Universities Open for Late Applications 2025 In South Africa
How painful an experience it is to miss the university deadlines for 2025! If you’re among those students, don’t worry—you’re not alone in South Africa. Many students miss their university application deadlines each year.
This article brings you great news. Our team has compiled a list of universities open for late applications for 2025, giving you and many other South African students a chance to apply. Many students, like you, often feel confused about course selection, and procrastination or lack of knowledge can lead to missing application deadlines. It’s not an easy situation, but we must learn to manage our time effectively in order to succeed—otherwise, we risk falling behind.
In this article, we’ve outlined 9 universities open for late applications for 2025 in South Africa. Read through the article carefully and apply for admission as soon as possible!
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5 Practical Options to Secure a Spot for University in 2025
- Keep an Eye Out for Late Applications: Always watch for any announcements from universities about “late applications” for specific courses. These might not be the courses you originally wanted, but if you find one, don’t be too picky. You can usually switch to your preferred course the following year (2026).
- Call the Faculty: Reach out to the faculties offering the courses you’re interested in at your top universities. Sometimes, students cancel their accepted spots, so there could be a chance for you to grab one.
- Look for Extended Courses: You could also consider applying for extended programs at your favorite university. These programs are competitive, but if you apply while doing one, your chances of getting accepted go up by 50%. I’ve seen it work for many students.
- Private Colleges: If you can’t get into a university, consider applying for the same courses at private colleges. Keep in mind, this option might be more expensive because NSFAS won’t fund it. But some private colleges offer more affordable fees.
- Take a Gap Year: If nothing else works, taking a gap year to improve your marks could be a good idea. Just make sure to apply as soon as university applications open in 2026.
Note on Popular Courses with Low to Average Entry Requirements
It’s important to note that courses with low to average entry requirements are often the first to fill up each year. These courses typically fall under BA degrees, rather than B.Com or BSc categories. Examples include BA Business Management, BA Human Resources, BA Public Relations, Logistics, Politics, BA Administration, BA Communications, and more.
List of Universities Open for Late Applications in 2025
Here’s an overview of the late application processes for various South African universities for the 2025 academic year:
If you missed the university application deadline for 2025, there are still some opportunities to apply late at several South African universities. Here’s a breakdown of each one:
1. University of Johannesburg (UJ):
UJ opens its late application window for a limited time after the regular applications close. For 2025, late applications will be open from mid-January until the end of January. Keep an eye out for their official announcement to confirm the dates.
2. University of Pretoria (UP):
UP doesn’t have a formal late application process, but you can reach out directly to their admissions office at ssc@up.ac.za or call 012 420 3111 for assistance.
3. University of the Western Cape (UWC):
Generally, UWC doesn’t accept late applications. However, it’s worth trying to contact them at +27 21 959 3900/01 or email admissions@uwc.ac.za to see if there’s any chance of applying late.
4. University of the Free State (UFS):
While UFS doesn’t officially offer late applications, you can try reaching them via WhatsApp at 0872406370, or call +27 51 401 3000, or email applications@ufs.ac.za to inquire further.
5. Vaal University of Technology (VUT):
VUT typically opens its late application window from January 16 to 20 each year. You can check their official page for updates or contact them at 0800 357 635 / 0860 357 635 for more details.
6. Walter Sisulu University (WSU):
WSU usually accepts late applications from January 20 until March. Visit their website for the latest updates on 2025 late application openings.
7. Central University of Technology (CUT):
CUT accepts late applications depending on available spaces in specific programs. For the 2025 late applications, contact them at +27 (0)57 910 3500 for guidance.
8. University of South Africa (Unisa):
Unisa will reopen applications for selected undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral qualifications for 2025 from January 13 to 27. Postgraduate applications are already open and will close on January 31. Master’s and doctoral applications also opened on November 23, 2024, and will close on January 31, 2025. Be sure to apply before these deadlines to ensure you don’t miss out. For late applications at University of South Africa (Unisa), you can contact them directly through the following details: Phone: +27 12 429 0007 and Email: applications@unisa.ac.za
9. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT):
TUT often reopens its late application system after regular applications close, typically after matric results are released in early January. You can reach them at 086 110 2421 or email general@tut.ac.za for more information.
Universities Open for Late Applications with No Application Fee for 2025
If you missed the university application deadline for 2025, there are still some options in South Africa where you can apply late without paying an application fee. For example, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) allows late applications for various courses, and they don’t charge an application fee.
