If you’ve overlooked the initial deadline for college applications or haven’t been accepted into the programs you desired, there’s no need for despair. You still have the opportunity to submit applications to several prestigious universities and TVET colleges across South Africa for the academic year of 2026. This guide is here to equip you with all the essential details for a successful late application process.
Overview of Late Application Opportunities in 2026
Universities and Universities of Technology with Open Late Applications for 2026
While most universities typically enforce strict application deadlines, a select few in South Africa offer a grace period for late applications, allowing you to enroll in courses for the year 2026.
Late Applications at the University of Johannesburg (UJ)
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is accepting late applications until 25 January 2026, at 2 pm. There is no application fee, and late applications are open for programs that still have vacancies.
Late Applications at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) ended its undergraduate application period on 30 September 2023. However, late applications are still welcomed for selected programs across various faculties, pending space availability.
Open Faculties for Late Applications at UKZN include:
- College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science
- College of Humanities (excluding certain programs)
- College of Law and Management Studies
University of South Africa (UNISA) Late Applications
The University of South Africa (UNISA) closed its late applications on 17 November 2023. Nonetheless, select undergraduate programs in various faculties remain open for applications until 31 January 2026.
University of Western Cape(UWC) Late Application 2026
University of Johannesburg (UJ) Late Application 2026
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) Late Application 2026
Tshwane University of Technology ( TUT) Late Application 2026
Central University of Technology (CUT) Late Application 2026
University of Pretoria (UP) Late Application 2026
Durban University of Technology (DUT) Late Application 2026
University Kwazulu-Natal (UKZN) Late Application 2026
University of the Witwatersrand (WITS) Late Application 2026
Nelson Mandela University (NMMU) Late Application 2026
University of Cape Town (UCT) Late Application 2026
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) Late Application 2026
Vaal University of Technology Late Application 2026
University of Venda Late Application 2026
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges Accepting Late Applications for 2026
TVET colleges across South Africa offer varied closing dates for their programs. Here are some notable mentions:
Central Johannesburg TVET College
Accepting late applications until 5 February 2026, offering a wide range of qualifications with online application options.
College of Cape Town
Applications are open for 2026, providing advanced technology and facilities for students, with free application processes.
Continuous Application Opportunities at TVET Colleges
Several TVET colleges accept applications throughout the year for specific programs. These institutions include but are not limited to:
- Capricorn TVET College
- Coastal TVET College
- Ekurhuleni East and West TVET Colleges
- And many others
This guide aims to provide a pathway for students who are still seeking to pursue their studies in 2026 despite missing earlier deadlines. Whether it’s a university or a TVET college, there are still avenues open for late applications, offering a second chance at furthering your education.
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