Sol Plaatje University (SPU) in Kimberley, Northern Cape, will soon open its online application portal for the 2026 academic year. If you’re planning to study at SPU, this guide covers everything you need to know about the application process, admission requirements, courses, funding, and accommodation.

About Sol Plaatje University

Established in 2014, Sol Plaatje University is one of South Africa’s youngest universities. It has quickly grown into a reputable institution that offers innovative, high-quality education designed to meet both national and international needs.

Sol Plaatje University 2026 Online Application Dates

For the 2026 academic year:

  • Opening date: April 2025
  • Closing date: 31 October 2025

Late applications are not guaranteed, so apply as early as possible.

Courses Offered at SPU for 2026

SPU offers qualifications across four main faculties:

Faculty of Humanities

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA)
  • Higher Certificate in Heritage Studies
  • Higher Certificate in Court Interpreting

Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences

  • Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
  • BCom in Accounting
  • BCom in Economics
  • Diploma in Retail Business Management
  • Advanced Diploma in Management

Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences

  • Bachelor of Science (BSc) – Mathematical & Computer Sciences, Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences
  • BSc in Data Science
  • Diploma in ICT in Applications Development
  • Advanced Diploma in ICT in Applications Development

Faculty of Education

  • Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) – Foundation, Intermediate, Senior & FET Phase
  • Advanced Diploma in School Leadership and Management
  • Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

Admission Requirements

General minimum requirements for admission at SPU:

  • Bachelor’s Degrees: NSC pass with Bachelor’s endorsement
  • Diplomas: NSC pass with Diploma endorsement
  • Higher Certificates: NSC pass with Higher Certificate endorsement
  • Language requirement: English HL at Level 4 or English FAL at Level 5

Each programme may have additional requirements, so check the official SPU prospectus before applying.

Required Documents for SPU Applications

When completing your Sol Plaatje University online application, prepare the following:

  • Certified copy of your NSC/matric certificate or equivalent qualification
  • Certified copy of your ID or passport
  • Proof of payment of the application fee (if applicable)
  • Additional documents such as portfolios, transcripts, or recommendation letters (depending on the course)

Make sure documents are clear and uploaded correctly to avoid delays.

Step-by-Step: Sol Plaatje University Online Application 2026

  1. Go to the SPU online application portal.
  2. Click “Click here to apply.”
  3. Accept the application rules and continue.
  4. Enter your personal information and click Next.
  5. Capture your results and subjects.
  6. Enter your school/institution details.
  7. Select up to two programmes of your choice.
  8. Review your application and confirm.
  9. Create a 5-digit PIN, accept the terms, and submit.
  10. Upload all required documents.
  11. Once uploaded, click Complete Upload.
  12. Save the confirmation page.

SPU reviews applications based on academic merit and available space. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance.

Financial Aid and Scholarships at SPU

Students can apply for different funding opportunities, including:

  • NSFAS – for financially disadvantaged students (www.nsfas.org.za)
  • Funza Lushaka Bursary – for Bachelor of Education students (www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za)
  • Other bursaries – offered by SETAs, provincial governments, banks, and private companies

Standard funding documents include:

  • ID document
  • Matric certificate
  • Latest academic transcript
  • Proof of household income (pay slips, affidavits, or SASSA letter)
  • Parents’/guardians’ IDs
  • Death certificates (if applicable)
  • Testimonial or motivational letter

For bursary queries, contact:

Accommodation at Sol Plaatje University

SPU offers modern residences on campus, but space is limited. Students can also choose private off-campus housing.

How to Apply for Accommodation

  • Indicate your preference during the online application.
  • Submit a separate residence application.
  • Apply early to secure space.

Student Support Services at SPU

SPU provides:

  • Academic support (tutoring, writing centres)
  • Career services (guidance and resources)
  • Counseling services (mental health and wellness support)

For application queries: