Late Application – Universities and Colleges

By | March 21, 2024

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

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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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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.
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✅ 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).

📚 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.