The University of the Free State (UFS) is another option, offering late applications without any fees. Similarly, Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley and Nelson Mandela University (NMU) both accept late applications without charging an application fee. Lastly, Walter Sisulu University (WSU) is also accepting online late applications with no fee required.
Remember to check the specific course requirements for each university, as availability may vary. To improve your chances, it’s best to apply as soon as possible.
Golden Tips for Your University Application
Tips for Your University Application
Applying to university can feel like a big and overwhelming task, especially with all the competition out there. But with a solid plan in place, you can improve your chances of being accepted. Here are some tips that can help guide you through the process:
1. Start Early
One of the most important things to do when applying to university is to start early. You want to give yourself enough time to gather all the necessary information and work on improving your academic performance. Starting at least a year ahead gives you plenty of time to research the universities you’re interested in, understand their requirements, and make sure you meet them.
2. Meet the Admission Requirements
Each university has its own set of admission requirements. It’s crucial to understand these requirements and make sure you meet them. This could include things like your academic grades, standardized test scores, essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities. Carefully read through the guidelines and make sure to include all the necessary information and documents with your application.
3. Maintain Good Grades
Your grades are a big factor in your university application. Keeping your grades up throughout high school or college shows the admissions committee that you have the academic ability to succeed in their program. If you’re struggling with any subjects, don’t be afraid to ask for help and work on improving those areas before applying.
4. Participate in Extracurricular Activities
Universities are often looking for students who are well-rounded, not just those with high grades. Getting involved in extracurricular activities like sports, clubs, or volunteer work shows that you’re a proactive person with leadership skills and a strong sense of commitment. Choose activities that interest you and reflect your strengths.
5. Prepare for Standardized Tests
Many universities require standardized test scores, so make sure you’re well-prepared. Take practice tests, use online study resources, and seek tutoring if needed. The more familiar you are with the test format and types of questions, the better you’ll perform.
By following these tips, you’ll increase your chances of being accepted to the university you’ve set your sights on. Stay focused and stay committed, even when the process gets tough.
Things to Avoid When Applying to University
When applying to university, it’s important to pay attention to every detail to avoid mistakes that could hurt your chances. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
1. Submitting an Application with Missing Documents
One of the top reasons applications get rejected is because they’re missing important documents. Double-check the application requirements to make sure you have everything you need, like your passport, school transcripts, personal statement, and exam results. Taking the time to review everything before submitting will help you avoid unnecessary setbacks.
2. Forgetting to Pay the Application Fee
Many universities require an application fee, which is separate from your tuition fees. Make sure you know whether the university charges this fee and pay it on time. If you forget, your application may be rejected automatically.
3. Neglecting the Validity of Your Supporting Documents
Make sure all of your supporting documents are valid and up to date. Most universities require documents like your passport or certificates to be valid for at least three months. Verify the validity of all your documents to avoid delays or rejections.
4. Personal Statement Errors
Your personal statement is your chance to show the university why you’re the right fit for their program. Avoid mistakes in your personal statement by clearly explaining why you want to study there, showing your enthusiasm for the program, and highlighting your relevant achievements. Proofread carefully for any spelling or grammar mistakes, and consider asking a trusted friend or family member to review it as well.
5. Applying Too Late
Submitting your application right before the deadline can leave a bad impression. It could make it seem like you’re disorganized or lack commitment. Applying early shows enthusiasm and gives you extra time to fix any potential issues or missing documents.
6. Sending Your Application to the Wrong Place
Before you submit your application, make sure you have the correct address or online submission portal. If you send it to the wrong place, your application might get lost or not be considered. Follow the university’s instructions carefully and confirm the correct destination. If in doubt, double-check with the university.
By being careful and staying organized, you can make sure your application stands out for all the right reasons. With attention to detail and a proactive approach, you’ll be on your way to achieving your goal of attending university.
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Conclusion: Universities Open for Late Applications 2025
Missing university application deadlines for 2025 doesn’t mean it’s too late. There are still opportunities, but securing a spot requires flexibility and persistence. Keep an eye out for universities offering late applications, even if they’re for courses you didn’t initially choose. Contacting faculties directly can also help, as some students cancel their spots.
Extended degree programs increase your chances of acceptance, while private colleges are another option, though they come at a cost. Taking a gap year to improve your marks and reapplying next year is also worth considering.
USAf has announced that ten universities, including the University of Johannesburg and Tshwane University of Technology, will accept late applications. With determination and careful planning, you can still find a way to pursue your studies in 2025.
