Nelson Mandela University Fees

Fees at Nelson Mandela University depend on your programme and the modules you take. Before you can register, you must make a down-payment and pay an enrolment fee. The figures below come from the university's 2026 student accounts guide, and the university says that fees usually rise by 5% to 10% a year.

Down-payments in 2026

• Degree programmes, full-time: R10,600
• Degree programmes, part-time: R6,200
• Diploma and certificate programmes, full-time: R7,500
• Diploma and certificate programmes, part-time: R5,200
• First-year medical degree: R22,900, including device and non-tuition levies
• Residences, all campuses: R8,600
• Enrolment fee: R1,770

Your student account must show a credit large enough to cover the down-payments before you can register. International students pay all fees in full before registration.

When the balance is due

The university sets payment deadlines by type of module. In 2026, first-semester modules were due by 30 April, year modules by 20 June, and second-semester modules by 30 September. The university does not extend these dates or allow instalment arrangements beyond them, and not receiving a statement does not change your obligation to pay.

The enrolment fee

The R1,770 enrolment fee is charged every year at registration, and it is not refundable. For semester one qualifications, it is due by 30 April. For year qualifications, it is due by 20 June, and for semester two qualifications by 30 September.

Interest and late enrolment

The university charges interest at the prime rate on overdue amounts, calculated monthly, and it does not reverse interest once raised. If you enrol after the published dates, you pay a late enrolment fee of R1,000. If you enrol after the payment due date of a module, the full cost of the module is payable upfront.

Residence fees

In 2026, official university residences cost about R41,100 a year for a single room and R36,400 for a double room in several residences. You can also pay per semester, at half the annual amount.

If you do not pay

The university withholds the academic records and exam results of students who do not settle their accounts by the payment dates, and it does not issue their certificates. If someone else pays your fees, it is your job to forward your statements to them.

Sponsored students

If a sponsor or bursary pays your fees, the sponsor must pay the university directly. You remain liable for interest on any shortfall that the bursary does not cover by the due dates.

Funding your studies

The university offers bursaries, merit awards, scholarships and study loans to full-time students, mostly based on financial need. Qualifying students can also apply for NSFAS. Browse our bursaries, or read the Nelson Mandela University overview.