What You Need to Know About University of Mpumalanga
University of Mpumalanga sits in Mbombela and is one of SA's newer public universities. It's getting known for growing health sciences and tech programmes, especially in response to local healthcare and digital skills shortages. If you're keen on fields like nursing, emergency care, or ICT, UMP is rolling out new options fast. There’s a practical focus here, not just theory.
UMP is a solid choice if you want a campus that’s not massive but keeps adding new programs that match real jobs in Mpumalanga. Don’t expect ancient buildings or giant sports leagues, but you get smaller classes and a shot at degrees that actually lead to work, especially if you want to stay in the province.
What APS Do You Need?
UMP doesn’t publish a single cut-off for all degrees. Each program sets its own APS and subject rules. For courses like Bachelor’s degrees, you usually need four subjects at level 4, but check the official UMP page for your exact program’s requirements. If you want to get into things like ICT or Nursing, some will want pure Maths and Life Sciences, not Maths Lit. Make sure your subjects line up before you hit apply.
How to Apply
I know the online portals can be a nightmare, but take it step-by-step. Apply directly at https://www.ump.ac.za/. The application fee is R240. Have your ID, proof of address, and latest school results ready. You’ll need your own email and a password with a mix of numbers, letters, a special character, and an uppercase letter.
Applications for the 2027 academic year open on 1 April 2026. Each course has its own closing date, so don’t wait. Programs can fill up before the official deadline if they reach capacity. There are no walk-in applications, so you must use the online system.
Fees and Funding
UMP’s actual tuition and res fees for 2027 aren’t available yet. Check their site for the latest numbers. If you need financial help, NSFAS covers UMP if you qualify for the means test. That means your household income, your marks, and the full application with the right documents. There are also some bursaries linked to specific programs, but competition is tough.
Life on Campus
Res information and costs for UMP aren’t public yet, so check their official page for updates. The campus is still growing, so expect smaller res numbers and a tight community feel. If you’re into tech, there’s a push to connect with industry, especially in the newer ICT programs. Transport in Mbombela is mostly taxis and buses, so plan for that if you’re coming from far.
Not sure if your marks are enough? Use our free APS calculator to check where you stand.