UNIVERSITY LINKS BLOG

  Applying Through the CAO in 2026: Everything You Need to Know Are you planning to study at a university in KwaZulu-Natal or some parts of the Eastern Cape in 2026? If so, chances are you'll need to apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO) — a streamlined application system that allows you to apply to multiple institutions and programmes using one application . Here’s everything you need to know about how the CAO works, which universities use it, how to apply, and what to expect. What Is the CAO? The Central Applications Office (CAO) is a centralized online application portal used by several public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa. It allows prospective students to apply for up to six programs across multiple institutions using just one application and one application fee . It simplifies the application process and is ideal for students who want to maximize their chances of getting accepted to a tertiary institution. Universities That Use ...

Are you planning to study at North-West University (NWU) in 2026? Whether you're aiming for a degree in Education, Social Sciences, or Law, make sure you apply on time — NWU’s application windows close earlier than many other institutions. Application Deadlines You Need to Know: Selection courses (e.g., Nursing, Pharmacy, Engineering): Closing Date: 30 June 2025 All other courses & residence applications : Closing Date: 31 August 2025 Don’t miss out — late applications are not accepted! How to Apply to NWU: Step-by-Step Guide To make the process easier, here’s what you need to have ready before you apply : 1. Minimum Application Requirements A valid, unique personal email address You must register with this email address before you can begin your application. It will become your login username for tracking your application. You’ll receive a temporary password initially. After changing it, you’ll use your email and new password to access your profile. ...

If you're planning to start your university journey in 2026, this is your moment. The University of South Africa (UNISA) —Africa’s largest open distance learning institution—will be opening applications for undergraduate qualifications for the 2026 academic year from 18 August to 10 October 2025 . Whether you're a school leaver or looking to upskill, UNISA offers flexible, affordable access to quality higher education. Here's everything you need to know to prepare your application. Application Dates for 2026 Opening date : 18 August 2025 Closing date : 10 October 2025 Important : Applications submitted after 10 October 2025 will not be considered. Many qualifications also have limited spaces, so applying early is strongly advised. Who Should Apply? You must apply for admission to undergraduate qualifications at UNISA if: You are a first-time applicant to UNISA You were previously registered with UNISA but did not register in 2025 You want to apply for a...

    Choosing the right university, finding the right resources, and securing financial aid can be a stressful and confusing journey for many students. That’s exactly why we created University Links — a platform designed with you in mind. Whether you're a high school learner preparing for life after matric, or a student currently navigating your university experience, University Links is here to make the process easier, more accessible, and far less overwhelming. What is University Links? University Links is a user-friendly website created to support students in their academic journey. We provide quick and easy access to essential tools and information that help you make confident, informed decisions about your future. What You’ll Find on University Links Here’s how we’re helping students across South Africa: Previous Question Papers Prepare smarter with access to past exam papers and test yourself on real questions from previous years. It’s one of the most effect...

Let’s be honest—applying to university can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure of what you actually qualify for. You’ve got your matric results in hand, but now you’re asking: “So… what courses can I apply for?” “Do my marks meet the requirements?” “Which universities will even accept me?” That’s where Course Connect from University Links steps in to make life way easier. What Is Course Connect? Course Connect is an online platform that helps you match your matric results with the right university courses. No more guessing, stressing, or endlessly Googling entry requirements. link to main page:  https://www.universitylinks.co.za/Courseconnect.html   Here’s how it works:     How Course Connect Works Matric Results Matching Enter your matric results, and the system automatically matches you with courses you're eligible for. Course Suggestions You’ll get a list of courses that align with your marks and APS score , across multiple universi...

  If you’re in Grade 11 and already thinking about university, first of all—good for you! Planning ahead gives you a huge advantage. But you might be wondering: “Do I actually need to apply for university while I’m still in Grade 11?” Short Answer: No, not yet. In most countries, university applications open during Grade 12 . That’s when schools will ask for your final marks, course completions, and other documents to assess your eligibility. But here’s the thing: Grade 11 matters. A lot. Why Grade 11 Still Counts Even though you’re not applying yet, your Grade 11 performance is often used by universities in the early stages of admission—especially if you're applying to competitive programs or early admission options. Universities will look at: Your Grade 11 transcript to estimate how you might perform in Grade 12 The types of courses you’re taking (are they prerequisites for your desired program?) Your consistency and academic growth So, while you don’t apply during...

  When it comes to applying for college or university, timing and academic qualifications are everything. But what happens if you're currently upgrading your results ? Are you allowed to apply for your desired course or institution while waiting for your improved grades? The short answer is: Yes, in many cases, you can — but there are some important things you need to know. What Does “Upgrading Results” Mean? Upgrading your results typically means retaking certain subjects to improve your grades — whether it's to meet specific course requirements, get into a better program, or simply aim for a stronger academic record. This is common among students who: Didn’t meet the cutoff marks for their desired course or college Want to boost their scores for competitive programs Are aiming for scholarships that require higher academic standing Can You Still Apply While Upgrading? Yes, many institutions allow students to apply while upgrading , but with a few conditions: Pr...

