Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), located in Ga‑Rankuwa, Gauteng, South Africa, offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes focused on health sciences.

Applications for the 2026 academic year are processed exclusively online via SMU’s official portal. 

When does Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University open applications for the 2026 academic year?

Online applications for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes open on 1 April 2025 via SMU’s official application portal on www.smu.ac.za.

What are the application deadlines for Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University programmes?

  • Undergraduate programmes (including most health-science degrees) close on 31 July 2025.
  • Postgraduate programmes (excluding research master’s and PhDs) close on 29 or 30 August 2025.

What are the minimum admission requirements for undergraduate entry?

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

What are the requirements for postgraduate and international applicants?

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

How do I apply online via SMU’s portal?

  1. Visit www.smu.ac.za → Apply @SMU → Online Application to start.
  2. Applicants are allowed up to two study choices per application; separate applications are required for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
  3. Register an account, upload required documents, pay the fee, and submit. Only online applications are accepted—no manual or walk-in submissions.

How much is the application fee and how do I pay?

A single non‑refundable application fee of R300 applies to all applicants (domestic and international), even if applying to both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

Payment can be made via bank deposit or online, using your South African ID or passport number as reference.

How can I track the status of my Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University application?

After submission, you receive a confirmation email including a reference number.

Application status can be checked via Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University’s student portal on the official website.

Final selection decisions typically occur in September–October for undergraduate applicants and between August–September for postgraduate applicants

1. When do SMU applications open?
Applications open on 1 April 2025 via smu.ac.za.
2. What are the closing dates?
Undergraduate programmes close on 31 July 2025; postgraduate applications close on 29–30 August 2025.
3. Is there 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.
5. How much is the application fee?
A flat fee of R300 applies for all applicants, regardless of programme type; pay 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 international?
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.