A university education is an important step in gaining the skills and knowledge required for a professional career. It can help provide students with the technical and soft skills required to excel in competitive roles.
In addition to professional gains, a university education can also help foster personal development and growth.
When one talks about a university, it includes undergraduate and postgraduate courses offered across various disciplines. Enrolling in a university can help students hone their skills and find a field of study they are passionate about.
In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide to applying for higher education, including university application requirements and where to submit the forms.
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Applying to South African Universities in 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide
Students who wish to apply for degree programmes at universities must secure a Bachelorā€™s Pass. However, alternative paths are also available to pursue undergraduate studies at universities in South Africa. Those who achieve a Diploma or Certificate Pass can apply for Higher Certificate Programmes. This qualification can be used to apply for a degree programme later.
Additionally, university programmes are offered at the masterā€™s and doctoral levels for students seeking a deeper understanding of a particular field or a research career.
1. Choose Your Field of Study
The first step in the university application process is deciding on your field of study. Many South African universities require students to secure a minimum Admissions Point Score. This is in addition to the overall pass achieved in the Matric exams.
Students in South African high schools often have a clear idea of the area of study they wish to pursue at university. In addition to completing mandatory subjects, they usually select electives that align with the requirements of their chosen field.
Read more on How are Final Matric Marks Calculated
2. Select the Right University in South Africa
Once students finalise their field of study, they must research universities offering that particular programme. They should also check that the university is registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). This helps to ensure that the programme is accredited.
Accredited programmes help ensure that the institute has undergone an independent evaluation and meets the required standards. Additionally, it helps to demonstrate that the institute offers a valuable and credible learning environment. This is an important step students must follow during their university application process.
Regenesys Education is a prestigious private institution for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in South Africa.
We are registered with the DHET and offer accredited programmes in various fields. These programmes can be studied at our Sandton campus or through our flexible study formats.
3. Read Student Reviews of Universities
Students should research the universities they are considering in detail. This is an important step before students apply for university in South Africa. Students should also visit shortlisted universities and speak to students to learn more about their experiences.
Many universities have scheduled open days when prospective students can visit with their families.
Prospective students can search for student reviews on independent websites or university forums. This will help students better understand the campus experience and be better informed about what is expected of them at university.
4. Understand Academic Entry Requirements
Before students can begin filling out their application, they must meet the university application requirements. All South African universities require students to obtain a Bachelorā€™s Pass in the matric exams or to hold an NQF Level 4 qualification to be eligible for Bachelor’s programmes.
In addition, each university has programme-specific requirements. These include subject-wise and overall APS scores for undergraduate programmes. Some institutes, such as Regenesys Education, offer multiple pathways for entry.
We require students to achieve a Bachelor Pass, an NQF Level 4 qualification, or an accredited and relevant NQF Level 5 qualification.
Students applying for Postgraduate Diploma programmes must have an NQF Level 7 qualification and work experience. Those applying for Masterā€™s programmes must have completed an NQF Level 8 programme and have relevant work experience.
5. Meet Language Proficiency Standards
The next step in the university application process is to ensure that students meet the language requirements.
High school students in South Africa must study two languages: the Home Language (HL) and the First Additional Language (FAL). Several universities require students to meet a specific English score at the HL or FAL level to be considered for admission, since most university programmes are conducted in English.
To gain admission to a South African university, international students must be proficient in English. Some universities might require students to submit an IELTS score.
6. Understand Where to Submit Your University Application
Once students have checked the requirements for their shortlisted universities, they are ready to complete the application forms. These individual forms are available on the official university websites. Along with the application, students must also attach all the required documents.
When filling out the university application forms, students must ensure all the information is correct and current. Filling in incorrect information can result in their applications being rejected.
Most universities require students to create a login and password. This allows them to submit the application and keep track of their admission process.
While most universities prefer online applications, some offer the option to print application forms and submit them by post.
7. Apply before the Application Deadlines
The most important step in the university application process is to submit the application and all the required documents before the deadline. Most universities allow students to save their applications and complete them over several days.
Students must take time to complete and double-check their applications before submitting them for processing. They must ensure that all the required documents are attached and that the application fee has been paid.
Regenesys Education is still accepting applications for the 2026 academic year. In addition to the February intake, we also offer additional mid-year intakes.
Read more on Universities Open for 2026 Applications
8. Final steps after receiving your acceptance letter
Once students receive their acceptance letter from their preferred universities, they must decide where to enrol. Next, they must confirm their acceptance and apply for any bursaries or student loans if required.
International students must apply for a visa before starting their studies in South Africa. They must also apply for bursaries or international student loans in their home country.
This is the final step in the university application process before students can begin higher education.
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Conclusion
Attending university is a right of passage for most students, and it improves career prospects while fostering personal development. Students should research the various available fields of study and find one that aligns with their interests.
The high school subjects that students choose are critical for most university applications in South Africa. Therefore, it is important to check subject requirements, including language proficiency, before beginning the application process. Students can follow this university application process for a seamless experience.
Visit the Regenesys Education website to explore our programmes. Apply today!
FAQs
What are the university application requirements?
While exact requirements vary, students need a Bachelorā€™s Pass in their Matric exams to begin degree programmes.
What is the deadline to apply for university?
All universities have separate deadlines depending on the programme of study. Regenesys Education is accepting applications for the February intake until the end of January 2026. We also offer additional intake months.
How to apply for university online?
Students must do individual research on programmes and check student reviews. Once they have finalised their programmes, they can apply directly through the university website.
Can I attend university without a Bachelors Pass?
Students can complete a Higher Certificate programme and use that as a basis for admission for undergraduate studies.
How to apply for university in South Africa?
Students can check the list of universities on the DBE website, research their programmes, and check rankings and student reviews before applying to their shortlisted universities.
