Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, located in Ga‑Rankuwa, Gauteng, South Africa, offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes primarily focused on health sciences. Applications for 2027 are processed exclusively online via SMU’s official portal.

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When does SMU open applications for 2027?

Online applications for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes open on 1 April 2026 through SMU’s official portal at www.smu.ac.za.

Application deadlines for SMU programmes

  • Undergraduate programmes (including most health-science degrees) close on 31 July 2026.
  • Postgraduate programmes (excluding research master’s and PhDs) close on 29 or 30 August 2026, depending on the programme.

Minimum admission requirements for undergraduate entry

  • National Senior Certificate with Bachelor’s pass status.
  • Pre-selection may consider Grade 11 results with a minimum APS of 37, including passing grades in English, Life Sciences, Physical Science, Mathematics, and Life Orientation.
  • Final admission is confirmed after Grade 12 results are released.

Requirements for postgraduate and international applicants

  • Postgraduate applicants: relevant bachelor’s degree, academic transcripts, and for research degrees, a CV or research proposal.
  • International applicants: certified passport copies, SAQA evaluation of foreign qualifications, proof of English proficiency if required, and study permit documentation during registration.

How to apply online via SMU’s portal

  1. Go to www.smu.ac.za → Apply @SMU → Online Application.
  2. Applicants can select up to two study choices per application; separate applications are required for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
  3. Register an account, upload all required documents, pay the application fee, and submit.
  4. Only online applications are accepted—manual or walk-in submissions are not allowed.

Application fee and payment

  • A non‑refundable R300 fee applies to all applicants, domestic and international, even if applying for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
  • Payment can be made via bank deposit or online, using your South African ID or passport number as reference.

Tracking your SMU application

  • After submission, a confirmation email with a reference number is sent to the applicant.
  • Application status can be checked via SMU’s student portal on the official website.
  • Final selection decisions are typically made September–October 2026 for undergraduate applicants and August–September 2026 for postgraduate applicants.
1. When do SMU applications open?
Applications open on 1 April 2026 via smu.ac.za.
2. What are the closing dates?
Undergraduate programmes close on 31 July 2026; postgraduate applications close on 29–30 August 2026.
3. Is there a minimum APS required?
Yes—pre-selection uses Grade 11 results with a minimum APS of 37 in key science subjects; final admission depends on Grade 12 outcomes.
4. What documents must be uploaded?
Certified ID or passport; Grade 11 or Grade 12 results; SAQA evaluation (if international); proof of payment; academic transcripts for postgraduate applications.
5. How much is the application fee?
A flat fee of R300 applies for all applicants, regardless of programme type; payment can be made online or via bank reference.
6. Can I apply for more than one programme?
Yes—you may choose up to two study options per application. Separate applications are required for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
7. Are late applications allowed?
Late or walk-in applications are not accepted. Apply early to secure a place in competitive programmes.
8. How do I track my application status?
Login to the SMU student portal using your reference or student number to view status updates after submission.
9. What if I’m an international applicant?
International applicants must provide SAQA evaluation, passport copy, English proficiency proof, and pay the same fee. A valid study permit is required before registration.
10. Where can I find help or contact SMU?
Visit SMU’s official site or email the admissions office via the contact links on the portal.