The University of Mpumalanga (UMP), established in 2013 and based in Mbombela, offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes through a simplified online system. 

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This guide details all you need to know for applying for the 2026 academic year, based strictly on official UMP data and top-tier application guides.

When do UMP applications open for 2026?

UMP opened its online application portal on 1 June 2025, welcoming both undergraduate and postgraduate applicants to apply via ump.ac.za.

What are the application deadlines at UMP?

  • Undergraduate, honours, advanced diplomas, and postgraduate diplomas: 30 November 2025
  • Master’s and doctoral programmes: 30 January 2026
    Some academic programmes in high-demand fields may close earlier once capacity is reached.

What are the admission requirements for undergraduate entry?

  • South African NSC with a Bachelor’s pass is required.
  • Minimum rating of 4 (50–59 %) in at least four 20‑credit NSC subjects, plus English at programme-specific levels.
  • Each qualification has its own APS requirement (e.g. BA, BCom, Agriculture, Education, etc.)—consult the official UMP prospectus or website for exact minimums.

What are the postgraduate and international applicant requirements?

  • Postgraduate applicants must hold a relevant undergraduate degree, submit official transcripts, and for research degrees possibly a CV or proposal.
  • International undergraduates must include SAQA evaluation, certified passport copy, proof of English proficiency, and exemption documentation as needed.

How do I apply online to UMP?

  • Visit the official application portal at ump.ac.za, create an account, verify via email, and complete the multi-step application form.
  • Applicants may select up to two programme choices per application. Upload supporting documents and payment proof before submission.
  • Accepted file formats include PDF, JPG, TIFF, PNG, DOC/X, with file size limits as outlined on the portal.

What is the application fee and payment procedure?

  • South African applicants: R200 non-refundable application fee
  • SADC international applicants: R400
  • Other international applicants: R550
    Proof of payment must be uploaded as part of the application.

How can I check the status of my UMP application?

Upon submission, you receive confirmation containing a reference or student number.

You can track application status via the UMP student portal or correspondence from UMP.

Early application is advised to avoid missing deadlines or missing spots in full programmes.

1. When does UMP open applications?
Applications open on 1 June 2025 via ump.ac.za.
2. What are the application deadlines?
Undergraduate, honours and diplomas: 30 November 2025; master’s and doctorate: 30 January 2026.
3. What are the undergraduate entry requirements?
NSC with a Bachelor’s pass, APS criteria including English at minimum level 4 and specific programme levels. See UMP prospectus for details.
4. How do I upload documents?
Upload certified ID or passport, matric results or transcripts, proof of payment, SAQA certificate (if required), and English proficiency.
5. What is the application fee?
R200 for South African applicants; R400 for SADC international; R550 for others. Upload proof of payment with your application.
6. Can I apply for more than one programme?
Yes. You may select up to two programme preferences per application.
7. Do popular programmes close early?
Yes. Some high-demand programmes may close before the final deadline if capacity is reached.
8. How do international undergraduates apply?
Include SAQA evaluation, certified passport, English test results, and upload all documents via the online portal.
9. When will I receive an admission outcome?
You’ll receive a reference number upon submission. Outcomes are posted on the portal and communicated via email.
10. Where can I get help during the application?
Contact UMP at studentapplications@ump.ac.za or phone +27 13 002 0001.