2nd Semester Applications 2026 | List of Open Universities
Looking for a mid-year start? Check the status of NMU, Wits, and Unisa second-semester intakes for 2026. See closing dates, available courses, and how to apply online today.
2nd Semester Applications 2026: Which SA Universities Are Still Open?
Missing the January intake doesn't mean your academic year is over. Several South African universities offer a second-semester (mid-year) intake starting in July 2026. This guide lists which universities are currently accepting applications, what courses are available, and how to apply before the closing dates.
Updated: February 27, 2026
What Is a Second-Semester Intake?
A second-semester intake (also called a mid-year intake or Semester 2 intake) allows students to begin studies in July instead of the traditional January start. Not all courses or universities offer this option — it is most common at:
- UNISA (University of South Africa) — as a distance-learning institution, UNISA accepts students for both Semester 1 (February) and Semester 2 (July)
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU) — selected programmes accept mid-year applications
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) — limited programmes available for mid-year entry
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) — some diploma programmes accept mid-year students
- Durban University of Technology (DUT) — selected courses offer mid-year registration
2026 Second-Semester Application Status by University
| University | Second Semester? | Application Closing Date | Available Programmes |
|---|---|---|---|
| UNISA | Yes | May 31, 2026 | Most distance-learning programmes |
| Nelson Mandela University (NMU) | Selected programmes | May 15, 2026 | Education, Law, selected Arts programmes |
| Wits | Limited | April 30, 2026 | Check Wits website for available programmes |
| TUT | Selected diplomas | May 31, 2026 | Engineering Technology, IT diplomas |
| DUT | Selected courses | May 31, 2026 | Management Sciences, Applied Sciences |
| CPUT | Limited | May 15, 2026 | Extended programmes only |
Note: Closing dates are approximate and subject to change. Always confirm directly with the university's admissions office before applying.
How to Apply for Second-Semester Entry
Step 1: Confirm Your Programme Is Available
Not all courses offer mid-year entry. Contact the department or check the university website to confirm that your chosen programme accepts second-semester students for 2026.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
You will need the same documents as a first-semester application:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copy of your matric certificate (NSC results)
- Proof of residence
- Any additional programme-specific requirements (portfolio, medical records, etc.)
Step 3: Apply Online or In Person
Most universities now accept online applications. Visit the official university website and look for "Second Semester Applications" or "Mid-Year Applications." Pay the application fee (typically R100–R200).
Step 4: Apply for NSFAS (if applicable)
If you need financial aid, apply for NSFAS at www.nsfas.org.za. NSFAS applications for Semester 2 typically open in February and close in April. Do not delay — NSFAS is first-come, first-served.
Step 5: Check Your Application Status
After submitting, monitor your application status via the university's student portal. Respond promptly to any requests for additional documents or information.
UNISA Second-Semester Applications 2026
UNISA is the most accessible option for second-semester entry. As South Africa's distance-learning university, UNISA accepts students twice a year. Key details for 2026:
- Semester 2 Registration Opens: April 1, 2026
- Semester 2 Application Deadline: May 31, 2026
- Classes Begin: July 2026
- Application Fee: None for UNISA (no application fee)
- How to Apply: Via www.unisa.ac.za
UNISA offers BCom, BEd, LLB, BSc, and many other qualifications for mid-year entry. This is ideal for students who missed the January intake or who are currently working and want to start studying later in the year.
NMU Second-Semester Applications 2026
Nelson Mandela University (NMU) in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) offers mid-year entry for selected programmes:
- Application Deadline: May 15, 2026
- Available Faculties: Education, Law, and selected programmes in Arts & Humanities
- How to Apply: Via www.mandela.ac.za
- Minimum APS: Same as standard first-semester entry
What If No Second-Semester Option Exists for Your Programme?
If your preferred programme doesn't offer second-semester entry, consider these alternatives:
- Short courses or bridging programmes: Use the rest of 2026 to improve your marks or complete a bridging course, then apply for the 2027 first-semester intake
- TVET Colleges: Technical and Vocational Education and Training colleges often accept students throughout the year for N1–N6 programmes
- Apply for 2027 now: Most universities open 2027 applications from April 1, 2026. Applying early gives you the best chance of securing a place
- Online certifications: Use platforms like Coursera, edX, or local providers to build skills while waiting for the next intake
2027 Application Dates: Start Planning Now
If you've missed the 2026 intakes entirely, start planning for 2027 today. Applications typically open on April 1 each year. Key 2027 closing dates:
| University | 2027 Applications Open | 2027 Closing Date |
|---|---|---|
| University of Cape Town (UCT) | April 1, 2026 | August 31, 2026 |
| University of Pretoria (UP) | April 1, 2026 | June 30, 2026 |
| Stellenbosch University | April 1, 2026 | June 30, 2026 |
| Wits | April 1, 2026 | September 30, 2026 |
| UKZN | April 1, 2026 | September 30, 2026 |
| UNISA | Open year-round | May 31 (Sem 2) / Oct 31 (Sem 1 2027) |
Frequently Asked Questions About Second-Semester Applications
Frequently Asked Questions
Which South African universities accept second-semester applications in 2026?
UNISA is the most accessible option, accepting applications until May 31 for a July 2026 start. Nelson Mandela University (NMU), Wits, TUT, and DUT also offer second-semester entry for selected programmes. Always confirm directly with the university, as availability varies by course.
When is the closing date for UNISA second-semester applications 2026?
UNISA's second-semester 2026 application deadline is approximately May 31, 2026. Registration for Semester 2 typically opens in April. Visit www.unisa.ac.za to apply online — there is no application fee at UNISA.
Can I apply for NSFAS for a second-semester intake?
Yes, NSFAS funding can apply to second-semester registrations at accredited public universities and TVET colleges. However, NSFAS application deadlines are typically earlier (around April) — apply as soon as possible at www.nsfas.org.za to avoid missing out.
What should I do if my programme doesn't offer second-semester entry?
If your preferred programme doesn't have a mid-year intake, use 2026 productively: enrol in a bridging course or short course, and apply early for the 2027 first-semester intake (applications open April 1, 2026). TVET colleges are also a great alternative with year-round admissions.
When do 2027 university applications open in South Africa?
Most South African universities open 2027 applications on April 1, 2026. UCT, Stellenbosch, and UP have earlier closing dates (June–August 2026), so apply as soon as possible. UNISA accepts applications year-round.