Top Universities Still Open for Applications 2027

Starting university in 2027 and worried you might have missed the deadline? You are not alone. Many South African universities close their applications months in advance, but a few remain open.

This guide lists the South African universities still open for the 2027 academic cycle, those that do not accept late applications, and others with flexible policies.

Universities Open for Applications 2027

Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)

Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) uses the Central Applications Office (CAO) for all applications. This simplifies the process by using one form and one fee for multiple programs.

• Regular Applications: Close on September 30, 2026.
• Late Applications: Typically accepted until November 30, 2026, although a late fee will apply.
• Contact MUT:
• Call: 031 907 7111
• Email: info@mut.ac.za

Nelson Mandela University (NMU)

Nelson Mandela University (NMU) accepts late applications for most programs if space is available. Note that competitive courses like Medicine and Pharmacy close much earlier.

• Early Applications: Close on August 3, 2026.
• Late Applications: Close on September 30, 2026 (excluding MBChB, BPharm, and BRad).
• Contact NMU:
• Call: 041 504 1111
• Email: info@mandela.ac.za

Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)

Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) typically accepts applications until late September. Late enquiries are handled based on remaining capacity in specific courses.

• General Closing Date: September 30, 2026.
• Late Enquiry: If spaces remain, a late enquiry system often opens in January 2027.
• Contact TUT:
• Call: 086 110 2421
• Email: general@tut.ac.za

University of Johannesburg (UJ)

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) maintains strict initial deadlines but uses a digital system for latecomers.

• Closing Date: September 30, 2026.
• UJ Mobi Late Enquiry System: This system allows you to check for available space in January 2027. No walk-ins are permitted.
• Contact UJ:
• Call: 011 559 4555
• Website: www.uj.ac.za

University of the Western Cape (UWC)

UWC is a popular choice for Arts, Education, and Law.

• Closing Date: September 30, 2026 for all undergraduate programs.
• Contact UWC:
• Call: 021 959 3900
• Email: admissions@uwc.ac.za

Universities That Generally Do Not Accept Late Applications

These institutions are highly competitive and usually fill all seats during the standard application window.

Institutions with Specialized Deadlines

The following institutions have varying dates depending on the faculty:

• University of Pretoria (UP): Applications open April 1, 2026. Closing dates vary, but most competitive programs close by June 30, 2026.
• North-West University (NWU): Generally closes all applications by September 30, 2026.
• Unisa: Undergraduate applications for 2027 are expected to close in early October 2026.

What If You Miss All Deadlines?

If you miss the university window, consider these alternatives:

1. TVET Colleges: Often have multiple registration periods throughout the year (January, May, and September).
2. Private Higher Education: Many private universities accept applications as late as January 2027 if space is available.
3. CACH (Central Applications Clearing House): This government service opens in early 2027 to help students who have not found a placement.

Fund Your Studies in 2027

If financial constraints are holding you back, ensure you apply for NSFAS early. Applications for 2027 funding typically open in the latter half of 2026. You can also visit local scholarship portals for updated bursary information to cover tuition and accommodation.

Contact Department of Higher Education:

• Phone: 0800 87 2222
• Physical Address: 123 Francis Baard Street, Pretoria