What Universities are Still Open for 2025 Applications – A Detailed Guide

The application process for universities in South Africa is often a time-sensitive and critical part of a student’s journey. While many institutions close their application windows in the latter half of the year, there are still opportunities for students to apply for 2025 admission to various universities across the country. For students who may have missed the initial application deadlines or are looking to explore different options, knowing which universities are still open for applications can make a significant difference.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on which South African universities are still accepting applications for 2025, the importance of applying on time, and tips on how to boost your chances of getting into university. This guide will be especially useful for prospective students who want to pursue their higher education without unnecessary delays.

Importance of Applying Early to University

Before diving into the list of universities that are still accepting applications, let’s quickly highlight why applying early is essential:

1. Maximized Opportunities for Funding: Many bursaries, scholarships, and financial aid options have deadlines that align with university application periods. Early applications often give you access to these opportunities, ensuring you don’t miss out on vital financial support.
2. Increased Chances of Acceptance: Popular programs tend to fill up quickly. By applying early, you increase your chances of being admitted into your desired course. This is especially true for fields such as medicine, engineering, and law, where competition is fierce.
3. Time to Prepare: Once you’re accepted, early application gives you more time to prepare for the move to campus, securing accommodation, and organizing any necessary paperwork for study permits or visas (for international students).
4. Avoiding the Rush: By applying early, you avoid the stress and last-minute rush that typically happens as deadlines approach. The earlier you submit your application, the sooner you can relax and wait for results.

Which South African Universities Are Still Open for 2025 Applications?

Many universities in South Africa have strict application deadlines, but some institutions still offer opportunities for late applications in early 2025. The list of universities that are still accepting applications for 2025 may change, so it’s important to verify the exact deadlines by visiting the official websites of the universities you’re interested in. Here’s a look at some of the universities that are commonly known to accept late applications, along with the courses and programs they may still be offering:

1. University of Johannesburg (UJ)

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is known for its diverse academic programs and modern campus. UJ typically allows late applications for various undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Although most applications close early in the year, UJ sometimes reopens applications for specific faculties and courses.

Programs Still Open:

• Bachelor of Education (BEd)
• BA (General)
• BSc in Information Technology
• BCom in Management

How to Apply: Visit the University of Johannesburg’s official website for detailed information on specific programs and application dates.

2. University of Cape Town (UCT)

UCT, as one of South Africa’s top universities, has highly competitive programs, and most applications close in September. However, for some specific courses and certain departments, there are provisions for late applications. UCT sometimes reopens applications for select postgraduate programs as well.

Programs Still Open:

• Postgraduate Studies (various fields, including Law, Engineering, and Business)
• BSc (Hons)

How to Apply: You can check the UCT application portal for updates on late application opportunities.

3. University of Pretoria (UP)

The University of Pretoria (UP) is a renowned institution that often allows late applications for certain courses, especially for postgraduate degrees. However, undergraduate applications generally close in September or October. UP is known for offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Programs Still Open:

• Postgraduate Degrees (Masters, Honours, and Doctorate programs)
• BSc and BCom programs (depending on faculty availability)

How to Apply: Visit the University of Pretoria website for more information and updates on deadlines for late applications.

4. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)

Wits University is another prestigious institution in South Africa, known for its high academic standards. While most undergraduate courses have application deadlines in mid-2024, Wits sometimes opens up a second round of applications for some programs and faculties in early 2025, particularly for postgraduate courses.

Programs Still Open:

• Postgraduate Programs (especially in fields such as engineering, health sciences, and business)
• Late Application for Certain Undergraduate Programs (if space is available in faculties)

How to Apply: Students can check the Wits University portal for available courses and late application information.

5. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)

Nelson Mandela University (NMU), located in Port Elizabeth, is one of the institutions that may still accept late applications for specific undergraduate and postgraduate courses in 2025. NMU has a strong focus on practical skills and hands-on training, which makes it an attractive choice for many students.

Programs Still Open:

• Bachelor of Education (BEd)
• BCom Programs
• Engineering and Health Sciences Programs

How to Apply: Visit the Nelson Mandela University website for further details.

6. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)

Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) is a prominent institution that offers a wide range of technical and vocational programs. While applications for undergraduate degrees close early, CPUT often reopens applications for certain programs, especially for the second semester or late intakes.

Programs Still Open:

• National Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas
• Postgraduate Programs

How to Apply: To apply or check the status of late applications, visit the CPUT application page.

7. University of the Western Cape (UWC)

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is another major institution that often reopens applications in specific cases, including for postgraduate courses or for late intakes into certain undergraduate programs.

Programs Still Open:

• Postgraduate Programs
• BA and BSc Programs (depending on the faculty)

How to Apply: For more details, visit the UWC website.

8. Durban University of Technology (DUT)

Durban University of Technology (DUT) is an institution that offers a variety of degree programs, particularly in engineering, health sciences, and business. DUT typically has a late application period for programs that may have space available.

Programs Still Open:

• National Diplomas and BTech programs
• Postgraduate Diplomas

How to Apply: Visit the DUT website for specific details on late applications.

9. Central University of Technology (CUT)

The Central University of Technology (CUT) in Free State is an institution that may accept late applications for some courses, particularly for their technical and engineering programs.

Programs Still Open:

• Engineering and Technology Programs
• Health and Environmental Sciences

How to Apply: You can apply for available programs on the CUT application portal.

Tips for Late Applicants

If you’re considering applying to a university for 2025 after the initial deadlines have passed, here are some tips to improve your chances of success:

1. Check the Website Regularly: Universities often update their websites with information about late application periods. It’s essential to stay updated on any new developments or deadlines.
2. Submit All Required Documents: Late applications are sometimes more competitive due to fewer available spaces. Ensure that you have all your required documents ready and submit them as soon as possible.
3. Consider Postgraduate Opportunities: If you missed the undergraduate deadlines, many universities still offer late applications for postgraduate programs such as Masters or PhD studies.
4. Be Prepared for Limited Space: Late applicants often face stiff competition for available spots, and some popular programs may already be full. Apply for programs with fewer applicants or for those that typically have late intakes.
5. Contact the Admissions Office: Don’t hesitate to reach out to the university’s admissions office for clarification on late applications. They can give you more precise information about available programs and assist you with the application process.

While many South African universities have strict deadlines for applications, there are still options for prospective students in 2025. Whether you missed the initial deadlines or you’re just considering your options, several universities offer late applications for various programs.

It’s important to stay proactive, double-check application portals, and ensure that you meet the specific requirements for late applicants. By applying to the universities listed above or others that may have extended deadlines, you can still secure a spot in the university of your choice for 2025.

For more detailed information about late applications, always refer to the specific university’s application portal to avoid any confusion.