How to Apply to The IIE's Varsity College 2026 | Complete Guide

Quick Answer: To apply to The IIE's Varsity College, visit https://www.varsitycollege.co.za/apply, pay the No application fee application fee, and submit your documents before Rolling admissions (November recommended for January intake). Minimum APS is 24 for most programmes.

How to Apply to The IIE's Varsity College

Thinking about studying at The IIE's Varsity College? Based in Multiple campuses nationwide, Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Varsity College is a Private Higher Education Institution established in 1999. This guide covers everything you need to know to apply successfully — from APS requirements to application deadlines, bursaries, and step-by-step instructions.

At a Glance: Varsity College Fast Facts

Detail	Information
Full Name	The IIE's Varsity College
Type	Private Higher Education Institution
Location	Campuses in: Johannesburg North, Sandton, Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban North, Port Elizabeth, Pietermaritzburg, Cape Town Online
Year Founded	1999
Application Portal	https://www.varsitycollege.co.za/apply
Application Fee	No application fee
Applications Open	Year-round
Applications Close	Rolling admissions (November recommended for January intake)
Minimum APS	24 (varies by programme)
Contact Phone	0860 00 2777
Contact Email	info@varsitycollege.co.za

Why Choose Varsity College?

SA's largest private higher education provider (IIE group).

• Part of the Independent Institute of Education (IIE), SA's largest private HEI group
• IIE qualifications are nationally recognised and accredited by the CHE (Council on Higher Education)
• Campuses in all major South African cities, plus a full online campus
• Varsity College has a 90%+ graduate employment rate within 6 months

Faculties and Programmes at Varsity College

Varsity College offers qualifications across 6 faculties:

• Commerce
• Creative Arts
• Digital & Design
• Education
• Humanities
• Law

Popular programmes include: BCom Business Management, BCom Marketing Management, LLB, BA Communication, Higher Certificate in Business Management.

APS Requirements for Varsity College

The minimum Admission Point Score (APS) required at Varsity College is 24 points. However, individual programmes may require significantly higher scores:

APS range: 24–30 depending on programme

Varsity College has more flexible entry requirements than public universities. Minimum APS of 24 for degree programmes. A Higher Certificate in Business is offered for students with 18+ APS. English proficiency is important.

How to Calculate Your APS

Your APS is calculated from your Grade 12 (NSC) subject results. Each subject receives a score from 1 to 7 based on your percentage:

Percentage (%)	Rating Code	APS Points
80–100%	7 (Outstanding)	7
70–79%	6 (Meritorious)	6
60–69%	5 (Substantial)	5
50–59%	4 (Adequate)	4
40–49%	3 (Moderate)	3
30–39%	2 (Elementary)	2
0–29%	1 (Not Achieved)	1

Your APS is the sum of your six best subjects (excluding Life Orientation, which is counted at half-value at most universities, or excluded entirely).

Use our free APS Calculator to calculate your score instantly.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply to Varsity College

Step 1: Check Programme Requirements

Before applying, confirm the specific APS requirements and subject prerequisites for your chosen programme at https://www.varsitycollege.co.za. Some programmes require specific subjects (e.g., Mathematics for Engineering, Life Sciences for Medicine).

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

You will typically need:

• Certified copy of your ID (South African ID or passport for international students)
• Certified copy of your Grade 11 final results (if applying before matric)
• Certified copy of your NSC / Grade 12 results (final matric results when available)
• Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill)
• Completed application form (online or paper)

Step 3: Apply Online

Visit the Varsity College online application portal at https://www.varsitycollege.co.za/apply. Create an account, complete the application form, upload your documents, and pay the application fee of No application fee.

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline

Applications for 2027 admission typically open in Year-round and close on Rolling admissions (November recommended for January intake). Apply as early as possible — popular programmes fill up quickly, especially Medicine, Law, and Engineering.

Step 5: Accept Your Offer

Once you receive a conditional or unconditional offer from Varsity College, accept it within the specified timeframe (usually 2–4 weeks). You may need to pay a registration deposit to secure your place.

Step 6: Register for Your Programme

After accepting your offer, complete the formal registration process in January (or mid-year for Semester 2 programmes). Bring original and certified copies of all documents.

Application Deadlines for Varsity College

Missing the application deadline is one of the most common reasons students don't get into their chosen institution. Here are the key dates:

• Applications Open: Year-round
• Application Deadline: Rolling admissions (November recommended for January intake)
• Results Notification: Typically November–December for the following year
• Registration: January (Semester 1) or mid-year

Pro tip: Don't wait until the last day. Apply when applications open — some programmes are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Bursaries and Financial Aid at Varsity College

Studying at Varsity College can be financed through several bursaries and financial aid options:

• No NSFAS (private institution)
• IIE Bursary Scheme
• Varsity College Academic Excellence Scholarship
• ISFAP (for qualifying students)
• Bank-sponsored student loans (Nedbank, FNB, Absa)

Note: As a private institution, Varsity College does not qualify for NSFAS funding. However, many private institutions offer their own bursaries, and bank student loans (Nedbank, FNB, Absa, Standard Bank) are widely available.

Preparing for Varsity College While Still in School

The best time to prepare for university is while you're still in Grade 10, 11, or 12. Here's what you can do:

• Focus on your key subjects: Make sure you're strong in the subjects required for your chosen programme
• Use AI tutoring: StudyBuddy's AI tutor helps you master difficult CAPS topics before matric
• Research your options early: Visit open days at Varsity College to understand campus life
• Apply for bursaries early: Some bursaries (like Allan Gray, Anglo American) are available while you're still in Grade 11
• Track your APS: Use our APS calculator to know where you stand

What Happens After You Apply?

After submitting your application to Varsity College, the process typically follows these stages:

1. Application Confirmation: You'll receive an email or SMS confirming receipt of your application
2. Conditional Offer: If your Grade 11 results meet the requirements, you may receive a conditional offer
3. Final Results Submission: Submit your final NSC results in January
4. Unconditional Offer: If your matric results meet or exceed the requirements, your offer becomes unconditional
5. Registration: Register for your programme and pay your fees or confirm NSFAS/bursary funding

Comparing Varsity College With Other Universities

Not sure if Varsity College is the right fit? Here are some things to consider:

Factor	Varsity College	Typical Alternative
Type	Private Higher Education Institution	Traditional University / UoT
Location	Multiple campuses nationwide	Varies
Minimum APS	24	20–37 (varies widely)
Application Fee	No application fee	R100–R400
NSFAS Eligible	No	Yes (public) / No (private)

Frequently Asked Questions About Applying to Varsity College

Still have questions? Our FAQ section below answers the most common questions about applying to Varsity College.

Need extra help with your Grade 12 subjects to meet Varsity College's entry requirements? StudyBuddy's AI tutor is FREE to start — get personalised help in Mathematics, Sciences, English, and all CAPS subjects. Most students improve their marks by 20–30% within a few weeks.