The cost of applying to university can be a significant barrier for many South African students. With application fees ranging from R100 to over R500, the expenses add up quickly, especially when applying to multiple institutions. Fortunately, several South African universities have eliminated application fees for 2026, making higher education more accessible. This guide provides a comprehensive list of those institutions and other essential information to help you apply.
Universities with Free Applicaions for 2026
According to the Department of Higher Education and Training's Career Help portal and other official sources, the following universities do not charge an application fee for the 2026 academic year
University Application Fee Status
- University of Johannesburg (UJ) Free for online applications
- North-West University (NWU) Free for South African students (International students R600)
- University of the Free State (UFS) Free for all undergraduate applications
- University of the Western Cape (UWC) Free for online applications
- Central University of Technology (CUT) Free for online applications
- Nelson Mandela University Free for online applications
- University of Venda (Univen) Free for online applications for 2026
- Walter Sisulu University Free for online applications
- University of Pretoria (UP)- Free if your household income is R150,000 or less; otherwise, the fee is R300.
- Stellenbosch University (SU)- Undergraduate applicants from quintile 1-4 schools may be exempted from application fees
Other Important Financial Considerations
While these institutions waive the initial application fee, keep in mind that other costs may apply
International Students- Several universities, like NWU and Nelson Mandela University, charge application fees for international applicants (often around R500–R600).
Registration Fees- A free application does not mean free registration. Once accepted, you will need to pay a registration fee to secure your spot.
Matriculation Exemption Fee- If you hold a foreign qualification, you may need to pay a non-refundable exemption fee (R1,070 for 2026) to the Matriculation Board
Financial Aid: What to Do After Applying for Free
After submitting your free applications, your next step should be to secure funding. Here are the main options for 2026
NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme)- Applications for the 2026 academic year are currently open and close on 15 November 2025. If you come from a household with a combined annual income of R350,000 or less, you should apply immediately.
University Bursaries and Scholarships- Many universities offer their own merit-based or need-based financial aid. Check the financial aid section of each university's website for specific opportunities.
External Bursaries- Numerous private companies and foundations offer bursaries. Websites like CareerHelp and CareerPortal regularly update lists of available bursaries.
CAS (Central Application Service)- This new DHET pilot project helps aspiring learners find placement at public universities and TVET colleges for undergraduate studies. If you haven't secured a spot, CAS can be a valuable resource.
The Push for Fee-Free Applications
The movement toward eliminating application fees is gaining momentum. The South African Union of Students (SAUS) has actively called on universities to scrap these fees altogether, arguing that they create an unfair barrier for students from low-income households. As the 2027 application cycle approaches, more universities may follow suit.
Start your journey by applying to these no-fee universities today. Don't let application costs stand between you and your future. For more information on university applications, visit the Career Help portal.