UCT 2026 Application Opening Dates, Admission Requirements, Funding, and More
If you’re planning to study at the University of Cape Town (UCT) in 2026, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know—from how to apply online and meet academic requirements, to where you can find bursaries, scholarships, and student loans in South Africa. UCT is one of the top-ranking universities in Africa, making it a preferred destination for thousands of students locally and internationally.
This article is designed for prospective undergraduate students who are looking for accurate, up-to-date information about UCT’s 2026 application process and how to secure funding for higher education in South Africa.
The University of Cape Town will open applications for the 2026 academic year on 1 April 2025 at 12:00 SAST. This is your chance to apply to one of Africa’s best universities and secure your spot before the deadline.
- Applications open: 1 April 2025
- Applications close: 31 July 2025
- UCT Open Day: 12 April 2025
- Last date to write NBTs: 4 October 2025
- Final Grade 12 results deadline: 15 January 2026
UCT does not accept late applications, so it’s important to apply well before the closing date.
Admission Requirements for UCT 2026
UCT offers undergraduate degrees in the following faculties:
- Faculty of Commerce
- Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment
- Faculty of Health Sciences
- Faculty of Humanities
- Faculty of Law
- Faculty of Science
Minimum Requirements for South African Applicants:
- A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Bachelor’s pass
- Minimum 50% in four designated subjects
- English Home Language or First Additional Language at level 4 (50–59%)
- Faculty-specific Admission Points Score (APS) or Faculty Points Score (FPS)
For international qualifications, such as A-levels, IB, or Cambridge, applicants must submit their final school results and a matriculation exemption certificate issued by Universities South Africa (USAf).
Application Fees for UCT 2026
Application fees must be paid before submission:
- South African citizens: R100
- SADC countries: R100
- International students (non-SADC): R300
- Graduate School of Business (GSB): R2,070 (Africa), USD 300 (international)
UCT will not process your application without proof of payment.
Financial Aid, Bursaries, and Scholarships for UCT Students
- Studying at university can be expensive, but UCT offers a wide range of funding options, including financial aid, government funding, and private student loans. This section targets high RPM AdSense keywords like student loans South Africa, university bursaries, and education finance.
Bursaries and Scholarships
- UCT Financial Aid: Based on household income (means-tested)
- UCT Merit Awards: For top-performing students
- Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship: Prestige award for academic excellence
- External Bursaries: Offered by organisations such as the NSF, Allan Gray, Sasol, and the Funza Lushaka bursary programme
UCT’s main campus is located on the slopes of Devil’s Peak in Cape Town. The university has multiple campuses:
- Upper, Middle, and Lower Campuses: For lectures, residences, and administration
- Medical School (Groote Schuur Hospital): Faculty of Health Sciences
- Hiddingh Campus: Humanities and Fine Arts
- Graduate School of Business: V&A Waterfront
UCT provides a vibrant student life with access to academic support, sports facilities, mental health services, and student societies.
To apply to UCT, follow these steps:
- Visit the official application website: https://applyonline.uct.ac.za
- Register for an account and create your profile
- Complete the online application form
- Upload certified copies of:
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South African ID or passport
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Final Grade 11 results or Grade 12 June results
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Application fee proof of payment
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- Choose up to two programmes of study
- Submit your application before the closing date
You will receive a confirmation email once your application has been submitted successfully.