UWC online application 2026: Courses, requirements, dates and fees
The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is a public research university in Bellville, close to Cape Town. The institution has digitised its application process, making it easy to access its services and apply for courses. Prospective students are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the UWC online application in 2026 and to apply early enough to secure admission.
Source: UGC
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Key takeaways
- UWC online application in 2026: All you should know
- When can you apply to UWC in 2026?
- Which applications are still open for 2026?
- Does UWC consider late applications?
- Does UWC offer online courses?
- How do you apply to join UWC?
- When can you apply to join UWC?
- How much is the registration fee for UWC in 2026?
- Which is better, UJ or UWC?
Key takeaways
- All applicants must submit applications exclusively online via the UWC application portal.
- UWC does not charge an application fee for prospective students.
- Applicants may apply for a maximum of two program choices.
- Grade 12 learners and post-matriculants should prepare their NSC results and other documents.
UWC online application in 2026: All you should know
The University of the Western Cape (UWC) was established in 1959 by the South African apartheid government as a university for Coloured people only. Today, it has been integrated and is a multiracial institution.
UWC online application - 2026 opening date
The University of the Western Cape online applications for the 2027 academic year are scheduled to open on 1 April 2026, and the expected UWC application deadline in 2026 is 30 September 2026.
It is highly recommended to apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues and ensure all documentation is submitted on time.
UWC online application
Below are the steps you should follow to submit your UWC online application in 2026 for undergraduate courses:
- Visit the UWC website.
- Applicants must have a valid email address to apply online.
- Click Apply under the Admission and Financial Aid tab on the homepage.
- You will be redirected to the UWC student portal for the application.
- Click Apply Now, then New Application if you are applying for the first time or Edit Application if you are a returning person.
Source: Original
- Follow the prompts to create an account. Note your UWC login details for your application, as you will need them when doing a status check.
- Log in to your account. An application form will appear on your screen. Fill it out, ensuring all details are accurate. Note that you can only apply for a maximum of two programs.
- Attach the required documents (if asked), then click Submit.
- After you successfully submit your application, you will receive an email from the university acknowledging the receipt of your application. Your application number will be indicated in this email. You will also receive a brochure that shows the supporting documents that you would be required to submit to the university if you want your application to be considered.
- Once you have all the required documents, visit the portal again to upload them. You will need your application number and identification or passport number to do this.
UWC admission requirements
Depending on the programme you are pursuing, there are specific UWC requirements that each category of applicants needs to meet to join the university.
General requirements for a Bachelor's degree
Below are the requirements for a Bachelor's degree.
- National Senior Certificate (NSC).
- An achievement rating of 4 (Adequate achievement, 50-59%).
- Alternatively, four subjects are chosen from the recognised 20-credit NSC subjects, also known as the 'designated subject list'. These subjects include History, Consumer Studies, Information Technology, Accounting, Agricultural Sciences, Business Studies, Engineering Graphics and Design, Dramatic Arts, Economics, and Geography.
- You also need languages, i.e., a language of learning and teaching at a higher institution of learning, and two other language subjects that are recognised. Other subjects include Religion Studies, Visual Arts, Life Sciences, Mathematics, Music, Physical Sciences, and Mathematical Literacy.
General requirements for a diploma course
Below are the requirements for you to pursue a diploma course.
- A minimum of a National Senior Certificate based on Umalusi's certification.
- An achievement rating of 3 (moderate achievement, 40-49%).
- Alternatively, you need four recognised subjects based on the NSC 20-credit subjects.
- A National Senior Certificate is the minimum admission requirement for the Higher Certificate, and Umalusi must certify that.
Source: UGC
UWC application documents
Various documents will be required when making your UWC online application.
Post-Matric learners
Should you have written the NSC examination, the following are the documents that you will be required to submit:
- Certified copy of your identification document
- Certified copy of your NSC certificate or Senior Certificate
- If you have completed any studies, you need to provide proof of your academic records.
- If you are improving on your NSC results, you will also need proof.
- Submit an affidavit that states a brief description of your NSC/post-matric activities.
Note: As an applicant, if you are rewriting Grade 12 subjects, your application will be processed based on your current Grade 12 results. In case you have written Grade 12 more than once, you need to submit the combined results alongside your application.
Transfer students
In case you are applying from a different higher institution of learning, the certified copies of these documents need to be submitted together with your application:
- Identification document
- Official academic transcript
- NSC Certificate or Senior Certificate
- Certificate of good conduct from your institution
- Yearbook descriptor/Module content for all modules you have completed from your institution.
