Before you apply
How to Apply
I know the online portals can be a nightmare, but take it step-by-step. You apply at www.up.ac.za/apply. Applications open in March the year before you want to start. There’s no extra form for res, just indicate it on your main application. You’ll need your Grade 11 report, ID, and any other documents the program asks for. Some design courses also want a portfolio, so check the course details.
The popular courses fill up fast, so apply as soon as you can. There’s no set closing date for most courses, but health sciences usually close by 30 June. Rather get your application in early to have a shot at both your degree and res.
Application fee
General: R300
Closing date
UP closes most applications on 30 June 2026, while Veterinary Science closes on 31 May 2026.
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 University of Pretoria does not apply you for NSFAS — you need to do both.
Apply for NSFAS at nsfas.org.zaApplying
- 1
Start your UP online application
Begin at up.ac.za/apply.
- 2
Complete your biographical and academic details
Select the degrees you want before you upload anything.
- 3
Upload your certified documents
You need your ID and final Grade 11 marks ready.
- 4
Pay the fee and submit before the cutoff
Budget R300 and finish early if your faculty closes sooner.
After you apply
UP usually responds in stages, so keep checking both your email and your student portal.
Your application may move from received to conditionally admitted before your final Matric results confirm your place. Extra faculty steps can slow that timeline down.
Accept your conditional offer on the portal, submit your signed student contract, and be ready to pay the initial registration fee once your final results are out.
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.