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University Application Fees in South Africa 2026

 

 

Applying to universities in South Africa can be an exciting yet daunting process, especially with the additional costs that come with it. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for application fees at various institutions:
 
 
Universities with No Application Fees
  • University of Johannesburg (UJ): No application fee for online applications
  • University of the Free State (UFS): No application fee
  • Central University of Technology (CUT): No application fee
  • Nelson Mandela University (NMU): No application fee for South African citizens
  • University of the Western Cape (UWC): No application fee for online applications
  • Walter Sisulu University (WSU): No application fee
  • Sol Plaatje University (SPU): No application fee
  • North-West University (NWU): No application fee for South African citizens
Universities with Application Fees
  • University of Cape Town (UCT): R100 for South African citizens, R300 for other African nationals, and $300 for international students
  • University of Pretoria (UP): R300, but free if household income is below R150,000 per year
  • University of Witwatersrand (Wits): R100 for South African citizens, R700 for foreign citizens
  • Tshwane University of Technology (TUT): R240
  • University of Limpopo (UL): R200 for South African citizens, R750 for international students
  • Rhodes University: R100
  • University of Venda: R100
  • Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT): R100
  • Stellenbosch University: R100
  • University of Fort Hare: R80
  • Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU): R200
  • University of Mpumalanga (UMP): R150 for South African citizens, R350 for other African countries, R500 for countries outside Africa
  • Vaal University of Technology (VUT): R100, R140 for late applications
Key Considerations
 
When applying to universities, make sure to factor in the application fees, and explore options for fee waivers or reductions. Some universities offer free applications for online submissions or for students from low-income households. It's essential to check the university's website for the most up-to-date information on application fees and deadlines . 
  

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