Walter Sisulu University (WSU)

Walter Sisulu University, known as WSU, is a comprehensive university with campuses across the Eastern Cape. It was formed on 1 July 2005 and now teaches more than 30,500 students. Its campuses in Mthatha, Butterworth, Buffalo City and Komani give students in the province several options close to home.

About WSU

WSU formed through a merger of three institutions: the Border Technikon, the Eastern Cape Technikon and the University of Transkei. As a result, it offers both university degrees and the career-focused diplomas of the former technikons. The university is named after Walter Sisulu, a leader in the struggle against apartheid.

The university has also restructured its academic offering. In 2023, its council decided to reduce its faculties from 12 to seven, and the university now reports seven academic faculties.

Campuses

WSU has four campuses: Mthatha, Butterworth (Gcuwa), Buffalo City and Komani. Together with its other delivery sites, it teaches at 13 sites spread across about 840 kilometres of the Eastern Cape. So check which campus offers your programme before you apply.

Applying to WSU

For the 2027 intake, WSU opened applications on 1 June 2026. International applications closed on 30 September 2026, and general applications closed on 31 October 2026. The university charges a late application fee for applications received after the closing date.

You apply online through the university's application system. Check the current application page for the fee and for any programme-specific requirements before you submit.

Fees and funding

Tuition varies by programme and campus. Residence adds to the cost if you live in university housing. Qualifying students can apply for NSFAS, and the Eastern Cape government and several municipalities also fund local students. Browse our bursaries to compare options.

Is WSU right for you?

WSU suits students who want to study in the Eastern Cape, with a choice between degrees and diplomas across four campuses. Its later closing date also helps if you missed other universities' deadlines.

Before you apply, decide which campus suits you best, because travel between them is long. Then check that your programme runs there, since not every course is offered on every campus.

Before you apply to WSU

Check the entry requirements for your programme, since diplomas and degrees set different subject levels. Make sure you apply before the general closing date, because late applications cost more. Keep your application reference number for tracking your outcome. If you need a residence, ask about housing at your chosen campus when you apply, since availability differs from site to site. Finally, confirm which campus offers your programme before you submit.