As we move further into the 2026 academic year, many students are already looking ahead and preparing for the next big step in their educational journey.
With several South African universities currently open, this period brings exciting opportunities for prospective students.
Below is a detailed table listing universities with their opening dates:
| University | Closing Date | Application Fee |
| Regenesys Education | 2 March 2026 | R1100 |
| University of the Western Cape (UWC) | 30 September 2025 | FREE |
| University of the Witwatersrand (WITS) | 30 September 2025 (Other) / 30 June 2025 (Specific programmes) | R100 (SA citizens) / R700 (foreign citizens) |
| University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) | 30 September 2025 (Other) / 30 June 2025 (Medicine) | R210 (On-time SA) / R420 (Late SA) / R490 (International) |
| Nelson Mandela University (NMU) | 30 June 2025 (MBChB, BPharm, and BRad)01 August 2025 (Early application deadline for all other courses excluding BPharm, MBChB, and BRad). 30 Sept 2025 (Final deadline for late applications excluding BPharm, BRad and MBChB) (International student applications deadline) | FREE (SA citizens) / R500 (International) |
| University of Limpopo (UL) | 30 September 2025 | R200 (SA) / R750 (International) |
| Walter Sisulu University (WSU) | 31 October 2025 | FREE |
| University of Johannesburg (UJ) | 31 October 2025 | FREE (online) / R200 (manual) |
| University of Fort Hare (UFH) | 31 October 2025 (Undergraduate applications) | FREE (online) / R120 (manual SA) / R500 (manual International) |
| Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) | Varies by programme and type of applicants | FREE (online) |
| University of South Africa (UNISA) | 19 December 2025 (Undergraduate qualifications) | R150 |
| 19 December 2025 (Honours degrees and Postgraduate diplomas) | R150 | |
| Varies across qualifications (Master’s & Doctoral qualifications) | R150 | |
| University of the Free State (UFS) | Varies by undergraduate programmes and student types (31 May 2025 – 30 Sept 2025) | FREE |
| Varies by programme (Postgraduate Applications) | FREE |
Note: Always refer to the official websites for updated information. Also read, South African LLB Law Admission Requirements
Table of Contents
List Of Universities Still Open For Applications in 2026
1. Regenesys Education
- Opening Date: 1 Nov 2025
- Closing Date: 2 Mar 2026
- Application Fee: R1100
- Enquire Now
2. University of South Africa (UNISA)
- Opening Date: 3 Nov 2025 (Undergraduate qualification, Honours degree, Postgraduate Diplomas) & 4 Dec 2025 (Master’s & Doctoral)
- Closing Date: 19 Dec 2025 (Undergraduate qualification, Honours degree, Postgraduate Diplomas) & varies across the Master’s & Doctoral programmes
- Application Fee: R150
3. University of the Free State (UFS)
- Opening Date: Varies across the postgraduate programmes
- Closing Date: Varies across the postgraduate programme
- Application Fee: FREE
Also read, What Comes After an MBA: Top Jobs for Graduates
Choose the right online MBA course for your career.
How To Choose The Right Programme To Study?
Choosing the right programme to study is a big decision that can greatly impact your future, career and personal growth.
With so many options available, deciding which path to take can feel overwhelming.
To make an informed choice, it’s essential to consider factors that align with your interests, strengths, and long-term goals.
Here are some key points to consider when choosing the right programme:
1. Identify Your Interests
Consider the subjects and activities you genuinely appreciate. Knowing what intrigues you can help guide you to a programme that will keep you motivated and excited to learn.
2. Research Career Opportunities
Research job options and industries related to your interests. This can help you choose the right career path after graduation.
3. Consider Your Strengths
Look at what you’re good at academically and see how it fits different fields of study. Picking a programme that matches your strengths can lead to tremendous success and satisfaction.
4. Seek Guidance
Talk to teachers, career counsellors, or professionals in your areas of interest. Their advice can offer valuable insights and help you make a well-informed decision.
5. Evaluate Programme Content
Check the curricula of the programmes you’re interested in to ensure they cover topics that interest you and meet your expectations.
6. Think About Location
Consider where you want to study and how it will affect your lifestyle and finances. The location of your university can play a significant role in your overall experience and the opportunities available to you.
7. Review University Reputation
Look into the reputation of the universities offering the programmes you’re interested in. A university’s reputation can affect the quality of education you receive and your job prospects after graduation.
Read More: Universities Open For Late Applications in 2026
Programmes Open for 2026 Intake – Regenesys Education
Conclusion
As the academic year approaches, many students eagerly prepare to apply to universities open for applications in 2026.
With various universities now accepting applications, students must stay informed about application deadlines, fees, and the specifics of each programme.
Students can make well-informed decisions that align with their interests and career goals by thoroughly researching their options and understanding what each institution offers.
This careful planning will help them choose the right programme and university, setting them up for a successful and rewarding educational journey.
Check out academic opportunities with Regenesys Education undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes. Our holistic teaching methods are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in today’s job market.
Learn how our programmes can help you reach your goals by visiting our website or contacting our admissions team.
