University of Pretoria
Admissions Guide for International Students
Admissions Guide for International Students
Africa's most prolific research university, the University of Pretoria (UP) combines rigorous academics with one of the continent's richest campus cultures. Founded in 1908 in South Africa's administrative capital, UP has grown to over 53,000 students across seven campuses — and since 1997 has produced more research outputs annually than any other South African institution. For international students seeking a globally ranked, English-medium African university, UP offers exceptional value, unique programmes, and a gateway into the Sub-Saharan professional network.
University of Pretoria — campus in pictures
Real, freely-licensed photographs of the campus (via Wikimedia Commons).
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Administrative building University of Pretoria
Mike-Prins · CC BY-SA 3.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
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Cnrza UP · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
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The main entrance of University of Pretoria Groenkloof campus on Leyds Street
Slippery slope302 · CC BY 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
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Unisa picture taken while riding Gautrain on 23 March 2019
EraMight · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
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Omesh took this picture at the University of Pretoria.
Omesh Jagarnath · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
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University of Pretoria, Groenkloof Campus, photo taken from Klapperkop
NJR ZA · CC BY-SA 3.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
Choosing UP means joining the most research-active university on the continent, in a cosmopolitan city at the heart of southern Africa's economic engine. Here is what distinguishes UP from every other African university.
Since 1997, UP has generated more research outputs annually than any other South African institution. Over 53 researchers are in the top 1% globally by citation impact, placing UP firmly in the international scientific conversation.
The Only Veterinary School in South Africa
UP's Faculty of Veterinary Science at Onderstepoort — established in 1920 — is the only vet school in the country and one of the oldest in Africa. For wildlife medicine, equine science, and conservation veterinary work, there is no equivalent on the continent.
The Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) launched the first MBA programme outside North America in 1949. Today it consistently ranks among Africa's top three business schools and maintains a campus in London for executive programmes.
Ranked #340 globally by QS and #4 nationally, UP delivers world-class education at a fraction of the cost of comparable US, UK, or Australian universities. Annual tuition for international students is among the most affordable at this ranking tier anywhere in the world.
Pretoria hosts every foreign embassy and major government ministry, the Union Buildings, and headquarters of companies like Old Mutual and Standard Bank. The city gives UP students unmatched access to diplomacy, policy, and corporate Africa — from internship to career.
UP officially adopted English as its sole language of instruction in 2019. All undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes are delivered in English, making the transition straightforward for international students from any country.
UP admits approximately 50% of applicants overall, but selectivity varies dramatically by programme. High-demand faculties — Veterinary Science, Medicine (Health Sciences), Law, and Engineering — are substantially more competitive than the overall rate suggests. International applicants are assessed on the strength of their home-country qualifications and must meet faculty-specific minimum requirements. The IB Diploma is well recognised and a score of 29 or above meets the minimum threshold for most programmes; competitive faculties typically expect scores in the mid-30s.
General entry; competitive programmes expect more
UP uses a direct online application system — there is no centralised portal like UCAS or Common App. International students apply through UP's own application website. The application is primarily qualification-based; there are no personal essays required as a standard component, though some programmes (Fine Arts, Architecture, some Health Sciences streams) may require a portfolio or a short motivation letter. Check the specific faculty page for additional requirements.
Complete the UP online application at www.up.ac.za. You will select your intended faculty and degree programme. A non-refundable application fee of USD 20 (or ZAR equivalent) is required.
Provide certified copies of your most recent school or university results. IB Diploma predicted and final grades are accepted; A-Level results, national high school certificates, and international equivalents are all assessed.
International applicants whose first language is not English and whose previous schooling was not in English must submit IELTS Academic (minimum 6.5 overall) or TOEFL iBT (minimum 80). Native English speakers and those schooled in English are normally exempt.
A clear copy of the biographical page of your passport or national ID. Study permit documentation will be required after offer of admission.
Foreign school-leaving qualifications may need to be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) or by UP's Admissions Office. UP's international admissions team guides applicants through this step.
