Applying to University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University) for the 2027 intake is a chance to start your degree at one of South Africa’s top public universities – and the deadline is fast approaching.
What the opportunity is
Wits University is opening applications for most undergraduate programmes for the 2027 academic year. You can study anywhere from Accounting and Engineering to Medicine, Law, Arts and Sciences. The university also offers residence accommodation, NSFAS funding and a range of scholarships and bursaries.
Who can apply
Anyone who will finish Grade 12 in 2026 may apply. Applicants who have already matriculated, are studying at another tertiary institution, are international students, or wish to transfer can also apply, provided they meet the specific entry requirements for their chosen programme.
Meeting the minimum Admission Point Score (APS) does not guarantee a place. Admissions depend on programme capacity, your final results, NBT scores, portfolios, auditions or other selection criteria.
What you gain
- Access to world‑class teaching and research facilities.
- Potential funding through NSFAS, university scholarships or external bursaries.
- Opportunities for on‑campus accommodation.
- Qualifications that are recognised nationally and internationally.
How to apply – step by step
- Decide which programmes you want to study and note their APS, subject and NBT requirements.
- Visit the official Wits application portal and start your online application: Apply Online at Wits University.
- Enter your name exactly as it appears on your South African ID or passport – no initials or nicknames.
- Select up to three programmes. The order of your choices does not affect the assessment.
- Upload the required supporting documents (see section below).
- Pay the R100 application fee using the Student Self‑Service portal (use your person/student number as the payment reference).
- After submission you will receive an acknowledgement with your person number and the name of your Admissions Consultant.
Documents you must provide
- If you are still in Grade 12, upload your final Grade 11 results.
- If you have already matriculated, upload a certified copy of your matric results or equivalent school‑leaving certificate.
- If you have studied at another tertiary institution, provide official transcripts and, where required, a statement of good conduct.
You can upload or update documents at any time through the Student Self‑Service portal.
Checking your application status
Log in regularly to the Student Self‑Service portal to see the latest status, upload missing files and read any messages from the Admissions office: Wits Student Self‑Service Portal.
Do not rely solely on SMS or email – the portal is the official source of updates.
Key dates
- Applications for Health Sciences, Architectural Studies, Audiology, Speech‑Language Pathology and BA Film & Television closed on 30 June 2026.
- All other undergraduate programmes and residence applications close on 30 September 2026.
- Application fee must be paid before the relevant closing date.
National Benchmark Tests (NBTs)
Some programmes require you to sit the NBTs. Requirements differ by faculty:
- Health Sciences – in‑person pencil‑and‑paper NBT (mid‑August recommended).
- Audiology and Speech‑Language Pathology – NBT required.
- Science programmes – NBT to be completed by the end of October.
- Other programmes may need portfolios, auditions or architectural exercises.
Check the specific requirements for your chosen programme before registering for any test.
Funding – NSFAS and scholarships
Wits is a public university, so eligible students can apply for NSFAS funding. Remember that the university application and the NSFAS application are separate processes. Apply to Wits first, then submit a separate NSFAS application when the 2027 cycle opens.
NSFAS has not yet published the exact dates for the 2027 national cycle (as of 2 September 2026). Watch the official NSFAS site for updates: Visit the Official NSFAS Website.
Wits also offers its own scholarships and bursaries, including the Vice‑Chancellor’s Scholarship (awarded automatically to the top twenty first‑time entrants) and University Entrance Scholarships based on matric performance. External bursaries are listed on the university’s financial aid page: Wits Scholarships and Bursaries.
Residence applications
If you need on‑campus housing, submit a residence application by 30 September 2026. An academic offer does not guarantee accommodation, so apply early and monitor your Student Self‑Service account for updates.
Tuition and fees
Fees depend on the programme and the number of courses you register for. The university’s published 2026 fees are only a guide – 2027 fees may change. If you receive NSFAS funding, a bursary or another sponsor, the first‑payment arrangements will be communicated to you after admission.
International students
Foreign applicants must meet the same academic requirements plus visa, immigration and financial clearance. Once an offer is received, follow the International Students Office guidance for enrolment, visas and fee payment.
Tips to improve your chances
- Don’t rely only on meeting the minimum APS. Check subject requirements (Math, English, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences) and any NBT or portfolio criteria.
- Use all three programme choices and include at least one backup option.
- Submit your application well before the 30 September deadline – early submission reduces the risk of technical glitches.
- Upload all required documents promptly and keep your contact details up‑to‑date.
- Start your NSFAS and external bursary applications as soon as you have an offer – many close before university registration.
- Regularly log into Student Self‑Service to answer any requests for additional information.
Conclusion and next steps
Apply to Wits University as soon as the portal opens, pay the fee, and upload your documents. Then keep an eye on the Student Self‑Service portal for status updates, NBT dates and funding opportunities. By planning early and following each step, you give yourself the best chance of securing a place, funding and accommodation for the 2027 academic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Wits University applications for 2027 still open?
Yes, for most programmes. The deadline for the majority of undergraduate courses is 30 September 2026. Health Sciences, Architectural Studies, Audiology, Speech‑Language Pathology and BA Film & Television closed on 30 June 2026.
When do applications close?
Most programmes close on 30 September 2026; the aforementioned specialised programmes closed on 30 June 2026.
What is the application fee?
The fee is R100, payable before the relevant closing date.
How many programmes can I apply for?
You may select up to three programmes. The order of selection does not affect assessment.
How do I check my application status?
Log into the Student Self‑Service portal and go to Student Centre → Admissions → View Academic Application Status.
Can I receive NSFAS funding?
Yes, if you meet NSFAS eligibility criteria and are approved.
Has NSFAS opened its 2027 application cycle?
Official dates have not yet been released. Check the NSFAS website for the latest information.
Does meeting the minimum APS guarantee admission?
No. Admission also depends on programme capacity, final results and any additional selection requirements.
Where can I find Wits courses and APS requirements?
Use the SETA SA Wits University explorer to search by faculty and view APS thresholds and other entry criteria.
Disclaimer
SETA SA provides this guide to simplify university admissions information. SETA SA is not the University of the Witwatersrand and does not make admission or funding decisions. Dates, requirements, fees, bursaries and NSFAS arrangements can change. Always verify information directly with Wits University, NSFAS and the official links provided before taking action.
SETA SA IS A REGISTERED NON‑PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232‑182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. SETA SA DOES NOT SOLICIT MONEY OR CVS FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. USE THE SETA SA SCAM DETECTOR TOOL TO SPOT A SCAM BEFORE YOU APPLY.
