Before you apply
How to Apply
I know the online application site can be intimidating, but if you take it step-by-step, you’ll be fine. Apply at https://www.wits.ac.za/applications/ using the online system. The main things you need are your final Grade 11 or most recent matric results, your ID, and any extra documents they ask for. The deadline for applications is 30 September 2025, and if you want res, apply by the same date.
There’s no mention of walk-in applications, so get everything in online. Make sure your documents are clear and you choose your programs in order of preference. If the site is acting up, try late at night or early in the morning when it’s quieter.
Application fee
General: R100
Closing date
Applications close on 30 September 2026, while Health Sciences closes on 30 June 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 the Witwatersrand does not apply you for NSFAS — you need to do both.
Apply for NSFAS at nsfas.org.zaApplying
- 1
Go to the Wits application portal
Start at wits.ac.za/applications.
- 2
Prepare your documents
Upload certified Grade 11 results, your ID, and any extra programme documents.
- 3
Choose up to three programmes in order of preference
Rank your strongest option first and check faculty requirements early.
- 4
Pay the fee and submit before the deadline
Pay the non-refundable R100 fee and use your person number as the reference.
After you apply
You've submitted, now keep track of your response and your next admin steps.
Wits can reply with accepted, provisionally accepted pending final results, waitlisted, or unsuccessful. Most students hear back within 4 to 8 weeks.
Accept your offer on the Wits portal before the deadline. If you still need housing or funding, finish your residence and NSFAS steps too.
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.