The 2026 academic year is underway, and if you’re a matriculant still looking for a place to study, late applications represent your last chance to secure a spot. While some of your peers may have received early acceptance offers, many students like you are still searching for opportunities.

At this stage, the higher education landscape can feel overwhelming: some universities have closed, others are focused only on registration, and a few are offering limited late application windows for courses that still have space.

This guide is designed for you, the student, to help you navigate late applications for both universities and TVET colleges, understand funding options, and make the most of backup systems like CACH.

Understanding University Late Applications in January 2026

When it comes to universities, you’ll find that in January, institutions fall into three categories:

1. Closed and Full: These universities are no longer accepting new applications. They are only registering students who were accepted earlier.
2. Registration Only: Some universities are solely focused on enrolling previously accepted students, meaning you cannot submit late applications.
3. Late Applications / Enquiry Systems Open: A few universities have limited windows for late applications or “change of mind” requests. These are usually for programmes that still have available spaces.

⚠️ Keep in mind: late applications are competitive. Meeting the minimum APS requirements does not guarantee a spot, so act fast and stay flexible.

University Late Application Status (As of 12 January 2026)

Universities Still Accepting Late Applications or Opening Soon

University	Status	What You Need to Know
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)	Opening soon (15 Jan)	You can submit your late application from 15 Jan until 1 Feb. Don’t miss this window if you missed the main deadline.
University of Johannesburg (UJ)	Opening 13 Jan	The late enquiry (Mobi) system opens 13 Jan evening. Keep checking official UJ channels.
Nelson Mandela University (NMU)	Opening 15 Jan	Online registration and late applications for selected programmes will open on 15 Jan.
Walter Sisulu University (WSU)	Opening 14 Jan	Late applications for courses with available spaces open 14 Jan.
Durban University of Technology (DUT)	Open via CAO	Late applications for select programmes (including Engineering) are available online.
University of Zululand (UNIZULU)	Open via CAO	You can submit new applications or change of mind requests until 28 Feb 2026.
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)	Open via CAO	Applications are online only. Physical walk-ins are not allowed, so track your application digitally.
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)	Restricted	High-demand courses (Medicine, Law, Education) usually do not accept late applications. Check your online status regularly.

Universities Closed for Late Applications

University	Status
Vaal University of Technology (VUT)	Closed
University of South Africa (UNISA)	Closed; registration ongoing
University of Cape Town (UCT)	Closed
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)	Closed
University of Pretoria (UP)	Closed; 2027 cycle opens 1 Apr 2026
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)	Closed; registration ongoing

Learn more: Common Mistakes Students Make When Applying for Bursaries

TVET Colleges: Your Flexible Alternative for 2026

If your preferred university is full, or you want a practical, hands-on route into the workforce, TVET colleges are a great option. Many TVET colleges operate rolling admissions, meaning that late applications are often still open for January 2026 intake.

TVET colleges focus on industry-aligned skills, helping you gain employment faster while keeping doors open for further studies.

Current Status of Major TVET Colleges

TVET College 2026 Survival Guide for You

1. Understand Your Qualification Options
   • NATED (Report 191): Semester-based (Business) or trimester-based (Engineering). If you miss January, you can often apply for the April/May intake.
   • NCV (National Certificate Vocational): A three-year, practical-focused programme equivalent to matric. Registration mainly occurs in January.
2. Pre-Entry Placement Test
   • Most TVET colleges require a placement test. This is not pass/fail; it ensures you are placed in the programme where you are most likely to succeed.
3. NSFAS Funding
   • You can qualify for full bursaries covering tuition, accommodation, and transport. Most colleges have on-site NSFAS offices to assist you during registration.
4. CACH: Your Safety Net
   • The Central Application Clearing House (CACH) reopens in mid-January 2026. If you remain unplaced, CACH matches your results with available spots across the country.

Tips for You to Secure a Late Application Spot

• Use digital walk-ins: Physical queues are no longer accepted.
• Act fast: Spots fill quickly; consider alternative programmes if your first choice is full.
• Check APS & minimum requirements: Have your matric results ready.
• Be ready to register immediately: Some institutions give only 24–48 hours to accept an offer.
• Verify all information: Always check official websites or contact the institution directly.

