Your ultimate guide to applying Late Admission Applications — where you can still submit applications, how to apply, fees, and key deadlines
If you missed the main SA university and college application cycle for 2026, don’t panic! Many institutions still offer late admission opportunities — especially after matric results are released — giving you a second chance to secure a spot for first semester or second semester study.
In this blog post, you’ll find:
- 📍 Universities still accepting late applications
- 📍 How to apply — step-by-step
- 💸 Fees & costs involved
- 🎯 Tips for a successful late application
- 📅 TVET colleges accepting late applications
Let’s dive in.
🧠 What Are Late Admission Applications?
Late applications are applications submitted after the main application closing date for most universities and colleges. These windows usually open:
✔ After matric results are released (often around January each year)
✔ When institutions still have available spaces in programmes
✔ For select programmes only — not all courses remain open
Late applications are not guaranteed but can be your second chance if you missed the first deadline.
🏛️ Universities Still Accepting 2026 Late Applications
Not every university in South Africa accepts late applications, but a few key institutions are offering this opportunity, mainly between January and March 2026 after matric results.
📍 University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- Late application window: Typically around 14–19 January 2026.
- How to apply: Apply online via UJ’s official application portal.
- Fees: Online applications are usually free; manual applications may have a fee (e.g., R200). BeraPortal
📍 Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Late applications: Open for selected programmes into mid-January 2026.
- How to apply: Online via CPUT website; check specific programme availability.
- Fees: A nominal application fee applies (e.g., ~R100). BeraPortal+1
📍 University of South Africa (UNISA)
- Late period: Usually extends late window into late January 2026.
- How to apply: Apply on the UNISA portal for selected undergraduate and postgraduate diplomas.
- Fees: Standard UNISA application cost (often no extra late fee on online applications, but confirm on the portal). BeraPortal
📍 Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Status: Applications remain open for 2026 where spaces are available.
- How to apply: Via TUT’s online portal before courses fill up.
- Fees: Typical TUT application fee (often around R240). BeraPortal
📍 Other Institutions with Extended Periods
Depending on programme availability, Regenesys Education, Mancosa, Stadio, and University of Pretoria – Online also continue to accept applications into early 2026 (sometimes with multiple intakes). Programs and deadlines vary by faculty. Regenesys
🧠 Important: Spaces are limited during late applications, and not all courses or faculties will remain available. Always check directly with the university’s admissions office or online portal before applying. Regenesys
📋 How to Apply for Late University Admissions in 2026
Here’s a step-by-step guide to improve your chances:
1. Check Eligibility
✔ Ensure you meet minimum entry requirements for your chosen programme
✔ Have your matric certificate or latest results ready
✔ Prepare certified ID and supporting documents (e.g., motivation letters, portfolios for arts courses)
2. Visit the Official Application Portal
Go to the university’s official website — never rely on third-party sites or ads. Use the university’s admissions portal or contact the registrar’s office if unsure. Regenesys
3. Complete the Application Form
✔ Fill in your details precisely
✔ Upload required documents (matric results, ID, certified copies)
✔ Select the correct academic year (2026)
4. Pay Any Required Fees
Many universities have different fee structures for late applications — some may charge extra, others treat them as standard online applications. Always confirm the fee with the institution before submission. BeraPortal
5. Submit Before the Closing Date
Late application windows are short and competitive. Submit as early as possible once the window opens.
💸 Late Application Fees — What to Expect
Here’s a snapshot of common fees during late application cycles in SA:
🧾 Online Application Fees:
- Free for some universities (e.g., UJ online)
- Nominal online fee (~R100–R300) for institutions like CPUT, TUT, and others
📄 Manual/Application Centre Fees:
- Some universities charge a processing fee for manual or paper applications (e.g., UJ’s R200 option). BeraPortal
💡 Tip: Always verify the latest fee structures directly on the institution’s official site — these can change year to year.
🛠️ TVET Colleges – A Great Option for Late Applicants
If traditional university applications have closed, TVET colleges (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) are a valuable alternative — and many accept late applications based on available space. Varsity Wise
🧑🔧 Colleges Accepting Late Applications (2026)
Some TVET colleges open late applications from early January 2026 until the end of that month (e.g., 05 January – 31 January 2026), depending on space and demand. Varsity Wise
Examples include:
- Ikhala TVET College — various NCV and N4 programmes
- Goldfields TVET College — hospitality, office admin & tourism courses
- Motheo TVET College — occupational programmes
- Majuba TVET College — mechanical and hospitality courses
- Umgungundlovu TVET College — engineering & public management
- Letaba TVET College — business and financial management
- Nkangala & Northern Cape TVET Colleges — multiple vocational courses
👉 Courses range from NCV and NATED certificates to occupational and trade programmes — perfect choices if you want practical skills without the long wait for main university cycles. Varsity Wise
🛠️ How to Apply for TVET College Late Applications
Follow these simple steps:
1. Choose Your TVET College & Course
Visit the college’s official website or campus admissions desk.
2. Prepare Documents
✔ Certified ID
✔ Latest results (matric or NCV)
✔ Proof of residence
✔ Any specific programme requirements
3. Apply Online or In Person
Some colleges allow walk-in applications, while others prefer online submissions. Varsity Wise
4. Check Fees
TVET colleges often don’t charge a substantial application fee, but some may have small administrative costs. Always confirm before submitting. Varsity Wise
5. Submit Early
Late windows are short and highly competitive, so apply as soon as the window opens.
🧠 What Happens After You Apply
Once you submit your late application:
🔹 You’ll receive a confirmation email or SMS
🔹 Shortlisted applicants may get admission offers
🔹 You’ll then register and pay tuition
🔹 Residence or NSFAS funding options can still be explored during late cycles
📌 NOTE: If your late application is declined due to limited space, ask about waiting lists — some universities offer them, and you might still receive an offer if another student declines.
📌 Final Tips for Late Applicants
✅ Apply as early as possible once matric results are out (usually January)
✅ Prepare all documents ahead of time before starting applications
✅ Contact admissions offices for clarity on fees and deadlines
✅ Apply to multiple institutions to increase your chances
📍 Summary: Late Admissions at a Glance
| Category | Universities / Colleges | Late Application Status |
|---|---|---|
| Public Universities | UJ, CPUT, UNISA, TUT | Open Jan–Jan/early 2026 (spaces dependent) BeraPortal+1 |
| TVET Colleges | Ikhala, Goldfields, Motheo, Majuba, Umgungundlovu, Letaba, Nkangala, Northern Cape | Late applications open Jan 2026 (varies by college) Varsity Wise |
🎓 Final Thoughts
Missing the first application deadline doesn’t mean the end of your academic journey. Late admission windows are invaluable pathways into higher education — whether you aim for a university degree or a vocational qualification at a TVET college. But timing matters: once spaces are filled, late windows close.
Start your late application immediately after matric results, gather the correct documents, and don’t hesitate to contact admissions offices if you need help — your 2026 academic year starts with action, not regret!
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