Is UMP open for 2026 intake?

By | April 23, 2025

If you’re planning to further your studies in South Africa, particularly at the University of Mpumalanga (UMP), you’ll want to know if the university is open for applications for the 2026 academic intake. We’re happy to confirm that UMP is currently accepting applications for various undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Below is a breakdown of the application process, deadlines, and important information you need to know for a smooth application experience.

UMP 2026 Application Deadlines

1. Undergraduate, Honours, Advanced Diplomas, and Postgraduate Diplomas
The application deadline for these programs is November 30, 2026. It’s crucial to submit your application before this date to be considered for admission.

2. Masters and Doctoral Programmes
If you’re applying for a master’s or doctoral program, the deadline is slightly later, giving you more time to prepare. The closing date for these applications is January 30, 2026.

The UMP Application Process

Applying to the University of Mpumalanga is a straightforward process, but there are a few essential steps to follow:

Step 1: Visit the UMP Website
Head to the official UMP website and navigate to the admissions section. This section will provide you with all the information you need about your chosen program, entry requirements, and the online application portal.

Step 2: Deposit the Application Fee
You are required to pay an application fee to process your submission. Make sure to deposit the application fee into UMP’s Standard Bank account:

  • Account Name: University of Mpumalanga
  • Account Number: 333270347
  • Branch Code: 052852

Ensure that you retain proof of payment, as this may be needed during the application review process.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Once your payment has been made, complete the application form available on the UMP website. Upload all required documents, including your academic records, identity document, and proof of payment.

Late Applications

If you happen to miss the regular application deadline, don’t worry! UMP does offer late application options for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Be sure to check the official UMP website or contact their admissions office for details on late application procedures, as these may vary from year to year.

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Why Choose UMP?

The University of Mpumalanga is one of South Africa’s newest institutions, offering a range of quality programs in various fields. Whether you are interested in undergraduate or postgraduate studies, UMP provides a diverse academic experience with a focus on sustainable development, research, and community engagement.

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Key Things to Remember:

  • Undergraduate and Postgraduate Applications: November 30, 2026
  • Masters and Doctoral Programmes: January 30, 2026
  • Make sure to pay the application fee: R100 for South African students or R200 for international students.
  • Late applications are accepted but may require additional steps.

 


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Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.


📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
  • Have a valid South African ID.
  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).
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📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.
  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.
  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.
  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
    • Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.
  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.
  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.


💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).


🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.


🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information


📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.