VerifiedMany students miss the standard application deadlines for South African universities. In some cases, you can still apply after the main closing date.
A late application gives you one more chance to secure a place for the 2027 academic year.
Which Universities Still Take Applications for 2027?
Some universities open late application windows or allow enquiries if space is available.
These opportunities are generally for programmes that still have room after the standard deadlines have passed.
Late opportunities vary by institution and faculty.
Among the universities still considering late applications or enquiries are the University of Johannesburg (UJ), Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), and University of Zululand (UNIZULU).
These institutions may accept applications online if space remains in certain faculties or programmes.
How Does the University of Johannesburg (UJ) Late Entry System Work?
The University of Johannesburg closes its main application for 2027 on 31 October 2026.
After that, it offered a late enquiry system called the UJ Mobi system.
Through this online platform, prospective students can check if there are still spaces in specific programmes.
The system does not guarantee admission, but allows applicants to express interest if they have their final Grade 12 results ready. UJ does not allow walk-in applications for late entry.
This means you must apply through the online system and wait for confirmation on available spots.
For the 2026 intake, UJ ran a late enquiry system in January, after the matric results, for programmes that still had space.
Can Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Accept Late Applications?
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) closes most first-year programmes for 2027 on 30 September 2026, and it has reopened late applications in January in past cycles.
TUT lists closing dates per programme, and selection programmes such as Nursing closed on 15 June 2026.
To apply late to TUT, you must use the official online application portal. Walk-in applications are not permitted.
You also need to meet the entry requirements for your chosen course for your application to be considered.
Are There Late Applications at Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)?
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) takes first-year applications through CAO, which accepts late applications with a higher fee after 30 September.
These applications are processed through the Central Applications Office (CAO).
This is the same portal many universities of technology use for standard applications.
MUT’s guidance gives 30 November as the last date for late CAO applications.
For example, engineering, natural sciences, and management sciences are areas where space may still exist. Always check the CAO website for the most current information.
What About the University of Zululand (UNIZULU)?
The University of Zululand (UNIZULU) is another institution that has been accepting late applications via the CAO.
The University of Mpumalanga keeps applications open until 30 November 2026, the latest closing date of any public university for 2027.
For UNIZULU, you should submit your application through the CAO well before the late closing date and include all supporting documents.
The university will then consider your application based on space in the programmes you selected.
Which Universities Do Not Accept Late Applications?
Several large universities do not accept late applications for 2027 at all.
These include institutions such as the University of Cape Town (UCT) and the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits).
UCT, Stellenbosch, the University of Pretoria, Sefako Makgatho and North-West University closed their 2027 undergraduate applications between June and August 2026 and run no late window.
Other universities like the University of Pretoria (UP) and Stellenbosch University (SU) also do not offer late applications for most programmes.
You will need to wait for the next application cycle for these institutions.
Can You Change Your Mind or Apply to TVET Colleges if University Doors Close?
If most universities have closed late applications, then you have alternatives.
One option is to submit a change of mind request via the CAO for programmes that still have space.
This may allow you to switch focus to a different course that is still open.
Another path is to consider TVET colleges. Many TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) institutions accept applications year-round for courses like engineering studies, business practice, and technical skills.
These can be a good alternative to start building skills while you wait for the next university intake.
What Documents Do You Need for a Late Application?
For a late application, you must have your final Matric results, a certified copy of your South African ID, certified academic records, and proof of payment of the application fee if one is required.
You must submit these through the official application portals of the university or CAO.
Make sure all documents are correct and complete. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
Most universities list their required documents on their official websites.
Every year, some programmes fill up quickly even in the main application period.
For this reason, applying early gives you the best chance of acceptance. But late applications can still offer hope when space remains.