Documents to gather
- Certified copy of your ID (or passport and study permit for international applicants)
- Certified copy of your latest school results (Grade 11 final or Grade 12 June results)
- Certified copy of your parent's/guardian's ID for funding applications
- Proof of residence or a municipal bill
- Proof of application fee payment (where the institution charges one)
- A working email address and cellphone number you check daily
- NBT booking reference where the programme requires it
- Portfolio, audition piece or motivation letter for selection programmes
Certification must usually be within the last three months — a police station or post office will do it free.
The order to do it in
- 1Work out your APS and shortlist programmes you realistically qualify for.
- 2Check each institution's closing date — they are not the same, and health sciences usually close first.
- 3Apply to at least three institutions, including one with a lower APS requirement as a backup.
- 4Book and write the NBT early if any of your choices require it.
- 5Apply for funding (NSFAS or a bursary) in parallel with your study application.
- 6Apply for residence separately — residence deadlines are often earlier than academic ones.
- 7Save every reference number and screenshot each submission confirmation.
- 8Track your status weekly and respond immediately to requests for outstanding documents.