After you apply to Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), you can check the status of your application on the SMU website. SMU makes pre-selections on Grade 11 results and final selections in January. The guidance below comes from SMU's application FAQs and its registration notices.
When you hear back
- Grade 12 learners: SMU makes pre-selections between September and November using your Grade 11 results, and tells you the outcome. Final selections take place in January, after the Grade 12 results are released.
- Applicants who have already finished matric: SMU sends the outcome by the end of October.
Checking online
You can check your application status on SMU's website, especially after the Grade 12 results are released early in the year.
Final selection in 2026
For the 2026 intake, final selections for first-time entering students took place from 14 to 16 January 2026, after the matric results were released on 13 January. Admitted applicants received admission letters with registration information.
Register within three days
Once you accept your study offer, register within three days, or your place may be given to another applicant. In 2026, first-time entering students registered online from 21 to 30 January.
Pre-selection for medicine and dentistry
For the MBChB and BDS, SMU makes provisional offers on Grade 11 results. A pre-selection offer is withdrawn if your Grade 12 marks or APS drop below your Grade 11 performance, or below other applicants'. Your application then returns to the general pool.
Early firm offers
During MBChB pre-selection, SMU makes firm offers to the five best applicants who applied with final Grade 12 results from the year before and met all the requirements.
Your two choices
You may apply for two study choices, and SMU gives priority to first-choice applications because it receives so many. Applicants to medicine compete on the percentages in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Life Orientation and English.
Waiting lists
MBChB applicants with high scores who are not selected in the first round are placed on a waiting list, and considered on merit if selected applicants decline.
Complete documents
SMU does not process applications without all the required documents. If you do not submit them within two months, your application is not considered.
No late applications
SMU does not allow late applications or walk-ins. For 2027, undergraduate applications closed on 31 July 2026.
Getting help
Email application questions to enquiries@smu.ac.za, and include your ID number so that SMU can find your application. During registration, SMU also runs a call centre on 012 521 4204. See the SMU student portal page.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does SMU tell Grade 12 learners about pre-selection?
Between September and November, based on Grade 11 results.
How long do I have to register after accepting an SMU offer?
Three days.
Does SMU accept late applications?
No.