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Applying to university can feel confusing and overwhelming, especially if you are doing it for the first time.

Many students ask questions like:

• When should I apply?
• What documents do I need?
• What is APS?
• Can I apply online?
• What if my Matric results are not out yet?
• How many universities can I apply to?
• What happens after I apply?

This guide explains everything you need to know about applying to universities in South Africa, including:

• application requirements,
• APS scores,
• online applications,
• required documents,
• deadlines,
• NSFAS,
• acceptance processes,
• and common mistakes students make.

Whether you are currently in Grade 12, taking a gap year, or planning your future studies, this guide will help you understand how the university application process works.

What Does Applying to University Mean?

Applying to university means officially submitting your information to a university so they can evaluate whether you qualify for a course or qualification.

Universities review:

• your school marks,
• APS score,
• subjects,
• supporting documents,
• and programme requirements

before deciding whether to offer you admission.

You normally apply:

• during Grade 12,
• or after completing Matric.

When Should You Apply to Universities?

One of the biggest mistakes students make is applying too late.

Most South African universities open applications:

between March and June each year

for the following academic year.

For example:

• 2026 applications may open during 2025.

Many universities close applications before final Matric exams are even written.

This means:

you should NOT wait for final Matric results before applying.

Why Early Applications Matter

Applying early improves your chances because:

• some programmes fill quickly,
• residence spaces become limited,
• and competitive courses close early.

Courses like:

• Medicine,
• Law,
• Accounting,
• Engineering,
• and Nursing

often receive thousands of applications.

Applying late can result in:

• missed deadlines,
• limited spaces,
• or complete rejection.

What Do Universities Look At?

Universities mainly evaluate:

• your Grade 11 marks,
• Grade 12 term results,
• APS score,
• required subjects,
• and supporting documents.

If you are currently in Grade 12:
your Grade 11 final results are extremely important because universities use them for provisional admission decisions.

What Is APS?

APS stands for:

Admission Point Score.

Universities convert your school marks into points.

Your total APS helps determine whether you qualify for certain programmes.

Higher-demand programmes require higher APS scores.

Example of APS Requirements

Different programmes require different APS levels.

Examples:

• Higher Certificate → lower APS
• Diploma → medium APS
• Degree → higher APS
• Medicine/Law/Engineering → very high APS

Some universities also have:

• minimum subject requirements,
• language requirements,
• and Mathematics requirements.

Step 1 — Choose Your Career Path

Before applying, think carefully about:

• what career interests you,
• your strengths,
• subjects,
• and long-term goals.

Avoid choosing courses simply because:

• friends are applying,
• family pressures you,
• or the qualification sounds impressive.

Research:

• salaries,
• job opportunities,
• course difficulty,
• and industry demand.

Step 2 — Research Universities

Different universities specialise in different fields.

Research:

• courses offered,
• admission requirements,
• APS scores,
• fees,
• residence options,
• and campus locations.

South Africa has:

• traditional universities,
• universities of technology,
• and comprehensive universities.

Each offers different learning styles and opportunities.

Popular South African Universities

Some well-known universities include:

• University of Cape Town
• University of Pretoria
• University of Johannesburg
• University of the Witwatersrand
• Tshwane University of Technology
• Durban University of Technology

Step 3 — Check Admission Requirements

Every course has different requirements.

Check:

• APS requirements,
• required subjects,
• minimum marks,
• and qualification criteria.

Examples:

• Engineering → Mathematics + Physical Science
• Accounting → Mathematics
• Nursing → Life Sciences
• Law → strong language subjects

Never assume you qualify without checking requirements properly.

Step 4 — Prepare Required Documents

Most universities require:

• Certified copy of ID
• Grade 11 final results
• Latest Grade 12 results
• Proof of residence
• Parent/guardian details
• Application fee proof (if applicable)

Some programmes may also require:

• portfolios,
• auditions,
• interviews,
• or selection tests.

Step 5 — Apply Online

Most South African universities now use:

online application systems.

You create an account on the university website and upload your documents electronically.

Online applications usually require:

• personal details,
• academic information,
• contact information,
• and programme choices.

Always double-check information before submitting.

Step 6 — Pay Application Fees (If Required)

Some universities charge application fees.

These fees vary depending on:

• institution,
• programme,
• and whether you are applying online or manually.

Some universities:

• waive fees,
• or offer free online applications.

Always keep proof of payment.

Step 7 — Submit Your Application

After uploading documents and completing forms:

• review everything carefully,
• then submit your application.

You should receive:

• a student number,
• confirmation email,
• or SMS acknowledgement.

Keep these safely because you may need them later.

Step 8 — Track Your Application Status

After applying, universities normally review applications over several months.

Your application may show statuses like:

• Pending
• Provisionally Accepted
• Awaiting Results
• Admitted
• Rejected

Continue checking your application portal regularly.

What Is Provisional Acceptance?

If you are still in Grade 12:
universities may offer:

provisional acceptance.

This means:

• you qualify based on current marks,
• but final admission depends on final Matric results.

If final results drop below requirements:
the offer may be withdrawn.

What Happens After Matric Results Are Released?

Once Matric results are available:
universities re-evaluate applications using final marks.

Successful students may then receive:

• final acceptance,
• residence offers,
• or registration instructions.

What If You Are Rejected?

Rejection is common and does NOT mean your future is over.

Many students:

• rewrite subjects,
• apply at other institutions,
• study Higher Certificates,
• attend TVET colleges,
• or apply again later.

Alternative pathways can still lead to successful careers.

You can read this guide on: how to deal with rejection

What Is NSFAS?

National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) helps eligible students pay for:

• tuition,
• accommodation,
• meals,
• and study-related costs.

NSFAS applications are separate from university applications.

You usually apply through the NSFAS website during the application period.

Common University Application Mistakes

Many students make mistakes such as:

• applying too late,
• uploading incorrect documents,
• choosing wrong programmes,
• ignoring APS requirements,
• using wrong contact details,
• or not tracking application status.

Always:

• read instructions carefully,
• and verify information before submitting.

Can You Apply to Multiple Universities?

Yes.

In fact:

you SHOULD apply to multiple universities.

This improves your chances of admission.

Many students apply to:

• 3–6 universities,
• or multiple programmes.

Having backup options is extremely important. You can also consider colleges. check this guide to understand: The difference between Universities & Colleges

What Is Residence?

University residence refers to student accommodation provided by universities.

Residence spaces are limited and highly competitive.

Students who need accommodation should:

• apply early,
• and indicate residence interest during applications.

Important Tips for Students

Apply Early

Do not wait for deadlines.

Use a Professional Email

Avoid:

• funny usernames,
• slang,
• or unprofessional email addresses.

Keep Copies of Everything

Save:

• confirmations,
• receipts,
• and student numbers.

Check Emails Regularly

Universities communicate important updates through:

• email,
• SMS,
• and portals.

Research Careers Carefully

Do not blindly follow trends.

Think long-term.

Why University Applications Matter

University applications can shape:

• your education,
• career opportunities,
• income potential,
• and future growth.

The earlier you understand the process, the more confident and prepared you become.

Many successful professionals started exactly where you are now:

• confused,
• uncertain,
• and trying to understand the next step.

Thabang Maimela’s Tip

Thabang Maimela( Editor )

I am Thabang Maimela, Founder and Editor of CareersPursuit, a platform dedicated to connecting job seekers with real opportunities across South Africa and beyond. With a strong focus on learnerships, apprenticeships, and entry-level jobs, my mission is to empower individuals by providing reliable, up-to-date career information that helps them take the next step toward employment and growth.