Applying to university is one of the most important steps in any student’s academic journey. But what happens if you miss the initial deadline? Thankfully, many South African universities understand that life doesn’t always go as planned.
Whether due to delayed matric results, financial setbacks, or a change in career goals, late applications are often a second chance. If you’re still hoping to study in 2025, you’re in luck; several universities in South Africa are still accepting late applications.
This guide covers all the major public universities and universities of technology that are open for late applications in 2025, including deadlines, application fees, and special notes.
Public Universities Accepting Late Applications in 2025
These universities have extended application windows for most programmes, with deadlines stretching as late as October 2025. Whether you’re pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies, here are your best options:
1. University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- Application Deadline: 30 September 2025
- Application Fee: Free for South African applicants
Why Choose UWC:
- UWC is renowned for its commitment to social justice and transformation. Located in Bellville, Cape Town, it offers strong programs in Law, Education, Arts, and Community Health. The fact that it allows free applications makes it especially attractive for financially constrained students.
2. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- Application Deadline: 31 October 2025
- Application Fee: None for online submissions
Why Choose UJ:
- UJ is one of the top-performing universities in South Africa, with a modern campus and wide course offerings in Engineering, Business, Humanities, and Sciences. The university has a user-friendly online system, making it easy to submit late applications before the deadline.
3. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- Late Applications Open Until: 30 September 2025
- Important Note: Certain health-related programmes like MBChB, Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm), and Bachelor of Radiography (BRad) closed on 30 June.
Why Choose NMU:
- Located in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), NMU has a strong focus on innovation and community development. The university’s flexible application system allows students to apply for a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
4. University of Cape Town (UCT)
- Undergraduate Applications: Closed on 31 July 2025
- Postgraduate/International Students: Applications open until 15 November 2025
Why Choose UCT:
- UCT is Africa’s top-ranked university, known for its excellence in research, Medicine, Law, and Commerce. While most undergraduate applications are now closed, there’s still time for postgraduate applicants and international students to apply.
5. University of Pretoria (UP)
- Undergraduate Applications: Closed on 30 June 2025
- Selected Faculties: Applications still open until 30 September 2025
- Important Note: Veterinary Science applications closed on 31 May
Why Choose UP:
- UP remains one of South Africa’s most prestigious institutions, with top-rated programs in Health Sciences, Engineering, and Natural Sciences. While most undergrad slots have closed, there may still be space in less competitive programmes.
6. University of Limpopo (UL)
- Application Deadline: Through September 2025
- Application Fee: Yes (amount depends on program)
Why Choose UL:
- Known for its focus on rural development and health sciences, UL offers accessible education for students across Limpopo and beyond. It’s ideal for aspiring teachers, health workers, and social scientists.
7. University of Fort Hare (UFH)
- Application Deadline: 30 September 2025 (both online and manual)
Why Choose UFH:
- A historic institution that educated some of Africa’s greatest leaders, including Nelson Mandela, UFH remains a pillar of academic excellence. It’s particularly strong in Humanities, Agriculture, and Law.
8. Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
- Application Deadline: 30 September to 31 October 2025, depending on faculty.
Why Choose WSU:
- With multiple campuses across the Eastern Cape, WSU offers a practical, career-focused approach to higher education. If you’re interested in the health, technology, or education fields, WSU is a great option with flexible deadlines.
Universities of Technology Accepting Late Applications in 2025
Universities of Technology are ideal for students interested in practical, career-driven education. They offer diplomas, degrees, and even postgraduate qualifications across a wide range of industries.
All the institutions below are currently accepting late applications until 30 September 2025.
1. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Application Deadline: 30 September 2025
Why Choose CPUT:
- CPUT is the only university of technology in the Western Cape, with strong offerings in Applied Sciences, Engineering, Design, and Business. Whether you’re seeking a diploma or an honours degree, there’s still time to apply.
2. Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- Application Deadline: 30 September 2025
Why Choose DUT:
- DUT is known for innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry alignment. Based in Durban and Pietermaritzburg, DUT is perfect for students seeking education that leads directly into employment or entrepreneurship.
3. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Application Deadline: End of September to October 2025
Why Choose TUT:
- As one of South Africa’s largest contact universities, TUT offers a diverse range of programs, from Engineering and ICT to Arts and Management. TUT’s flexible late application process allows many students to secure their place even after traditional deadlines have passed.
Late applications don’t mean missed opportunities. In fact, for thousands of South African students each year, they’re a lifeline. Whether you’re eyeing a research-focused university like UCT or a career-driven tech university like TUT, 2025 still holds many possibilities. From Cape Town to Limpopo, South Africa’s higher education landscape is full of open doors if you act now.
Still unsure where to start? Begin by visiting your preferred university’s admissions portal and checking programme-specific availability. And remember: late doesn’t mean too late, just make sure you don’t wait any longer.
What’s your take on this? We believe this article was helpful. If yes, don’t hesitate to share this information with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, and other Social Platforms.