Which Universities are Open for 2025. As prospective students prepare for their academic journeys in 2025, it is crucial to know which universities are open for applications. Below is a comprehensive list of universities in South Africa that are accepting students for the 2025 academic year, along with a brief overview of each institution.
Which Universities are Open for 2025
1. University of Cape Town (UCT)
Located in the picturesque city of Cape Town, UCT is renowned for its academic excellence and vibrant campus life. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
2. North-West University (NWU)
NWU has multiple campuses across the North-West Province, providing diverse programs and a supportive learning environment.
3. University of the Free State (UFS)
UFS is situated in Bloemfontein and is known for its strong research output and community engagement initiatives.
4. University of Pretoria (UP)
UP is one of South Africa’s largest and oldest universities, offering comprehensive programs across various fields of study.
5. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
Located in Port Elizabeth, NMU is named after the iconic leader Nelson Mandela and is known for its commitment to social justice and innovation.
6. Sol Plaatje University (SPU)
SPU, in Kimberley, is one of South Africa’s youngest universities, established to expand access to higher education in the Northern Cape.
7. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
UJ, with its main campus in Johannesburg, is a dynamic institution offering a range of programs geared towards global excellence and stature.
8. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
UKZN operates across five campuses in KwaZulu-Natal, known for its diverse academic offerings and research initiatives.
9. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
CPUT, the only university of technology in the Western Cape, focuses on applied sciences and technology programs.
10. Stellenbosch University (SU)
SU, located in the heart of the Western Cape’s Winelands, is a prestigious institution known for its research and academic rigor.
11. University of Limpopo (UL)
UL is dedicated to providing higher education in the Limpopo Province, with strong programs in health sciences, humanities, and agriculture.
12. Central University of Technology (CUT)
CUT, located in the Free State, specializes in practical, career-oriented education and research.
13. Rhodes University
Situated in Grahamstown, Rhodes is known for its strong emphasis on journalism, humanities, and science programs.
14. Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
VUT, based in Vanderbijlpark, offers a variety of technology-focused programs aimed at addressing industry needs.
15. Durban University of Technology (DUT)
DUT provides a range of programs across its multiple campuses in Durban and Pietermaritzburg, with a strong emphasis on technology and applied sciences.
16. University of the Western Cape (UWC)
UWC, in Bellville, Cape Town, is recognized for its commitment to the upliftment of historically marginalized communities.
17. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Wits, located in Johannesburg, is one of South Africa’s premier universities, known for its research, medical school, and humanities programs.
18. Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
SMU, based in Pretoria, is a dedicated health sciences university focusing on medical and health-related programs.
19. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
TUT, with several campuses across Gauteng, is the largest residential university in South Africa, offering a wide array of technical and vocational programs.
20. University of Mpumalanga (UMP)
UMP, one of the newest universities in South Africa, aims to provide accessible and relevant higher education in the Mpumalanga Province.
21. University of South Africa (UNISA)
UNISA is Africa’s largest open-distance learning institution, providing flexible learning opportunities for students worldwide.
22. University of Venda (UNIVEN)
UNIVEN, located in Thohoyandou, focuses on serving the educational needs of the rural population in Limpopo.
23. Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
MUT, in Durban, offers vocational and technical programs aimed at equipping students with practical skills.
24. University of Fort Hare (UFH)
UFH, with campuses in Alice and East London, has a rich history as a center for African intellectual leadership and political activism.