The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) is one of South Africa’s leading medical universities, known for producing top doctors and healthcare professionals. The matric requirements to study medicine at Wits are competitive, with entry based on strong academic results, National Benchmark Test (NBT) performance, and overall applicant ranking through the Composite Index (CI) system.
Minimum Matric Requirements for Medicine at Wits
To be considered for admission into the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBCh) degree, applicants must meet the National Senior Certificate (NSC) requirements and achieve specific subject levels. Meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission, as selection depends on the availability of spaces and overall performance.
| Subject | Minimum Level Required |
|---|---|
| English (Home Language or First Additional Language) | Level 5 (60–69%) |
| Mathematics | Level 5 (60–69%) |
| Life Sciences and/or Physical Sciences | Level 5 (60–69%) |
Applicants must also obtain a Bachelor’s Degree Pass (Matric exemption) and meet the Faculty of Health Sciences’ composite selection score.
How Wits Selects Students for Medicine
The Faculty of Health Sciences uses a Composite Index (CI) to rank applicants. This system combines academic results and National Benchmark Test scores to ensure a fair, performance-based selection process.
| Component | Weighting |
|---|---|
| Average of five key matric subjects (English, Mathematics, best of Life Sciences or Physical Sciences, plus two other best subjects) | 60% |
| Average of National Benchmark Test (NBT) results | 40% |
Important:
Only the first attempt of the NBT written in the most recent year is accepted. Online NBT results are not considered — applicants must write the test in person at a pencil-and-paper session.
When to Write the NBT for Wits Medicine
Applicants should write the NBT by 18 August of the application year. The results remain valid for three years. When applying to Wits, ensure your ID number matches the one used during NBT registration to avoid delays in retrieving your scores.
For more information and test bookings, visit www.nbt.ac.za.
Admission Pathways into Medicine at Wits
There are two main entry routes into the MBBCh programme:
| Entry Point | Who Can Apply |
|---|---|
| First-Year Entry | Current Grade 12 learners who meet all matric and NBT requirements. |
| Graduate Entry (GEMP) | Applicants who have completed a relevant bachelor’s degree and wish to enter the third year of the MBBCh programme. |
No transfer applications are accepted. Applicants currently enrolled at another tertiary institution must complete their current qualification before applying for the Graduate Entry Medical Programme (GEMP).
MBBCh Curriculum Overview
The Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBCh) at Wits runs over six years, combining medical science, clinical practice, and community health training.
| Year | Core Courses |
|---|---|
| 1st Year | Integrated Sciences for Medical Students, Foundations of Public Health, The Science and Art of Health and Learning, Person, Family and Community I |
| 2nd Year | Anatomy for Medical Practice, Human Physiology, Molecular Foundations of Health and Disease, Person, Family and Community II |
| 3rd Year | Integrated Basic Medical and Human Sciences A |
| 4th Year | Integrated Basic Medical and Human Sciences B |
| 5th Year | Integrated Clinical Medicine A |
| 6th Year | Integrated Clinical Medicine B |
Career Opportunities After Studying Medicine at Wits
Graduates with an MBBCh degree can pursue various medical specialisations across public and private healthcare sectors. Career fields include:
- Surgery
- Paediatrics
- Radiology
- Pathology
- Psychiatry
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology
- Family Medicine
- Community Health
- Anaesthesiology
- Forensic Medicine
- Internal Medicine
The degree also provides a foundation for research and academic careers in medical education and innovation.
How to Apply for Medicine at Wits
Applications are managed by the Student Enrolment Centre (SEnC). Follow these steps:
- Check the matric and subject requirements for the MBBCh degree.
- Write the National Benchmark Test (NBT) before the deadline.
- Submit your online application and supporting documents before 30 June.
- Pay the application fee and track your progress via the Wits Self-Service Portal.
- Wait for communication from the admissions consultant assigned to your application.
International applicants must meet equivalent qualifications and follow the Wits international admissions process.
Fees and Financial Aid
The average tuition fee for first-year medicine at Wits varies by course load. Students can estimate their total cost using the fees estimator on the Wits Self-Service Portal.
The Financial Aid and Scholarships Office (FASO) manages bursaries and scholarships, including:
- Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarships
- University Entrance Scholarships
- Equality Scholarships
- Sports Scholarships
- National Olympiad Awards
For NSFAS funding, visit the NSFAS website.
You can also explore external bursary opportunities on Bursary Forms.
Programme Summary
| Programme Code | MFA00 |
|---|---|
| Faculty | Health Sciences |
| School | Clinical Medicine |
| Qualification | Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBCh) |
| Duration | 6 years |
| Study Mode | Full-time |
| Closing Date | 30 June |
| Enquiries | ask.wits@wits.ac.za / 011 717 1888 |
Contact Wits University
Address:
1 Jan Smuts Avenue, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, 2000
General Enquiries:
Tel: +27 (0)11 717 1000
Admissions Enquiries:
Tel: +27 (0)11 717 1888
Email: ask.wits@wits.ac.za
Before you apply for any bursary, make sure you have a clear plan. Download our comprehensive Bursary Application Checklist to stay organized, submit your documents correctly, and increase your chances of success.
Bursary Application Checklist