How to Apply to North-West University (NWU) for 2026

1. Documents You’ll Need

Prepare certified copies (in PDF or image format) of:

• South African ID or passport

• Grade 11 final results or Matric certificate

• Academic transcripts (if applicable)

• Proof of payment (if not applying online or if requested for late uploads)

• Additional documents for specific programmes (e.g. portfolios or questionnaires)

2. Application Fee

• No application fee is required for online undergraduate applications.

• International applicants or postgraduate students may need to pay a fee depending on the faculty.

3. Application Dates

• Applications open: 1 April 2025

• Closing dates:

  • Most programmes: 31 August 2025

  • Health Sciences (e.g. MBChB, Nursing): 30 June 2025

  • Education and Social Work: 31 August 2025

Early application is strongly encouraged due to limited space in high-demand programmes.

4. Application Process: Step-by-Step

1. Go to the NWU online application portal: www.nwu.ac.za

2. Create a new user account using your ID or passport number.

3. Fill in your personal and academic details.

4. Select your programme(s) of interest (first and second choices).

5. Upload all required documents.

6. Review and submit the application.

7. You’ll receive a student/reference number and confirmation email.

5. After Submission

• Log into the NWU student portal to track your application.

• Check regularly for communication via email or SMS.

• If your application is successful, you will receive an official offer letter.

6. Admission Requirements (General)

• NSC (National Senior Certificate) or equivalent with a bachelor’s pass.

• English level 4 (minimum 50%) is typically required.

• Each faculty or programme may have specific requirements. Examples:

  • Engineering: Mathematics and Physical Science level 6+

  • Health Sciences: Life Sciences, Mathematics, and NBT scores

  • Education: Level 4+ in language of instruction and relevant subjects

NWU calculates an APS (Admission Point Score) based on your Grade 11 or Grade 12 results.

7. Contact Information

• NWU Contact Centre: 018 285 4320

• Email: [email protected]

• Website: https://www.nwu.ac.za

• Campuses: Mahikeng, Potchefstroom, Vanderbijlpark

Summary Table

Important Tips

• Apply early for programmes like Nursing, Medicine, and Education.

• Make sure your documents are legible and certified.

• Your application will only be processed once all required info is submitted.

• Check the faculty pages on the NWU site for programme-specific guidelines.