Starting your journey at the University of Cape Town (UCT) in 2026? Registration is the first essential step in becoming part of the UCT community. Whether you are a first-year student or returning for postgraduate studies, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the UCT 2026 registration process, key deadlines, and what you need to prepare.
Why Registration Matters
UCT registration is more than just filling out forms – it grants you:
- Access to your academic programme and course materials
- Use of UCT’s campuses, libraries, and facilities
- Eligibility for student funding and financial aid
- Academic credit for your chosen courses
- A direct link to your supervisors (for postgraduates)
To avoid delays, ensure that all administrative requirements are completed before you start the registration process.
RELATED: Wits University Registration 2026 – Dates & Key Info
Key UCT 2026 Registration Dates
Each faculty has specific registration timelines. Missing your allocated dates can delay your academic start. Here are the key dates to note:
| Activity | Dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Online Registration | 19 Jan – 13 Feb 2026 | Check your faculty page for exact deadlines |
| Assisted In-Person Registration | 21 Jan – 7 Feb 2026 | Upper Campus – faculty-specific support |
| First-Year Reception | 31 Jan – 2 Feb 2026 | New undergraduate students only |
| Orientation | 2 – 13 Feb 2026 | Essential for all first-years |
| Start of Semester 1 | 16 Feb 2026 | Classes officially begin |
Tip: Bookmark your faculty’s registration page to keep up with updates. You’ll find detailed info on programme-specific steps there.
UCT 2026 Registration Process: Step-by-Step
1. Complete Your Admin Requirements
Before registering, ensure that:
- All your academic documents have been submitted
- You’ve received your official admission letter
- Financial aid applications (if applicable) are processed
- International students have cleared immigration holds
Log in to the Student Administration System (PeopleSoft) to view your holds and registration status.
2. Choose Your Registration Mode
UCT offers both online and assisted (in-person) registration:
- Online Registration: Ideal for students with straightforward course choices. Follow the prompts via PeopleSoft.
- Assisted Registration: Recommended if you need academic advice or have outstanding queries. This takes place on Upper Campus.
3. Register for Your Courses
Select your courses as per your programme requirements. Confirm credit limits and time slots to avoid clashes.
If unsure, contact your faculty’s academic advisor for help.
Special Info for International Students
International students must pre-register through the UCT International Office. This includes:
- Uploading visa and study permit documentation
- Clearing immigration and fee holds via service requests
- Ensuring health insurance compliance
👉 Visit the International Student Support page for a full breakdown.
Important: You won’t be able to register until all holds are cleared. Start this process early!
What First-Year Students Should Know
Starting your university journey is exciting and a bit overwhelming. Here’s what to expect:
First-Year Campus Reception
Dates: 31 January – 2 February 2026
This welcome event introduces you to the campus, fellow students, and key support staff.
Orientation Programme
Dates: 2 – 13 February 2026
Get familiar with UCT systems, student life, academic expectations, and student organisations.
Helpful Resources
- UCT Student Admin Portal: For all registration tasks
- International Office Website: For visa and immigration queries
- Faculty-specific pages: These contain programme-specific requirements and dates
Use these pages regularly to check for updates and alerts.
RELATED: University of Johannesburg Registrations for 2026
FAQs: UCT 2026 Registration
Can I register late?
Late registration may be allowed, but it could delay your academic progress. Contact your faculty urgently if you miss the deadlines.
What if I have a financial hold?
You will need to resolve fee-related issues before registering. Contact the UCT Finance Office or the Financial Aid unit for support.
Do I need to be in Cape Town to register?
Not necessarily. Online registration allows you to register remotely. However, in-person assistance is available if needed.
The UCT 2026 registration process is designed to ensure that every student is ready for a successful academic year. Start early, stay informed, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help if needed.
Once registered, immerse yourself fully in campus life from academic engagement to social exploration.