  Absolutely! Here’s a blog post about What Is a Freshers Party for you: Starting college or university is an exciting new chapter filled with opportunities, friendships, and unforgettable experiences. One of the most anticipated events for newcomers is the Freshers Party — a vibrant celebration that marks the beginning of campus life for freshers, or first-year students. What Exactly Is a Freshers Party? A Freshers Party is a social event organized by educational institutions, student unions, or clubs to welcome new students. It’s usually held during the first few weeks of the academic year and serves as a fun and informal way to help freshers get acquainted with their peers, seniors, and campus culture. The party is more than just a fun night out; it’s a key part of student life that helps ease the transition into a new environment, fosters friendships, and builds a sense of community among newcomers. What Happens at a Freshers Party? Freshers parties are known for thei...

    As a Grade 12 learner preparing for life after high school, you're probably hearing a lot about your options for further study — and two of the most common institutions mentioned are universities and TVET colleges . But what exactly is the difference between them? Which one is better for you? And how do you know which one to choose? Let’s break it down so you can make an informed decision about your future. What Is a University? A university is a higher education institution that offers academic and professional qualifications , including: Degrees (e.g. Bachelor of Arts, BSc, BCom, LLB, etc.) Postgraduate qualifications (Honours, Masters, and Doctorates) Universities focus on: Theoretical knowledge Research and academic study Preparing students for careers that require in-depth study (like medicine, law, engineering, accounting, etc.) Examples of public universities in South Africa: University of Cape Town (UCT) University of Johannesburg (UJ) ...

  So, you’ve been accepted to university—congratulations! One of your next big decisions is where you’re going to stay. For many students, the choice comes down to on-campus vs off-campus accommodation. Each option has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your personality, budget, lifestyle, and support needs. In this post, we’ll break down the differences , benefits , and challenges of each to help you make the best decision. What Is On-Campus Accommodation? On-campus accommodation refers to university residences (also called res , hostels , or digs ) that are located within or very close to the university campus . These are managed by the university or in partnership with student housing providers. Pros of Staying On-Campus: Convenience You’re close to lecture halls, libraries, cafeterias, labs, and support services. No transport stress. Student Life & Community You’ll be surrounded by fellow students, making it easier to make friends and feel...

  Starting university is exciting—but also a little scary. You’re entering a new world with unfamiliar faces, bigger classes, and a different way of life. Many first-year students wonder: “How will I make friends?” “Will I fit in?” “What if I end up feeling alone?” These are valid questions—and the good news is, most people around you are feeling the same way. This post is here to remind you: you’re not alone , and there are plenty of ways to build meaningful friendships and find your place at university. 1. Be Open to New People and Experiences One of the best things about university is that it's a fresh start. You're surrounded by people from different backgrounds, provinces, even countries. Don’t be afraid to talk to someone sitting next to you in class or in the cafeteria. A simple “Hi, how are you finding the course so far?” can open the door to a new friendship. Tip: The first few weeks are when most people are looking to connect. Take advantage of this time to...

    So you're heading to university, but there’s one big question on your mind: “How am I going to afford this?” You’re not alone—and the good news is, South Africa has multiple financial aid options to help you get there. But it can be confusing to figure out the difference between NSFAS , scholarships , and bursaries . Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can make the right decision for your future. 1. What is NSFAS? NSFAS stands for National Student Financial Aid Scheme . It is a government-funded program that provides financial assistance to South African students who come from low-income households . Key Features: Funded by: The South African government Who can apply: South African citizens with a combined household income of R350,000 or less per year Covers: Tuition, registration fees, accommodation, meals, transport, learning materials, and more Institutions covered: Public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa Application process: Onlin...

  Failing in varsity can feel like the end of the world — especially when you've worked hard to get there. Whether you're overwhelmed by the course content, struggling with motivation, or just not seeing the results you hoped for, know this: you are not alone , and this is not the end . Academic failure happens for many reasons, and it doesn’t define your future. What matters most is what you do next. If you're wondering whether you should change your course, switch universities, or take a completely different route, this blog post is for you. 1. Pause. Reflect. Be Honest With Yourself. Before making any big decisions, take time to reflect on why things aren't working out. Ask yourself: Did I choose this course for the right reasons? Do I genuinely enjoy the subjects I'm studying? Have I been giving it my best effort? Are there personal, financial, or mental health challenges affecting my performance? Sometimes, failure is more about the environment ...