You’ll find a breakdown of how to apply to Nelson Mandela University (NMU) below.  We’ve got instructions on the online application process AND the hardcopy application.  Tertiary education is just a few steps away!  Let’s get started.

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NMU Application Breakdown

Note: Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible in the application cycle.  Applications close at the end of September for SA applicants (latest) and at the end of October for international applicants.

Before you begin applying online or in hardcopy, have a look at our infographic on Things to Remember Before Applying.

Apply to NMU using the online application

Things to note before applying online to NMU:

1. You’ll need an email address to complete the application. Don’t have one? Get an email address first.
2. Have you calculated your APS?  You’ll need to do this before applying.  Find out how.
3. South African applicants will need an ID number.  Foreign applicants will need their passport number.
4. Please note: check out the list of full programs before you apply.
5. Ensure that you have a valid cell phone number.  The outcome of your application will be sent via SMS.

How to Apply Online

NMU has one online application portal which leads to different forms, depending on what you would like to study.

• Online Application Forms

Apply to NMU using the hardcopy application

Things to note before applying with a hardcopy form:

1. Need accommodation?  You can indicate this in the student residence section on the application form. 
2. Make sure you have attached all supporting documents before sending off the application form.
3. Have you calculated your APS?  You’ll need to do this before applying.  Find out how.
4. Postgraduates will need to complete a separate application process.
5. If you are applying for module exemption, you will need to complete the module exemption form.

You can post your application form to the following address:

The Admissions Office
PO Box 77000
Nelson Mandela University
PORT ELIZABETH
6031

• Download NMU Undergraduate Application Form
• Download NMU Postgraduate Application Form

Don’t forget to write the NBT Test

This institution requires you to write a National Benchmark test (NBT) as part of your application. Find out more information about the NBT tests here. Get on it now!

FIND OUT MORE

Apply to NMU Residence

NOTE:  You’ll need to be accepted into your faculty before you’ll be considered for student accommodation.RESIDENCE APPLICATION FORM

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Visit our library of funding opportunities.  Feel free to browse through and apply to opportunities that suit you.  Finding funding really can be that easy.FIND FUNDING

Application Fees for NMU

There is no application fee for South African applicants.

International applicants need to pay an application fee of R500.

Please do not send cash in the post and remember to attach a copy of the proof of payment to your application form.
Tip: keep the original proof of payment, just in case.

Please note that this fee is non-refundable.

Submitting of Results and Documents

Here’s the deal: you must ensure that your Grade 11 and latest Grade 12 results are submitted. Failure to do this may result in delays with your application process. Not cool.  All the documents you attach will need to be certified copies of the originals.  

Are you a transferring student?   If yes, make sure that all transcripts and academic records are submitted as early as possible.  Your application for admission should be submitted by 2 August 2026. Late applications will be considered after this date, based on merit, until 30 September 2026.  Remember to complete a module exemption form should you want to be exempt from certain modules.

NOTE: Once you have sent in your application and have a student number, you can check your application status.

Contact Nelson Mandela University:

For more information on how to apply to NMU, you can visit their website.

Alternatively, you can contact the NMU Admissions Department using the following details:

Email: admissions@nmmu.ac.za
Tel:041 504 1111