How to Apply and Prepare for Admission at the University of Pretoria (UP)

 

 

The University of Pretoria (UP) is one of South Africa’s leading research and teaching institutions, known for academic excellence and producing globally competitive graduates.

Whether you’re a matriculant or a student seeking further studies, getting admitted to UP requires careful preparation and understanding of the application process, requirements, and funding opportunities.

This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to apply and prepare for admission, outlines key courses offered, and includes a detailed overview of the NSFAS funding application.

Understanding the Admission Process at UP

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying

1. Visit the UP Online Application Portal
   • Website: www.up.ac.za/online-application
   • Applications usually open in April and close end of June or August depending on the course.
2. Register and Complete the Online Application
   • Create a profile on the portal.
   • Fill in your personal information, academic background, and program of choice.
   • Upload certified copies of required documents (ID, Grade 11/12 results, etc.).
3. Submit Your Application
   • Double-check that all required fields are completed before submitting.
   • Pay the non-refundable application fee (if applicable).
4. Track Your Application
   • You can track your application status via the UP Student Portal.

Admission Requirements

UP has specific admission requirements that differ by faculty and program. However, general requirements include:

General Undergraduate Admission Requirements:

• National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent.
• Language of instruction: Minimum 50–60% in English (Home or First Additional Language).
• APS Score: Each program has a required Admission Point Score (APS).
  • For example, Bachelor of Commerce: Minimum APS of 30.
  • Engineering programs: APS of 35–38 with high marks in Mathematics and Physical Science.

Documents Needed:

• Certified ID copy
• Final Grade 11 or latest Grade 12 results
• Proof of payment (application fee)
• Any additional requirements per course (portfolios, auditions, etc.)

Popular Faculties and Courses Offered at UP

UP offers a wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Here are some of the key faculties and example programs:

Faculties & Courses:

• Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
  • BCom in Accounting
  • BCom in Marketing Management
• Faculty of Humanities
  • BA in Psychology
  • BA in Political Sciences
• Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and IT
  • BEng in Civil Engineering
  • BSc in Information Technology
• Faculty of Health Sciences
  • MBChB (Medicine)
  • Bachelor of Nursing Science
• Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
  • BSc in Agricultural Economics
  • BSc in Biological Sciences
• Faculty of Education
  • BEd in Foundation Phase
  • BEd in Senior Phase and FET

For a full list of courses, visit: www.up.ac.za/programmes

 

 

Applying for NSFAS at UP – Funding Your Studies

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial support to qualifying South African students. UP students who meet the criteria can apply through the NSFAS website.

Who Qualifies?

• South African citizens.
• Combined household income of less than R350,000 per annum.
• Registered or intending to register at a public university or TVET college.
• SASSA grant beneficiaries automatically qualify.

What Does NSFAS Cover?

• Tuition fees
• Accommodation (university residence or private)
• Transport
• Meals
• Learning materials
• Personal care allowance

How to Apply for NSFAS:

1. Visit: www.nsfas.org.za
2. Click “myNSFAS” and create an account.
3. Login and complete the application form.
4. Upload certified documents:
   • ID document or birth certificate
   • Parent(s)/guardian(s) ID documents
   • Proof of income or SASSA letter
   • Grade 12 results or latest academic record
5. Submit before the closing date (usually around January each year for the next academic year).

Note: You must reapply for NSFAS every academic year unless stated otherwise.

Final Tips for a Successful Application:

• Apply Early: Both UP and NSFAS applications have deadlines. Late applications are not accepted.
• Double-check documents: Ensure all copies are certified and readable.
• Meet APS and subject requirements: Carefully read program-specific requirements before choosing your course.
• Stay updated: Follow UP’s official social media and website for updates.
• Prepare for life on campus: Look into accommodation, orientation programs, and student support services.

Getting into the University of Pretoria is a major step toward a successful academic and professional future. With the right preparation and support from programs like NSFAS, you can unlock the doors to world-class education and opportunity.

EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS OR UNIVERSITY APPLICATIONS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR SCAM/FRAUD ALERT PAGE HERE

 

 

You May Also Like…

How to Apply and Prepare for Admission at the University of Cape Town (UCT) for 2026

NSFAS Allowances for University and TVET College Students in 2025: A Comprehensive Overview

How to Apply and Prepare for Admission at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) for 2026