- Your degree certificate, if it applies to you.
International students
If you are an international student, you will need the following documents:
- You need to submit a confirmation letter that you have obtained from Universities South Africa (USAF) that states your qualification to study at a university in South Africa.
- A certified copy of your passport.
- Universities South Africa (USAF) needs to evaluate your final school results.
- You need to get a request for exemption from Universities South Africa (USAF)
Post-graduate students
Documents needed for the UWC postgraduate application in 2026 are:
- A short Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Official academic transcripts/record of results.
- Certified copy of an identification document. If you are an international applicant, you must submit a SAQA evaluation certificate and a certified copy of your passport.
- A one-page letter of motivation.
- If you are a master's or doctoral applicant, you must submit a short research proposal.
- Certified copies of degree certificates.
How do you check your UWC application status?
You can conduct a UWC application status check in 2026 after submitting your application. Follow the steps below to confirm the status of your application.
- Visit the official university website.
- Click Apply under the Admission and Financial Aid tab on the homepage.
- Scroll down to the Check Status option close to the bottom of the page and click on it.
- You will be redirected to the UWC student portal.
- Enter your UWC login details to view the status of your application.
- Below are the likely responses you will see when you follow the steps above.
Response | Meaning |
Final Decision | You have met the minimum entry requirements but are yet to be selected for a slot |
Pending/ Awaiting Approval | Your details are under consideration, and a final decision is yet to be made |
No change in portal | High likelihood you are unsuccessful |
What can you study at UWC?
The following are the courses offered at the institution. They have been grouped based on their faculties.
Faculty of Arts and Humanities
Below are all the programs offered under this faculty.
- Postgraduate Diploma in Library and Information Studies
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Theology
- Bachelor of Library and Information Studies
- Master's of Arts
- Master's of Library and Information Studies
- Master's of Philosophy
- Master's of Philosophy in Theology
- Master's of Theology
- Doctor of Theology
- Doctor of Philosophy
Faculty of Community and Health Sciences
Below are all the programs offered by the community and health sciences faculty.
- Bachelor of Social Work
- BA Sport, Recreation and Exercise Science
- BSc Dietetics
- BSc Public Health
- BSc Psychology
- BSc Sport and Exercise Science
- BSc Occupational Therapy
- BSc Physiotherapy
- BSc in Nursing
- Bachelor of Medical Sciences
- BSc Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture
- BSc Complementary Health Science
- BCM Complementary Medicine: Naturopathy
- BCM Complementary Medicine: Phytotherapy
- MSc. Nutrition Management
- MSc. Occupational Therapy
- MSc. Occupational Therapy (Structured)
- MSc. Physiotherapy (Thesis)
- MSc. Public Health in Nutrition
- Master's of Physiology
- Master's in Nursing (Thesis)
- MPH Public Health
- MPsych Clinical
- MPsych Counselling
- MSW Social Work (Thesis)
- MSc Biokinetics
- MSc Nutrition
- Master's of Philosophy in Sport for Development
- MA Biokinetics
- MA Child and Family Studies
- MA Child and Family Studies (Research)
- MA Psychology (Structured)
- MA Psychology (Thesis)
- MA Sports Recreation and Exercise Science
Source: UGC
Faculty of Dentistry
Below are the programs offered by the faculty of dentistry.
- BSc in Oral Health
- BSc in Dental Surgery
- BSc in Conservative Dentistry
- BSc in Orthodontics
Faculty of Education
Below are all the programs offered under this faculty.
- BEd Languages and Life Orientation
- BEd Languages and Mathematics
- BEd Languages and Social Sciences
- BEd Maths and Natural Sciences
- BEd Foundation Phase Teaching
- BEd Language and Life Orientation
- BEd Languages and Social Sciences
- BEd Maths & Languages
- BEd Natural Science and Maths
Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
Below are all the programs offered under this faculty.
- Bachelor of Administration
- Bachelor of Commerce
- BCom Financial Accounting
- BCom Accounting
- BCom (Law)
- BEcon Development Economics
- BCom Human Resources
- BCom Economic
- BCom Management
Faculty of Law
This faculty offers a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) (5-year stream).
Faculty of Natural Sciences
Below are all the programs offered under this faculty.
