The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University), one of South Africa’s premier institutions, is now accepting applications for the 2025 academic year. With a wide array of programs across various disciplines, Wits University offers students a pathway to academic excellence and prepares them to make a meaningful impact on society. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help prospective students navigate the application process, understand the admission requirements, and explore funding options.
Application Process
For 2025, Wits University has streamlined its application process, making it user-friendly and accessible entirely online. Prospective students can access the Wits online application portal, available 24/7, using either a desktop or mobile device.
Application Window
The application period typically opens in early March and runs until the end of September. However, specific faculties, like Health Sciences and Engineering, often have earlier closing dates due to high demand.
Preparation
Applicants should prepare by gathering the necessary documents, including:
- Latest academic records
- Identification (ID or passport)
- Any additional documents specific to their intended program
- Application Fees:
- South African Students: Approximately R100
- International Applicants: Around R700
- Financial Aid Applicants: Fee waivers may be available depending on the funding application type.
This comprehensive process is designed to support students in preparing their materials well in advance, ensuring a smooth and efficient application experience.
Wits University 2025 Application Dates
The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University) has announced its application dates for the 2025 academic year, offering a clear timeline for prospective students:
- Application Opening : March 2025Advertisement
- Application Deadlines:
- 30 June 2025: Applications close for Faculty of Health Sciences programs, Bachelor of Architectural Studies, Bachelor of Audiology, Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology, and BA Film & TV.
- 30 September 2025: Closing date for all other undergraduate programs and residence applications.
These dates are structured to give applicants ample time to submit both their academic and accommodation applications. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to apply early, especially for competitive programs, as these may reach capacity before the closing dates.
For more details or to start the application, visit the official Wits University Applications page
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements at Wits University vary significantly across faculties, tailored to ensure students are academically prepared for their chosen field. Below is an outline of the general and specific requirements for prospective students:
General Requirements for Undergraduate Programmes
- National Senior Certificate (NSC): Candidates must hold an NSC with an endorsement for degree study or an equivalent qualification.
- Admission Points Score (APS): Most undergraduate programs require a minimum APS, calculated from final secondary school results. Specific APS requirements may vary by faculty.
Additional Requirements for Select Programmes
Certain competitive programs have further admission requirements to assess the suitability of prospective students:
- National Benchmark Test (NBT): For programs such as Medicine, Law, and Engineering, applicants may be required to complete the NBT as part of the selection process.
- Interviews or Portfolio Submissions: Depending on the program, additional assessments may include an interview or a portfolio submission, particularly in fields such as the creative arts and health sciences.
Requirements for International Students
International students should ensure their qualifications meet the equivalency of the South African NSC:
- SAQA Evaluation: Non-South African qualifications may require evaluation by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) for equivalency verification.
- English Proficiency: For applicants from non-English-speaking backgrounds, Wits typically requires proof of English language proficiency, which can be demonstrated through standardized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.
These requirements aim to provide a holistic view of each applicant, factoring in both academic performance and additional competencies suited to the demands of each program. For precise APS requirements or program-specific details, prospective students should consult the Wits University Admissions page.
Programmes Offered
Wits University offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs through its five main faculties:
Commerce, Law, and Management
Programs in this faculty are aimed at equipping students with the skills necessary for careers in business, finance, management, and law. Options include the Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) with various majors such as Accounting, Human Resources, and Law.
Engineering and the Built Environment
Known for its high standards in technical education, this faculty offers degrees in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Biomedical Engineering, among others. It also includes programs in urban planning, property studies, and architecture.
Health Sciences
As one of Africa’s leading centers for medical education and research, Wits offers degrees in Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Allied Health Sciences, including Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy. The Bachelor of Health Sciences also provides a pathway into clinical fields.
Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences
This diverse faculty includes programs in Education, Digital Arts, Theatre and Performance, and Social Work. It also houses the Wits School of Arts, offering specialized programmes in film, fine arts, and music.
Science
Wits’ Faculty of Science is renowned for research and offers degrees in fields such as Actuarial Science, Computer Science, Biochemistry, and Geology. Students are trained in both theoretical and applied sciences, with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.
Each program is designed to provide students with a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, fostering a deep understanding of their chosen field and preparing them for both professional and academic advancement.
Funding and Financial Aid
Wits University is committed to making education accessible and offers various funding options, including government financial aid, university bursaries, and merit scholarships. South African students from lower-income households may apply for funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), which covers tuition, accommodation, and living expenses for eligible students.
The university also provides need-based bursaries and academic merit scholarships for outstanding students. These are awarded based on academic performance, with some scholarships available specifically for high-achieving first-year students. Additionally, Wits partners with corporations and industry leaders who offer bursaries and funding for students in fields such as Engineering, Law, and Health Sciences.
International students are encouraged to explore scholarship options both within Wits and in their home countries, as some international funding organizations offer financial support to students studying abroad in South Africa.
Tuition Fees and Additional Costs
Tuition fees at Wits vary widely depending on the faculty and specific program. For example:
- Undergraduate Programmes: Fees range between R60,000 and R85,000 per year for most undergraduate programs, with some high-demand degrees like Medicine and Engineering on the higher end.
- Postgraduate Programmes: Postgraduate fees can range from R50,000 to over R120,000, depending on whether the program includes research or coursework components.
- International Students: In addition to standard tuition, international students pay an added levy, which generally falls between R6,000 and R10,000 per year.
Other fees to consider include a registration fee, typically around R9,340, a student services levy, and any program-specific fees (such as lab or studio fees). Accommodation is available in Wits University residences, with on-campus options costing between R45,000 and R75,000 annually, and meal plans adding an estimated R20,000 to R30,000 per year.
For students unable to pay tuition upfront, Wits offers flexible payment plans, allowing fees to be settled in installments. These arrangements are made through the Wits Finance Office, which guides structuring payments based on individual circumstances.
Wits University’s 2025 admission cycle promises to welcome a new cohort of students into an institution known for its commitment to academic excellence, research, and social impact. With a range of programs, strong support for students, and flexible funding options, Wits University continues to be an ideal destination for local and international students pursuing higher education in South Africa. For detailed information or to begin the application process, prospective students should visit the Wits University website.
