Several universities have opened undergraduate and postgraduate 2025 applications for the coming academic year in South Africa.
So if you’re currently in matric, this is your chance to apply to study at a university or college, for a better career and future.
And the advantage of applying right now, is, you might get a response sooner to give you a chance to fix any detail, should they reject your application.
Let’s get started.
Admission Requirements
You’ll need to prepare the following documents, as most universities will require them to consider your application.
- ID for South African citizens
- Passport for international students
- National Senior Certificate if you have already completed matric
- Final Grade 11 results with school stamp/Mid-term Grade 12 results if you are still in Grade 12
- Academic record applies to current students at other institutions of higher learning
- HESA/ Universities South Africa (USAf) letter only if you are an international student. Apply to mb.usaf.ac.za for conditional exemption, foreign conditional exemption, or mature age conditional exemption
- Proof of payment
Remember to get your documents certified at your nearest police station.
Apply Today, Change Tomorrow!
Here’s a list of the universities taking online applications for 2025 below.
| University | Fees | Closing Date | Application |
| University of Limpopo (UL) | R200.00 (SA) and R750.00 (International) | 30 September 2024 | Apply online |
| University of Johannesburg (UJ) | R200.00 | 31 October 2024 | Apply online |
| Stellenbosch University | R100.00 | 30 September 2024 | Apply online |
| Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) | R240.00 | 30 August 2024 | Apply online |
| Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University | R300.00 | 31 July 2024 | Apply online |
| University of Cape Town (UCT) Typically, a minimum APS of 36 is needed, though it can differ by program. | R300.00 | 31 July 2024 | Apply online |
| Rhodes University Usually requires a minimum APS of 30, but specific requirements may vary by program. | R100.00 | 30 September 2024 | Apply online |
| North-West University (NWU) Generally, a minimum APS of 24 is required, but it varies by program. | R150.00 | 30 September 2024 | Apply online |
Work Hard, Aim High: Get a Good APS Score
A good Admission Point Score (APS) is crucial for university acceptance. Here’s how you can work towards achieving a high APS:
- Focus on Key Subjects: Prioritize your studies in subjects that are key to your desired program.
- Consistent Effort: Stay dedicated throughout the year, and don’t let your grades slip.
- Extra Help: Seek additional help from teachers or tutors if you’re struggling with any subjects.
- Study Groups: Join or form study groups to benefit from collective knowledge and support.
How to Calculate Your APS Score
Your APS score is calculated based on your final matric results. Here’s a simple guide to help you calculate it:
1. Identify Your Subjects: List all your matric subjects.
2. Assign Points: Use the following scale to assign points to each subject based on your final marks:
| Percentage | Points |
| 80% – 100% | 7 |
| 70% – 79% | 6 |
| 60% – 69% | 5 |
| 50% – 59% | 4 |
| 40% – 49% | 3 |
| 30% – 39% | 2 |
| 0% – 29% | 1 |
3. Calculate Total Points: Add up the points for your six best subjects (excluding Life Orientation, which is usually calculated separately).
For example, if your scores in six subjects are:
- Mathematics: 80% (7 points)
- Physical Sciences: 75% (6 points)
- English: 65% (5 points)
- Life Sciences: 70% (6 points)
- Sepedi: 85% (7 points)
- History: 60% (5 points)
Your total APS would be: 7 + 6 + 5 + 6 + 7 + 5 = 36
Conclusion
Applying to university is a critical step toward securing a successful future. Ensure you meet the minimum APS scores and have all necessary documents ready. Start your application process early to avoid any last-minute issues and increase your chances of acceptance.
Good luck with your applications!