- BSc Environmental and Water Science
- BSc Biotechnology
- BSc Biodiversity and Conservation Biology
- BSc Medical Biosciences
- BSc Chemical Sciences;
- BSc Applied Geology
- BSc Mathematical & Statistical Science;
- BSc Computer Science
- BSc Physical Science
- Bachelor of Pharmacy
- MPhil Integrated Water Resource Management
- MPhil Population Studies
- MSc Petroleum Geology
- MSc Applied Geology
- MSc Biodiversity & Conservation Biology
- MSc Bioinformatics
- MSc Biotechnology (1St Enrl)
- MSc Chemical Science
- MSc Compt Finance
- MSc Computer Science
- MSc Environmental & Water Science
- MSc Mathematical Science
- MSc Mathematical Science
- MSc Mathematical Science
- MSc Medical Bioscience
- MSc Nanoscience
- MSc Pharmaceutical Science
- MSc Pharmacy Administration
- MSc Physical Science
- MSc Statistical Science
- Master's of Clinical Pharmacy
NB: Various faculties may offer part-time courses.
UWC fees
The semester and annual tuition fees at UWC vary depending on the course and level of academic study. All students receive their fee statements before the start of a new semester.
You can fill out the UWC scholarship application form for the 2026 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program on the school's students portal to apply for financial aid or specific scholarships through the Financial Aid office. Ensure you upload the required documentation (ID, transcripts, etc.)
Applications typically require applicants to be less than or equal to 26 years old, demonstrate financial need, and meet academic admission requirements for the 2026 study.
UWC contacts
For any issues with the UWC portal login and applications, contact the institution via:
- Location: University of the Western Cape, Robert Sobukwe Road, Bellville, 7535, South Africa
- Phone: +27 21 959 3900/01
- Email: admissions@uwc.ac.za
When can you apply to UWC in 2026?
The University of the Western Cape's undergraduate applications for the 2027 academic year shall open on 1 April 2026 and close on 30 September 2026. Meanwhile, UWC online postgraduate applications in 2026 are open, with most closing on 30 September 2026.
Prospective students, including current Grade 12 learners, are encouraged to apply early to allow time for document submission and to fix any mistakes.
Which applications are still open for 2026?
The University of the Western Cape has closed most undergraduate applications (which closed on 30 September 2025).
Does UWC consider late applications?
The University of Western Cape does not accept or consider late applications or walk-ins. Due to high demand, all applications must be submitted by the official closing date, which is typically 30 September for most programS. No late, manual, or walk-in applications will be allowed.
Does UWC offer online courses?
UWC offers online, blended, and distance learning courses, particularly through the Centre for Innovative Education and Communication Technologies (CIECT). Offerings include postgraduate diplomas, Master’s programs (e.g., in Law and Public Health), and short courses, such as those for Executive Leadership.
How do you apply to join UWC?
For UWC online application in 2026, log into the University of the Western Cape's student portal at student.uwc.ac.za and submit your application. Applicants must create a new account for their initial application, then use the provided login details for subsequent access to track their status.
If you have been wondering how to apply for a UWC course, check out the detailed guide above.
When can you apply to join UWC?
You can submit your applications for 2027 starting 1 April 2026. The deadline will be 30 September 2026. Prospective students are encouraged to submit their applications early enough if they meet the specified entry criteria.
How much is the registration fee for UWC in 2026?
The University of the Western Cape's registration fee structure for South African students is as follows:
- Standard Registration Fee: R1,810.
- Total Upfront Payment (including registration): Self-funded students must pay a total of R4,290 (which includes the R1,810 registration fee) before they can register.
- Residence Students: Students allocated to a residence must pay an upfront fee of R4,840.
- Bursary Holders: If a student provides proof of a bursary that covers full tuition, they are only required to pay the R1,810 registration fee.
- NSFAS Students: Students with NSFAS funding are not required to pay the upfront registration fee.
Which is better, UJ or UWC?
Both the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and the University of the Western Cape (UWC) are top-tier South African institutions, but UJ generally holds a higher, more consistent ranking (top 4-6 in SA) compared to UWC (top 8-10). UJ offers a fast-paced, urban experience in Johannesburg, while UWC in Cape Town is often recognized for its strong research influence and resilience.
Briefly.co.za published all the details about the UCT online application process. The University of Cape Town (UCT) is a public research university in Cape Town, South Africa. It is the oldest university in the country.
UCT is a world-renowned university that has consistently been ranked among the top universities in Africa and the world. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
Source: Briefly News
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