The University of Venda (UNIVEN), located in Thohoyandou, Limpopo province, offers a wide range of undergraduate, diploma, certificate, and postgraduate programmes through its online application portal. 

This guide covers key dates, admission criteria, application steps, fees, document requirements, and status tracking for the 2026 academic year.

When do UNIVEN applications open for 2026?

Applications open on 1 April 2025 through the UNIVEN online portal on www.univen.ac.za. 

All applicants—undergraduate, postgraduate, South African, and international—must apply online.

What is the application deadline at UNIVEN?

The closing date for all qualifications—degrees, diplomas, certificates, honours, and postgraduate diplomas—is 26 September 2025. 

Late applications are rarely accepted and only considered if space remains.

What are the admission requirements for undergraduate entry?

  1. Degree programmes: NSC with a Bachelor’s pass and at least four 20‑credit subjects at level 4 (50–59 %), plus a minimum APS of 26.
  2. Diplomas: NSC with four level 3 (40–49 %) subjects minimum.
  3. Certificates: NSC as certified by Umalusi, no specific marks needed.
    Meeting minimum criteria does not guarantee admission, as programmes may have extra requirements based on demand or faculty rules.

What are the entry requirements for postgraduate and international applicants?

  1. Postgraduate applicants need a relevant bachelor’s degree, official transcripts, and if required, a research proposal or CV.
  2. International students must submit a certified passport copy, SAQA evaluation certificate for foreign qualifications, and English proficiency documents when applicable.
  3. Additional documentation like marriage/divorce certificates or parent/guardian ID (if under 21) may be required.

How do I submit my application online to UNIVEN?

  1. Go to www.univen.ac.za → click the “Apply Now” link → create a 5‑digit PIN → enter ID or passport, email, and mobile number → complete the online form and submit.
  2. You may save and return later to complete application stages.
  3. Upon submission, a UNIVEN student number is issued—this confirms your application has been logged, but is not an admission offer.

Is there an application fee for UNIVEN?

  • No fee is required for undergraduate and postgraduate applications—online submissions are free of charge for 2026 intake.
  • Earlier drafts that suggested fees may have applied for international students are outdated; the official online system shows no fee required.

How do I check the status of my UNIVEN application?

  • Log into My Access on UNIVEN’s portal using your student number and PIN—status updates such as “Application received” or “Offer made” are visible there.
  • For international students or applicants who need help, contact the Directorate of International Relations via email or phone using official contact details provided on the UNIVEN site.
1. When does UNIVEN open applications?
Applications open on 1 April 2025 via the official portal at univen.ac.za.
2. What is the application deadline?
Applications close at midnight on 26 September 2025; late submissions are rarely accepted.
3. Are there any application fees?
No. UNIVEN does not charge any application fees for undergraduate or postgraduate admission in 2026.
4. What are the requirements for degree study?
NSC with Bachelor’s pass, four subjects at level 4 and minimum APS of 26. Programmes may require higher marks or specific subjects.
5. How is the application submitted?
Register via the UNIVEN portal, create a PIN, upload documents, and submit. A student number confirms your application is recorded.
6. Do international applicants follow the same process?
Yes. International students apply online but must upload certified passport copy, SAQA evaluation, and proof of English proficiency if required.
7. What documents must be uploaded?
Certified ID/passport, Grade 11 or Matric results, transcripts (if applicable), SAQA certificate (if needed), and conduct certificate for transfers.
8. Can I apply for multiple programmes?
Yes—select up to two study options per application, ranked by your preference.
9. What if my application status doesn’t update?
You can contact UNIVEN admission staff listed on their “How to Apply” page for assistance via email/telephone.
10. Does meeting minimum APS guarantee admission?
No—admission is competitive and subject to programme capacity. Meeting APS is necessary but not sufficient.