Universities Still Accepting Late Applications in South Africa (2026)

Missing the main university application deadline does not always mean you have lost your chance to study in 2026.

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Check Your Personalized Funding Options

Some universities in South Africa still accept late applications, late enquiries, or applications for programmes with available space, especially during January and early February.
Applications are competitive and limited, so you must act quickly.

This article explains which universities may still be open, how late applications work, and where to apply online.

Universities That May Still Accept Late Applications

Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)

TUT usually opens a late application period after the main cycle closes. Late applications are only accepted for programmes that still have space. This window normally runs from mid-January to late January or early February.
Applicants should apply and check updates on the official application portal here:

TUT Online Applications: https://www.tut.ac.za/apply
All applications and late enquiries must be submitted online. TUT warns against third-party services that charge fees for assistance. The university does not charge for enquiries and only accepts official online submissions.

University of Johannesburg (UJ)

UJ does not accept traditional late applications after the main closing date, but it runs a Late Enquiry System in January. This system lets you see which programmes still have space.


UJ Admissions: https://www.uj.ac.za/applications
To use the Late Enquiry System, visit the UJ admissions section and follow the late enquiry link. You then enter your Grade 12 results to see available programmes.

Walter Sisulu University (WSU)

WSU may allow late applications for programmes that still have space in January, but not all courses are open. Applicants should check the official admissions page and submit online forms if available.
WSU Admissions: https://www.wsu.ac.za/apply

Nelson Mandela University (NMU)

NMU may accept late applications for selected qualifications once main application results are finalised, usually from mid-January. Available spaces are limited.


NMU Apply Online: https://www.mandela.ac.za/study-with-us/apply

Durban University of Technology (DUT)

DUT accepts applications through the Central Applications Office (CAO) system. As long as space remains available in a programme, you can apply via CAO.

CAO Application Portal: https://www.cao.ac.za
DUT itself does not host its own application platform on its site — all undergraduate applications go through CAO.

Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)

MUT also accepts applications through CAO. If a programme still has space, late applications can be submitted via this portal as long as the CAO system is open to changes or new submissions.
CAO Application Portal: https://www.cao.ac.za
After applying, check the MUT website for specific admission updates: https://www.mut.ac.za

University of Zululand (UNIZULU)

UNIZULU may accept late applications or change-of-mind requests via CAO if places are still available. Always check which programmes are listed as open on the CAO website.

CAO Application Portal: https://www.cao.ac.za
Then visit the UNIZULU site for instructions: https://www.unizulu.ac.za

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

Some non-restricted programmes at UKZN may still accept late applications where space remains. These are usually submitted via CAO, and you should check availability and apply quickly.
CAO Application Portal: https://www.cao.ac.za
Then check UKZN’s admissions page: https://www.ukzn.ac.za

Universities That Are Usually Closed for Late Applications

The following universities generally do not accept late undergraduate applications for the first semester of 2026:

These universities may still offer postgraduate or second-semester intakes, but first-year undergraduate late applications are usually not available for the current cycle.

Important Things to Know About Late Applications

  • Late applications are only accepted if space is still available in the programme you want.
  • Popular programmes such as Medicine, Law, Engineering and Education fill fast and often close early.
  • Late applications are not guaranteed and are competitive.
  • Universities may close late application windows without notice once capacity is reached.

How to Apply If You Missed the Deadline

Step 1: Check University Websites

Visit the official admissions page of the university you want to join. Most have an “Apply” or “Late Applications” link.

Step 2: Use the Central Applications Office (CAO)

For several universities (like DUT, MUT, UNIZULU, UKZN), you must apply through CAO.
CAO Portal: https://www.cao.ac.za

Step 3: Contact the Admissions Office

If you are unsure whether late applications are still open, call or email the university’s admissions office — they can confirm availability.

Step 4: Prepare Your Documents

Make sure to have ready:

  • Certified copy of your ID
  • Certified matric or latest school results
  • Proof of application fee payment if required

Step 5: Apply Immediately

Late spaces fill quickly. Do not delay once you find an open programme.

What About NSFAS?

If you plan to apply for NSFAS funding, remember that late university applications can affect your funding timeline. Always make sure your university choice is NSFAS-accredited and check NSFAS deadlines so you don’t miss out on funding opportunities.

If you missed the main application period, do not give up. Many students secure places through late application windows each year. Act fast, apply to multiple institutions if possible, and keep checking official university platforms for updates.
Make sure you use the official application links above — this is where all valid and free university applications must be submitted.

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