The University of the Western Cape (UWC) offers a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) for students who already have an undergraduate qualification and want to become qualified teachers.
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The PGCE is a postgraduate teaching qualification that prepares graduates to teach in schools at the Further Education and Training (FET) level and other sectors.
When does UWC open applications for the 2026 PGCE intake?
Applications for postgraduate programmes at UWC, including the PGCE, opened on 2 April 2025 and generally remain open until 30 September 2025 for the 2026 academic year.
This closing date applies to most postgraduate applications across faculties.
You must complete your application and submit all required documentation by this deadline.
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered for selection.
How do I submit the UWC PGCE online application form?
UWC PGCE applicants must apply online through the university’s application portal.
- Visit the UWC official Apply Online site on the UWC website.
- Create a new account or log in if you have one.
- Select Postgraduate as your application type.
- Choose “Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)” from the list of programmes, typically under the Faculty of Education.
- Complete the online form with your personal and academic information.
- Upload all required supporting documents before submission.
You will receive a confirmation email once your online application has been successfully submitted.
UWC may also provide a reference number to track your application status online.
What documents are required for the PGCE application at UWC?
Postgraduate applicants, including those applying for the PGCE, must upload the following certified documents with their online application:
- Certified copy of your South African identity document (ID) or passport if you are an international applicant.
- Official academic transcripts and records for all qualifications completed.
- Certified copies of all degree certificates you hold.
- A short Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlining your academic and work history.
- A one-page letter of motivation explaining why you want to study the PGCE.
- For international applicants, a SAQA Evaluation Certificate confirming the equivalence of your qualifications.
All documents must be certified by a commissioner of oaths or a notary public before uploading them online.
UWC will treat applications with missing or uncertified documentation as incomplete.
What are the academic requirements for the UWC PGCE?
To qualify for the PGCE at UWC, you must have completed an undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification recognised by the university.
The undergraduate degree normally needs to be at NQF level 7 with sufficient content in teaching subjects or education-related areas.
Applicants must also meet any specific faculty or programme conditions that apply to the PGCE.
UWC may require evidence of academic competence in the subjects you intend to teach. Selection is based on academic merit and programme availability.
How are applications for the UWC PGCE assessed?
UWC assesses all postgraduate applications, including those for the PGCE, based on the completeness of the application and academic qualifications.
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance because the number of available study places is limited.
Selection is competitive and made by the university using academic results, the information provided in your CV and motivation letter, and other faculty criteria where applicable.
Applicants may be invited for further assessment if required.
Can international students apply for the UWC PGCE?
Yes, international students can apply for the PGCE at UWC.
International applicants must upload a certified copy of their passport and a SAQA evaluation certificate for their qualifications.
This evaluation verifies the equivalence of foreign qualifications to South African standards before UWC can consider the application.
International applicants follow the same online process and deadlines as local applicants, and their applications must also be completed by 30 September 2025.
What happens after I submit my PGCE application?
After you submit your PGCE application online, UWC will review your application and documentation.
If your application is complete, you will receive a response by email or through the UWC application status portal.
If you are offered a place, you must accept the offer by the date specified in your offer letter or on the student portal.
After acceptance, you need to complete the registration process and pay any required fees or ensure financial clearance if you are funding your studies through bursaries, loans, or self-funding.
It is important to check your email and the UWC student portal regularly for updates on your application status.