How to Apply to UCT

You apply to the University of Cape Town (UCT) online. For study in 2027, applications opened on 1 April 2026 and closed on 31 July 2026, and UCT does not consider applications that arrive after the closing date. Because this deadline falls in the middle of your matric year, plan your application well ahead.

Before you apply

Check the admission requirements for your programme, including any National Benchmark Test (NBT) requirement. Then work out your Faculty Points Score, using the method on the UCT admission requirements page. UCT holds an Open Day each year for learners in Grades 10 to 12 and their families, which is a good chance to ask questions before you apply.

Submitting your application

1. Complete the online application form before the closing date.
2. Wait for UCT to capture your application and send you your campus ID.
3. Pay the application fee, using your campus ID in the payment reference.
4. Send certified electronic copies of your results and documents to admissions@uct.ac.za.
5. Monitor your email and your online status for updates.

UCT asks you not to wait until the last day, because heavy traffic puts pressure on its systems. Send documents only to the admissions address, because sending them elsewhere delays your application.

The application fee

• South Africa and other SADC countries: R100
• Outside the SADC region: R300

UCT students and graduates, and Semester Study Abroad applicants, do not pay the fee, except for Graduate School of Business programmes. The fee is not refundable, and paying it does not guarantee you a place. You can pay by direct deposit, EFT or credit card, and credit card payments must be made online.

After you apply

UCT emails you whenever it updates your application, so watch your inbox closely. You can also check your status online with the login details that UCT sends you after it captures your application. Remember that UCT may consider your Grade 11 final, Grade 12 preliminary and Grade 12 final results, so keep working hard throughout matric.

Applying for residence

If you need university accommodation, look into UCT student housing early, because places are limited. Living costs in Cape Town are also high. If UCT offers you a residence place after early February, the first residence payment is due immediately, before you sign in. Plan your budget with the UCT fees page.

Getting help

For admission questions, contact the Admissions Office on 021 650 2128 or at admissions@uct.ac.za. Include your campus ID in every message, so that the office can find your application quickly.