of Campuses: 1
Opening date: 1 April 2026
Closing date: 30 September 2026
Application fee: R100

Apply here for Rhodes University 2027 application

Also look: Medicine Bursary - SMARC Bursary

South Africa roughly has 25 universities. Some of them are yet to open for 2027 applications or dates haven't been released. 

The institutions are as follows:

Please Note: Application dates are subject to change as universities publish them online on respective platforms.

Don't let your 2027 preparations be incomplete without applying for funding. Securing a bursary is important if you're low on funds and need financial aid.

Browse through our bursary list to find ones that match your studies: Bursaries in South Africa 2026/2027.

Conclusion

If you’re wondering which universities are open for 2027 applications, this list gives you a clear starting point. Applying early is key, especially for competitive programmes that close before others.

Start preparing your documents now, and make sure you pay the application fee (if required) and upload proof of payment correctly. 

If you’re still in Grade 12, you can apply using your June results, so there’s no need to wait until completing matric. 

Lastly, research each university, its courses, and accommodation before making a decision.