Nelson Mandela University Online Applications for 2027: Dates, Requirements and How to Apply

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The Nelson Mandela University (NMU), a public university located in Gqeberha, South Africa, opens online applications each year for undergraduate, postgraduate and international students.

If you plan to study in 2027, it is important to know the correct application dates, programme deadlines, and required documents before applying. This guide explains the full process based on official NMU admissions information.

When Do NMU Applications Open for 2027?

Applications for the 2027 academic year are expected to open on 1 April 2026.

All applicants — South African, international, undergraduate and postgraduate students — can apply through the official application portal at mandela.ac.za.

Early application is recommended, especially for programmes with limited spaces.

Nelson Mandela University Application Deadlines for 2027

Closing dates vary depending on the programme.

Typical deadlines include:

• MBChB (Medicine): 30 June 2026
• BPharm (Pharmacy) and BRad (Radiography): around 29 or 30 June 2026 depending on the academic calendar
• Most other qualifications: early closing 1 August 2026, with a final deadline of 30 September 2026
• International applicants (excluding Medicine, Pharmacy and Radiography): 30 September 2026

Applicants should confirm the specific deadline for their programme before submitting their application.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

South African applicants must have:

• A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with Bachelor’s degree endorsement
• An Applicant Score (AS) calculated using the top six NSC subjects, excluding Life Orientation

In some cases, bonus points may apply for Life Orientation if the subject was taken at an under-resourced school.

International applicants must provide:

• A South African matriculation exemption certificate
• Certified final school results
• Passport copy
• Proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS where applicable

Some programmes have additional subject-specific requirements, so applicants should check faculty admission guidelines.

How to Apply Online at Nelson Mandela University

Applications are completed through the official website.

Steps to apply:

  1. Visit mandela.ac.za.
  2. Click Apply Now on the admissions page.
  3. Register with your email address.
  4. Complete your personal information and study choices.
  5. Upload the required documents.
  6. Confirm the declarations and submit the application.

After submission, applicants receive a reference number or student number that can be used to track the application.

Documents Required for NMU Applications

Undergraduate applicants generally need to upload:

• Certified Grade 11 final results or Grade 12 June/September results
• Certified matric certificate if already completed
• Certified ID document or birth certificate
• Guardian or surety ID and declaration where required
• Academic transcripts and conduct certificates for transfer students
• English proficiency documents if English was not the language of instruction

Postgraduate applicants may also need to submit additional documents such as:

• Academic transcripts
• CV
• Research proposal depending on the programme.

Nelson Mandela University Application Fees

Application fees depend on the applicant category.

• South African applicants: No application fee
• International applicants: R500 non-refundable fee

International applicants must upload proof of payment during the online application process.

How to Check Your NMU Application Status

After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation message containing your reference number or student number.

You can log in to the NMU student portal to track your application status, where updates such as:

• Application received
• Admission offered
• Documents outstanding

will appear.

Applicants are typically notified about important updates through email and SMS from the university admissions office.

1. When do NMU applications open for 2027?
Applications for the 2027 academic year are expected to open on 1 April 2026 for all applicants via mandela.ac.za.
2. What are the closing dates?
MBChB: 30 June 2026. BPharm & BRad: around 29–30 June 2026. All other qualifications: early closing by 1 August 2026, with the final deadline on 30 September 2026. International applicants also close on 30 September 2026.
3. Do international applicants pay a fee?
Yes. International applicants must pay a R500 non-refundable application fee, while South African citizens do not pay an application fee.
4. What documents must be uploaded?
Upload certified school results, ID or birth certificate, guardian or sponsor documents (if applicable), academic transcripts for transfers, and SAQA or English proficiency documents if required.
5. Are there subject-specific requirements?
Yes. Some programmes, especially in science, health and commerce, require specific subjects such as Mathematics or Physical Sciences and minimum percentages. Always check the relevant faculty requirements.
6. How do postgraduate applicants apply?
Postgraduate applicants apply through the same online portal. They must upload undergraduate transcripts, degree certificates, a CV or research proposal depending on the programme. Most programmes close by 30 September 2026.
7. How is Applicant Score (AS) calculated?
The Applicant Score is calculated using the six best NSC subjects, usually including language and required subjects such as Mathematics, and excluding Life Orientation. Additional bonus points may apply in certain contexts.
8. Can I apply late?
Late applications for most programmes may be considered until the 30 September 2026 final deadline if space is still available. Competitive programmes like MBChB usually do not accept late applications.
9. How do I check my NMU application status?
Log in to the NMU student portal using your reference number or student number. Application updates are also sent via email and SMS.
10. Who can I contact for assistance?
Call +27 41 504 1111 or email info@mandela.ac.za for general enquiries.