Still haven’t applied for 2027? We have outlined the universities & TVET colleges that are closing in October 2026 so you can make a decision of the university / TVET of your choice.
If you haven’t applied to study for 2027, you do not have to panic. There is still time, but make sure that at least halfway through the month you have applied to at least 3 universities or TVET colleges. While many South African universities and TVET colleges had September deadlines, some institutions and programmes remain open into October and just beyond. Youth Opportunities SA guide tracks the remaining 2027 application opportunities and the NSFAS funding deadline so you can check your options before applications close.
Public universities closing in October 2026
The below table shows the public universities with confirmed October undergraduate application deadlines, plus one university that remains open until November.
| University | Province | Closing date | What is closing? | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of South Africa (UNISA) | National | 9 Oct 2026 | Undergraduate applications | 🔴 Urgent – Apply Here |
| University of Johannesburg (UJ) | Gauteng | 31 Oct 2026, 12:00 | Undergraduate applications | 🟢 Open – Apply Here |
| University of Fort Hare (UFH) | Eastern Cape | 31 Oct 2026 | Undergraduate applications | 🟢 Open – Apply Here |
| Walter Sisulu University (WSU) | Eastern Cape | 31 Oct 2026 | General/RSA applications | 🟢 Open – Apply Here |
| Sol Plaatje University (SPU) | Northern Cape | 31 Oct 2026 | Undergraduate & postgraduate | 🟢 Open – Apply Here |
| University of Mpumalanga (UMP) | Mpumalanga | 30 Nov 2026 | Undergraduate applications | 🟢 Open – Apply Here |
TVET colleges closing in October 2026
The TVET application deadlines vary in most instances and individual verification is necessary. South Africa’s 50 public TVET colleges set their own application periods, and dates can differ according to NC(V), occupational programmes, NATED/Report 191 and individual campuses.
We have compiled the following October 2026 deadlines reported for 2027 applications and suggested those that still have to be verified per college:
| TVET College | Province | Closing date | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thekwini TVET College | KwaZulu-Natal | 15 Oct 2026 | 🟢 Open – Apply Here |
| Taletso TVET College | North West | 16 Oct 2026 | 🟡 Verify – Apply Here |
| Sekhukhune TVET College | Limpopo | 16 Oct 2026 | 🟡 Verify – Apply Here |
| Capricorn TVET College | Limpopo | 16 Oct 2026 | 🟡 Verify – Apply Here |
| Ekurhuleni East TVET College | Gauteng | 20 Oct 2026 | 🟡 Verify – Apply Here |
| False Bay TVET College | Western Cape | 31 Oct 2026 | 🟢 Open – Apply Here |
| Orbit TVET College | North West | 31 Oct 2026 | 🟢 Open – Apply Here |
| South West Gauteng TVET College | Gauteng | 31 Oct 2026 | 🟡 Verify – Apply Here |
About NSFAS 2027 Applications
Students planning to study at a public university or TVET college in 2027 can apply for financial assistance through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Applications for the 2027 academic year opened on 18 September 2026 and are closing on 31 October 2026.
NSFAS applications are free, and students can apply online through the official NSFAS platform. You are required as an applicant to create or access myNSFAS account, complete your personal and household information, provide the required consent and upload supporting documents where requested.
Importantly, applying for NSFAS funding is separate from applying for admission to a university or TVET college. Students should apply for admission to their chosen institution and submit their NSFAS application separately if they require financial assistance.
NSFAS is urging prospective students not to wait until the final days to apply. The scheme reported receiving 51,474 applications during the first four days of the 2027 application cycle and has stated that there will be no extension to the application period, proactiveness is encouraged and necessary in this regard.
NSFAS 2027 Key Points:
- Applications opened: 18 September 2026
- Applications close: 31 October 2026
- Application fee: Free
- Application platform: myNSFAS
If you intend to study in 2027 and need financial assistance, don’t leave your application until the last minute. Prepare your documents, complete your application carefully, save your application reference number and
FAQ
Which universities are still open for 2027 applications?
Several South African universities still have 2027 applications open, but deadlines vary by institution and programme.
Which universities close in October 2026?
Universities including UNISA, UJ, UFH, WSU and SPU have application deadlines falling in October 2026, subject to programme – specific requirements.
Which TVET colleges are still accepting applications?
TVET colleges have programme-specific or extended application windows, it is advisable for applicants to check each college’s official portal for the latest deadline.
When do 2027 university applications close?
There is no single closing date; each university sets its own deadline, with some applications closing in October and others later.
When does NSFAS 2027 close?
NSFAS 2027 applications close on 31 October 2026.
Can I apply to university and NSFAS at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for university admission and NSFAS funding during the same application cycle.
Does NSFAS apply for university admission?
No, NSFAS funding and university admission are separate applications.
What happens if I miss the university application deadline?
You may need to apply to another institution still accepting applications or check whether the university has officially opened late applications.
Can I apply to more than one university?
Yes, you can generally apply to multiple universities, provided you meet each institution’s requirements and follow its application process.
Can I apply to a university and TVET college?
Yes, you can apply to both while considering your options for 2027.
Do TVET colleges require an APS score?
Requirements vary by college and programme, and some TVET programmes may use different admission criteria rather than a university-style APS score.
What documents do I need to apply?
Typically, you may need your ID, latest school results or matric certificate, and other supporting documents specified by the institution.
Your future starts with the opportunity you choose today.
Don’t wait until the closing date, check your options and apply early.
Whether it’s university, TVET or NSFAS, take the next step towards your goals.
Believe in your potential, prepare what is necessary and submit your application!
Youth Opportunities SA – Your Partner In Progress
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