Before you apply
How to Apply
I know the online portals can be a nightmare, but take it step-by-step. Apply at https://studies.nwu.ac.za/studies/apply. Have your ID, latest school results, and proof of payment for the R600 application fee ready. You can pick a campus and program in the same form.
The closing date for most courses is 30 September 2025. Residence applications open with your course application. No walk-ins for first-years, so do it all online if you can. If your data is tight, try use free WiFi at a library or youth centre.
Application fee
General: R0
Closing date
NWU usually closes around August or September 2026, so finish your web application early once you have your university number.
How you apply
Online, through the university's portal
Know what you're applying for
Before you apply, work out what you're interested in studying and check whether you meet the entry requirements — it decides which programmes are worth putting on your application.
Documents you'll need
- Certified copy of your ID or passport
- Certified copy of your latest results (Grade 11 or matric, whichever you have)
- Academic transcript — only if you're a transfer student from another institution
- SAQA evaluation — only if you did your schooling outside South Africa
- Proof of residence — only if you're applying for a res spot
Don't forget NSFAS
NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) is a separate application from your university application, with its own closing date. Applying to North West University does not apply you for NSFAS — you need to do both.
Apply for NSFAS at nsfas.org.zaApplying
- 1
Generate your NWU university number
Start at studies.nwu.ac.za before you complete the full form.
- 2
Log in and complete the web application
Choose your campus and courses before you upload documents.
- 3
Upload your certified paperwork
Include your ID, Grade 11 results, and any required undertakings.
- 4
Submit before the published closing date
Do not wait for the last week if your faculty needs extra checks.
After you apply
NWU usually follows up by SMS or email, so check both while you keep your portal details close.
An NWU update can still be conditional if your faculty needs extra interviews, tests, or final results before it confirms your place.
Accept your offer officially, then move on residence applications and any extra faculty checks without delaying.
Rewrite matric
Improve your marks and reapply.
Try other unis
See where your current APS still fits.
Gap year
Work, volunteer, and plan your next cycle.