North‑West University (NWU), a leading public university in South Africa with campuses in Potchefstroom, Mahikeng, and Vanderbijlpark, opens online applications for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies. 

When do NWU applications open for the 2026 intake?

Applications for the 2026 academic year open on 1 April 2025 via NWU’s official application portal on studies.nwu.ac.za.

What are the application deadlines at NWU?

  • Selection programmes (including Nursing, Music, Graphic Design): close on 30 June 2025.
  • All other programmes and residence applications: close on 31 August 2025.

What admission requirements must I meet for undergraduate study?

  • A National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent qualification with minimum achievement levels as specified per programme.
  • NWU calculates an APS score using your six best subjects, excluding Life Orientation; some programmes have specific subject and score thresholds.

What are the requirements for postgraduate or international applicants?

  • Postgraduate applicants must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree, supply transcripts, and for some programmes provide a research proposal or CV. Faculty-specific admission requirements apply, and some applications may take 4–6 weeks to process.
  • International applicants (undergraduate or postgraduate) must upload certified passport copies, academic results, SAQA evaluation for foreign qualifications, English proficiency proof (if required), and pay applicable fees.

How do I apply online through NWU’s portal?

  1. Go to studies.nwu.ac.za → Apply, register using a valid email address, receive a temporary password, and complete your profile and details.
  2. Upload supporting documents: certified ID or passport, matric results or transcripts, undertaking form, and fee payment proof.
  3. Submit and receive your university number, which does not imply acceptance, only that your application is registered.

Is there an application fee for NWU and how much is it?

  1. South African applicants: R150 non‑refundable application fee.
  2. International applicants: R600 (for new applicants) or R550 depending on faculty or local region.
  3. Postgraduate international applicants may be exempt if already enrolled at NWU. Payment instructions and bank details are provided on the form.

How can I track the status of my NWU application?

  • Log into the application portal using your email and password to view updates (e.g. “Application received”, “Offer made”).
  • Offers must be accepted on the portal to secure your place. Notifications are also sent via email or SMS, including reminders from NWU call centre and WhatsApp number service
1. When do NWU applications open?
Applications open on 1 April 2025 via studies.nwu.ac.za.
2. What are the NCU programme deadlines?
Selection programmes close on 30 June 2025; all other programmes and residence applications close on 31 August 2025.
3. What is the undergraduate entry requirement?
A valid NSC or equivalent with an APS calculated from your best six subjects; some fields require specific subjects and minimum scores.
4. Do international and postgraduate applicants have different requirements?
Yes. International applicants require SAQA evaluation, passport, certified documents, and often pay a different fee. Postgraduates may need research proposals/CV.
5. How do I apply online?
Register on the portal using your email, upload ID/results, pay the fee, and submit. You will receive a university number upon submission.
6. What is the application fee?
R150 for South African nationals; R600 for international applicants. Some postgraduate applicants may be exempt.
7. How do I track my application status?
Log into the NWU application portal and check your dashboard. Updates also sent via email, SMS, or WhatsApp.
8. Can I apply to multiple programmes?
Yes. Undergraduate applicants may select multiple programme choices. Check the portal for exact limits.
9. What if I need financial or access support?
Contact NWU support channels for inquiries about NSFAS, scholarships, or learning access support.
10. Who can assist with my application?
Contact NWU Call Centre at 0860 169 698, email [email protected], or WhatsApp +27 60 070 2606.