If you’ve been dreaming of studying at a vibrant and growing institution in South Africa, now’s your chance. The University of Mpumalanga (UMP) has officially opened its 2026 applications, inviting ambitious students to apply early and secure their place at one of Mzansi’s most promising universities.
Whether you’re a first-time undergraduate, an honours hopeful, or chasing your master’s or doctoral dreams, this guide breaks down everything you need to know from key deadlines to the step-by-step application process.
About the University of Mpumalanga (UMP)
Established as a forward-thinking institution with a vision to create opportunities, the University of Mpumalanga (UMP) is one of South Africa’s fastest-growing universities. With over 11,800 registered students, UMP offers a vibrant academic environment across two campuses: Mbombela and Siyabuswa.
The student body is made up of 63% female and 37% male students, with almost all enrolments coming from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
UMP proudly offers a diverse range of 81 accredited qualifications, including:
- 2 Higher Certificates
- 6 Diplomas
- 13 Bachelor’s Degrees
- 7 Advanced Diplomas
- 4 Postgraduate Diplomas
- 27 Honours Degrees
- 16 Master’s Degrees
- 6 Doctoral Degrees
Whether you’re interested in agriculture, education, science, or hospitality, UMP delivers programmes that are both relevant and responsive to the needs of South Africa’s evolving economy. Its state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to inclusive excellence make it an ideal destination for students who want to grow, lead, and create change.
UMP 2026 Application Opening Date
Applications officially opened on: 01 June 2025
From this date, prospective students can start submitting their applications through UMP’s online application portal.
Closing Dates by Programme
Timing is everything make sure you don’t miss your deadline!
1. Undergraduate Programmes (Diplomas & Bachelor’s Degrees)
Closing Date: 30 November 2025
If you’re finishing Grade 12 or upgrading your marks, apply before the November cut-off to be considered for the 2026 intake.
2. Honours, Advanced Diplomas & Postgraduate Diplomas
Closing Date: 30 November 2025
These programmes close on the same day as undergrad applications, so don’t leave it to the last minute.
3. Master’s Programmes (Research & Coursework)
Closing Date: 30 January 2026
Planning to level up with a master’s degree? You’ve got a bit more time, but don’t get too comfortable—apply early to avoid last-minute stress.
4. Doctoral Programmes
Closing Date: 30 January 2026
PhD hopefuls, this is your timeline too. Ensure your research proposal and supporting documents are ready well in advance.
Faculties and Schools at the University of Mpumalanga
The academic framework at UMP is structured into Faculties and Schools, each responsible for delivering specialised, career-focused qualifications. Every qualification is housed within a specific School, and these Schools fall under broader Faculties. Currently, the University of Mpumalanga comprises three Faculties and eight Schools.
1. Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences
Schools:
- School of Agricultural Sciences
- School of Biology and Environmental Sciences
- School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences
Research Focus Areas:
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- Environmental and Socio-economic Sustainability
- Agricultural Extension and Rural Resource Management
- Biodiversity Conservation and Development
- Plant and Animal Production
This Faculty is ideal for students passionate about sustainability, environmental sciences, and innovation in agriculture and tech.
2. Faculty of Education
School:
- School of Early Childhood Education
Focused on shaping the future of learning, this Faculty specialises in qualifications related to teaching and foundational education, with a strong emphasis on child development and curriculum delivery.
3. Faculty of Economics, Development and Business Sciences
Schools:
- School of Social Sciences
- School of Development Studies
- School of Hospitality and Tourism Management
This Faculty offers a diverse mix of qualifications across business, social development, tourism, hospitality, law, and humanities, preparing students for both the public and private sectors.
Undergraduate Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Commerce (General)
- Bachelor of Administration
- Bachelor of Development Studies
- Diploma in Hospitality Management
- Advanced Diploma in Hospitality Management
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Higher Certificate in Event Management
- Diploma in Culinary Arts
- Bachelor of Social Work
- Bachelor of Arts in Media, Communications & Culture
Postgraduate Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Development Studies Honours
- Postgraduate Diploma in Hospitality Management
- Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Economics
- Bachelor of Arts Honours in English, Sociology, Gender Studies, Psychology, Industrial Psychology, Siswati, IsiNdebele, Culture and Heritage Studies, Political Science, and Archaeology
- Bachelor of Administration Honours
- Master of Arts
- Master of Commerce
- Master of Development Studies
- PhD in Development Studies
Whether you’re interested in policy, entrepreneurship, or heritage studies, this Faculty supports a wide academic and career path spectrum.
Find bursaries here
How to Apply Online at the University of Mpumalanga
Applying to UMP is easy when you know what to expect. Follow this step-by-step guide to complete your online application with confidence.
Before You Begin
Make sure you have clear electronic copies of the following documents (in pdf, doc, docx, tiff, png, jpg, or jpeg format):
- Certified copy of your ID or passport
- Senior Certificate or National Senior Certificate
- Any other relevant academic records or transcripts
- Proof of payment for the non-refundable application fee:
- R200 for South African applicants
- R400 for SADC applicants
- R550 for other international applicants
Step-by-Step UMP Online Application Process
Step 1:
Go to the UMP application page and click “Apply”. Read and accept the application rules, then click “Continue.”
Step 2:
Fill in your biographical information, then click “Next.”
Step 3:
Enter your school results, add your subjects, then click “Next.”
Step 4:
Provide details of your previous or current educational institution, then click “Next.”
Step 5:
Choose up to two study programmes (your first and second choices). Click “Add Qualification”, then hit “Next.”
Step 6:
Double-check all your application details. If everything looks good, click “Continue.”
Step 7:
Create a secure 5-digit PIN (e.g. 24689). Tick both “I accept” checkboxes, then click “Submit Application.”
Step 8:
Start uploading your documents. From the dropdown, select “Yes” if you’re ready, then click “Next.”
Step 9:
Click: “Load/View Document” → “Upload Document” → “Choose/Browse File”
Select the document from your device and click “Save.”
Step 10:
After uploading all required documents, click “Complete Upload.”
Step 11:
You’ll be taken to a confirmation page. this means you’ve successfully completed your application!
Pro Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply early. Don’t let deadlines sneak up on you, early birds catch the funding!
- Double-check your documents. Incomplete or incorrect applications may be disqualified.
- Keep your reference number safe. You’ll need it to track your application progress.
- Follow up on funding. If you need financial aid, apply to NSFAS, bursaries, or university scholarships as soon as possible; don’t wait until you’ve been accepted.
Make 2026 the Year You Study at UMP
The future is yours why not study somewhere that’s just as ambitious as you are? Whether you’re aiming for a diploma, degree, or doctorate, the University of Mpumalanga is ready to welcome the class of 2026 with open arms.
Start your application today and take that first bold step toward your future!