How do I apply to Stellenbosch University

Stellenbosch University’s academic year follows the calendar year.

Taught postgraduate programmes usually commence in February each year with a limited number of programmes commencing in July. Where a postgraduate programme consists of coursework it is important for candidates who have been admitted to arrive in time for the commencement of the programme. Classes usually commence in late January or early February (or late July). Late arrivals cannot be accommodated.

New registrations for masters (by research) and doctoral programmes must be finalised by the end of March or in some cases by the end of July each year.

► EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS

Acquaint yourself with the postgraduate programme offering at SU. Ensure that you meet the minimum admission requirements of your programme of interest.
 

► TAKE NOTE OF THE CLOSING DATES

Applications:

Applications for each new enrolment cycle open on 01 March each year. Application for admission to postgraduate degree programmes for both South African and International candidates are subject to faculty specific closing dates. 

To view the closing dates for a specific programme, click here.
 

Bursaries:

Bursary application closing dates are available here.
 

Financial assistance:

30 June: Applications close for National Research Foundation (NRF) funding.

31 August: Applications close for Stellenbosch University financial assistance.

No late applications will be considered.
 

► SELECT YOUR PROGRAMME

As a postgraduate candidate, you are only able to apply for one programme. Submitting your completed application form and meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission. 

You may change your programme choice, provided that the closing dates allow for it by sending an email with your request to the Client Services Centre via info@sun.ac.za. Use your SU student number as a reference.
 

 APPLY ONLINE

In order to apply online, you will need a valid mail address and cell/mobile phone number. Correspondence will be sent to the email address provided and messages to the cell/mobile phone.View our 8-step guide to ensure that your application is complete.

► PAY THE APPLICATION FEE

Application fees can be paid as part of the online application process (only South African candidates pay an application fee).

Cash payments may also be made in person at the cashiers at the Administration A building (Stellenbosch Campus).

More on payment options.
 

► MAKE SURE THAT YOU UPLOAD ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Your application will only be processed AFTER the application has been finalised AND all the correct supporting documents have been uploaded via the ‘Upload application documents‘ link BEFORE the closing date. 

It remains your responsibility to make sure that the University receives all your documents in time.
 

► MONITOR YOUR APPLICATION STATUS

The University will acknowledge receipt of your application via email.

Use your student number and SUN-password to monitor the status of your application.


Did You Know : Top 15 Free Online Learning Platforms

  1. Free Online Education Degrees : Coursera:

    Coursera partners with universities and organizations worldwide to offer a wide range of courses. While many courses are free, a fee is often required for certification.

  2. Free Online Education Degrees: edX:

    Founded by MIT and Harvard, edX offers high-quality courses from top universities and institutions around the world. Certificates are available for a fee.

  3. Free Online Education Degrees : Khan Academy:

    Khan Academy provides free educational content in various subjects, especially mathematics and science, using instructional videos and practice exercises.

  4. Free Online Education Degrees : Udacity:

    Udacity focuses on tech-related courses and nanodegree programs, offering free content as well as more in-depth paid programs.

  5. Free Online Education Degrees : MIT OpenCourseWare (OCW):

    MIT OCW provides a vast array of MIT's course content for free, covering a wide range of disciplines.

  6. Free Online Education Degrees : Harvard Extension School:

    Harvard Extension School offers a selection of free online courses. While some courses are free, others may require payment for a certificate.

  7. Free Online Education Degrees: Stanford Online:

    Stanford Online offers a variety of free courses in different disciplines, including computer science, engineering, and business.

  8. Best Free Online Courses : Carnegie Mellon Open Learning Initiative (OLI):

    OLI offers free online courses and resources designed to improve learning outcomes through research-based methodologies.

  9. Best Free Online Courses : FutureLearn:

    FutureLearn partners with universities and institutions to offer a diverse range of free online courses. Certificates are available for a fee.

  10. Best Free Online Courses: Alison:

    Alison offers a wide range of free online courses, including diploma and certificate programs, covering various subjects.

  11. Best Free Online Courses: Open Yale Courses:

    Yale University provides free access to a selection of introductory courses through Open Yale Courses.

  12. Best Free Online Courses : UC Berkeley Online:

    UC Berkeley offers free online courses on a variety of subjects, ranging from computer science to humanities.

  13. Best Free Online Courses : Google Digital Garage:

    Google Digital Garage provides free courses on digital skills, including online marketing, data analysis, and more.

  14. Best Free Online Courses : Codecademy:

    Codecademy offers free coding courses, interactive exercises, and coding projects to help individuals learn programming languages.

  15. Best Free Online Courses : LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com):

    LinkedIn Learning provides a variety of video courses on professional development, technology, and creative skills. It offers a free trial period.




Did you know : International Scholarships 2024

There are several international scholarships available for South Africans to study abroad. Here are a few examples:

  1. Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program: This program provides fully funded scholarships to study at selected universities in Africa, Europe, and North America. It is open to African students, including South Africans, who are committed to giving back to their communities.
  2. Commonwealth Scholarships: The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission offers scholarships for postgraduate study in the UK for citizens of Commonwealth countries, including South Africa. The scholarships cover tuition fees, travel costs, and a living allowance.
  3. Fulbright Foreign Student Program: The Fulbright program offers scholarships for South Africans to study at U.S. universities for a Master’s or PhD degree. The scholarship covers tuition, travel, living expenses, and health insurance.
  4. Erasmus+ Programme: The Erasmus+ programme offers scholarships for South Africans to study in Europe for a Master’s or PhD degree. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel, and living expenses.
  5. Australia Awards Scholarships: The Australian government offers scholarships for South Africans to study at Australian universities. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel costs, and a living allowance.

These are just a few examples of the many international scholarships available to South Africans. It is important to research the eligibility requirements and application deadlines for each scholarship program.