How to Apply to Stellenbosch University (SU) 2026 | Complete Guide

Quick Answer: To apply to Stellenbosch University (SU), visit https://www.sun.ac.za/english/maties/Pages/Apply.aspx, pay the R100 application fee, and submit your documents before June 30. Minimum APS is 30 for most programmes.

How to Apply to Stellenbosch University (SU)

Thinking about studying at Stellenbosch University (SU)? Based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, SU / Maties is a Traditional University established in 1918. 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: SU / Maties Fast Facts

Detail	Information
Full Name	Stellenbosch University (SU)
Type	Traditional University
Location	Stellenbosch, Western Cape
Year Founded	1918
Application Portal	https://www.sun.ac.za/english/maties/Pages/Apply.aspx
Application Fee	R100
Applications Open	March
Applications Close	June 30
Minimum APS	30 (varies by programme)
Contact Phone	021 808 9111
Contact Email	info@sun.ac.za

Why Choose SU / Maties?

Top 5 African universities; QS World Top 600.

• Known as "Maties", the university is set in the historic Cape Winelands
• Offers the only accredited Viticulture & Oenology programme in South Africa
• Has one of the lowest student dropout rates in South Africa at just 8%
• Hosts the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS)

Faculties and Programmes at SU / Maties

SU / Maties offers qualifications across 9 faculties:

• AgriSciences
• Arts & Social Sciences
• Economic & Management Sciences
• Education
• Engineering
• Law
• Medicine & Health Sciences
• Science
• Theology

Popular programmes include: BSc Viticulture & Oenology, BCom, LLB, BEng, BSc Actuarial Science.

APS Requirements for SU / Maties

The minimum Admission Point Score (APS) required at SU / Maties is 30 points. However, individual programmes may require significantly higher scores:

APS range: 30–42 depending on faculty

SU uses its own APS system and requires a minimum score depending on the faculty. Medicine and Health Sciences require 42+ APS. Many programmes are Afrikaans-medium; English-medium options are available.

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 SU / Maties

Step 1: Check Programme Requirements

Before applying, confirm the specific APS requirements and subject prerequisites for your chosen programme at https://www.sun.ac.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 SU / Maties online application portal at https://www.sun.ac.za/english/maties/Pages/Apply.aspx. Create an account, complete the application form, upload your documents, and pay the application fee of R100.

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline

Applications for 2027 admission typically open in March and close on June 30. 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 SU / Maties, 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 SU / Maties

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: March
• Application Deadline: June 30
• 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 SU / Maties

Studying at SU / Maties can be financed through several bursaries and financial aid options:

• NSFAS
• SU Financial Aid
• Investec Scholarship
• Maties Sports Bursary

NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): If your combined household income is below R350,000 per year, you may qualify for NSFAS funding. Apply at www.nsfas.org.za from October each year for the following academic year.

Preparing for SU / Maties 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 SU / Maties 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 SU / Maties, 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 SU / Maties With Other Universities

Not sure if SU / Maties is the right fit? Here are some things to consider:

Factor	SU / Maties	Typical Alternative
Type	Traditional University	Traditional University / UoT
Location	Stellenbosch	Varies
Minimum APS	30	20–37 (varies widely)
Application Fee	R100	R100–R400
NSFAS Eligible	Yes	Yes (public) / No (private)

Frequently Asked Questions About Applying to SU / Maties

Still have questions? Our FAQ section below answers the most common questions about applying to SU / Maties.

Need extra help with your Grade 12 subjects to meet SU / Maties'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.