Next Steps for You

1. Make sure you have certified copies of your matric results and ID.
2. Apply online through official portals (CAO for KZN universities, Coltech for TVET colleges).
3. If January programmes are full, monitor portals for Trimester 2 (May intake).
4. Keep an eye on CACH if you are still unplaced mid-January.

Related: Register for the Matric Second Chance Programme 2026

How to Apply for Late Applications (Step-by-Step)

Applying during the late applications window can be stressful, as places are limited and timelines are tighter. Follow these steps carefully to improve your chances of success:

1. Check Programme & Space Availability

• Not all programmes are open for late applications — universities often restrict them to courses where spaces are still available.
• For high-demand programmes (like Medicine, Law, or Accounting), late applications are rarely accepted.
• Check the official university or TVET website or call the admissions office to confirm if late applications are open for your chosen field.

2. Access the Official Online Application Portal

• Almost all institutions in South Africa now require online applications.
• Visit the official admissions portal of the university or TVET college — do not rely on third-party sites to apply.
• For some universities (e.g., DUT, MUT), late applications are submitted through the CAO system (Central Applications Office).

3. Prepare and Upload All Required Documents

Before applying, ensure you have scanned, certified copies of:

• Your ID or Smart Card (both sides if applicable).
• Latest school results (Grade 11/12 or final certificates).
• Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill, affidavit).
• Academic transcripts if applying as a returning student or transfer.
• Supporting documents such as medical certificates (for disability support) if required.
• Make sure certification dates are within the last 6 months — expired certifications may cause delays.

4. Pay the Application Fee

• Most universities and TVET colleges require a non-refundable application fee (amount varies by institution).
• Payment must usually be made via EFT, bank deposit, or credit/debit card on the portal.
• Keep a digital copy of proof of payment and upload it with your application.
• If you qualify for a fee waiver (NSFAS applicants at some institutions), check if you can apply without paying.

5. Complete the Online Application Form

• Fill in your personal details, programme choice, and academic history carefully.
• Double-check your contact details (email and phone number) — this is how institutions will reach you.
• If applying to more than one programme, rank them in order of preference where possible.

6. Track Your Application Status

• After submission, you’ll receive a reference or student number — keep it safe.
• Use the university or TVET’s online application status checker to monitor your progress.
• Some institutions also send SMS or email updates — check your inbox and spam folder regularly.

7. Respond Quickly to Requests

• Admissions offices may request missing or additional documents.
• Submit them as soon as possible to avoid automatic disqualification.
• Keep your phone and email active — during late applications, response times are short.

8. Accept Your Offer Promptly

• If accepted, you’ll usually need to accept the offer online by a set deadline.
• Some universities also require an initial registration deposit to secure your place.
• If you don’t respond on time, your space may be offered to another student.

9. Apply for Funding (if needed)

• Late applicants can still apply for NSFAS funding (if within NSFAS deadlines).
• Submit all required financial documents immediately to avoid losing your funding opportunity.

10. Prepare for Registration & Orientation

• After acceptance, institutions will provide registration dates and requirements.
• Be prepared to attend orientation or induction sessions — these are often compulsory for first-time students.

Tips for Late Applicants

• Apply to multiple institutions to increase your chances.
• Choose programmes with higher intake capacity (e.g. Humanities, Business, Engineering at TVETs).
• Competitive programmes like Medicine or Law rarely accept late applications.
• Always contact admissions offices for clarification.
• Submit applications early within the late window to avoid last-minute website overloads.

Missing your university’s initial deadline does not mean the end of your 2026 academic journey. By acting quickly, exploring TVET colleges, and using digital late application systems and CACH, you can still secure your place this year.

TVET colleges provide practical skills, NSFAS funding, and flexible intake options, while universities still accepting late applications give you another opportunity to study your preferred course.

Take control of your 2026 academic future. Apply online, stay informed, and secure your spot today.

Disclaimer

The availability of late applications is subject to space availability, and institutions reserve the right to close applications once capacity is reached. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Always check directly with the institution for the latest updates and requirements.