Portfolio or Motivation Letter (selected programmes)
Programmes in Architecture, Fine Arts, Music, and some Health Sciences may require a portfolio of work or a brief statement of motivation. Confirm requirements with the specific faculty before applying.
https://www.up.ac.za/prospective-students/international-student-services
What UP Looks For in International Students
The University of Pretoria's admissions process is fundamentally academic — the primary criterion is whether your qualifications meet or exceed the minimum Admission Point Score (APS) for your chosen programme. Unlike US or UK institutions, UP does not holistically weigh extracurricular activities or personal essays in the standard undergraduate review. Academic merit is the decisive factor.
That said, competitive programmes — Veterinary Science, Medicine, LLB, and BEng — receive many more qualified applicants than places available. For these, UP may look at the full subject profile, performance in relevant science and maths subjects, and (for Medicine) additional selection processes. Here is the profile that gives international students the strongest standing:
For science and engineering programmes, high marks in Mathematics and Physical Sciences are essential. For Law and Commerce, strong performance in English, Mathematics, and Economics is valued. Focus your IB or A-Level subject choices strategically.
Every programme has a minimum APS (Admission Point Score). For international qualifications, UP converts your grades to an equivalent APS. A higher APS than the minimum strengthens your application for over-subscribed programmes.
Since all instruction is in English, demonstrated proficiency — through previous English-medium schooling or IELTS/TOEFL — is critical. IELTS 6.5 is the minimum; aiming for 7.0+ distinguishes your application.
Some faculties have prerequisite subjects (e.g., Mathematics and Life Sciences for Health Sciences, or Mathematics and Physics for Engineering). Ensure your curriculum covers these before applying.
UP opens applications for the following academic year (which begins in February) from around April–May each year. International students are strongly advised to apply by September to allow time for qualification evaluation, offer processing, and study permit applications. Exact dates vary by year — verify current deadlines on the official UP admissions website.
Online portal opens for following year intake
Allows time for SAQA evaluation and study permit
Some programmes may close earlier — verify per faculty
Provisional offers based on predicted grades
Two semesters: Feb–June and July–November
Deadlines are indicative. Always confirm on www.up.ac.za/prospective-students, as they are updated each cycle.
https://www.up.ac.za/prospective-students
Campus life at the University of Pretoria is vibrant, deeply traditional, and unexpectedly rich. The main Hatfield campus — spread across 24 hectares of tree-lined grounds with over 60 historically significant buildings — sits in one of Pretoria's most leafy and liveable suburbs, minutes from the city centre and an hour's drive from Johannesburg.
UP's residential community is one of the most storied in South Africa: 24 undergraduate and postgraduate residences house students in a culture of 'res house' identity, inter-res competitions (Insync, Serenade, Serrie), and traditions like the Jacaranda exams — where purple blossoms carpeting the campus are said to guarantee exam success. Rag, which UP pioneered in South Africa in 1925, remains one of the country's largest student charity events.
Pretoria earns its nickname each October when 70,000+ jacaranda trees bloom purple. The city is cosmopolitan, safe by African standards in UP's leafy suburbs, with excellent restaurants, malls, and cultural sites. Johannesburg — Africa's financial hub — is just 55 km away.
UP operates 30 sport clubs, 10 sport academies, and the Tuks High Performance Centre — a 1,500m altitude facility used by national teams. The university has produced over 250 Springbok rugby players and Olympians including Caster Semenya and Tatjana Schoenmaker.
From debate societies and cultural associations to academic clubs and community service groups, UP has organisations covering virtually every interest. Student governance is run through a Parliament, Representative Council, and Constitutional Tribunal.
The annual Krêkvars Arts Festival (held in July) is a week-long celebration of student creativity. Spring Day and Rag are campus-wide events that draw the entire UP community together.
UP offers on-campus residences for many students, plus day-house options for commuters. International students are encouraged to apply for residence early, as spots fill quickly. The Office for International Student Services provides dedicated support for international students' transition.
With an employment rate of 83% among graduates and an average starting salary of approximately USD 15,000 per year (positioned in the South African professional market), UP graduates are well-placed in one of Africa's most dynamic economies. The South African professional landscape — particularly in mining, financial services, law, healthcare, agriculture, and engineering — values UP degrees highly, and the university's proximity to Pretoria's government and diplomatic hub opens doors in public policy and international organisations.
Internationally, UP alumni are active in over 190 countries. The alumni network of 250,000+ includes Constitutional Court judges, Fortune 500 executives (Anton Rupert of Richemont; Marius Kloppers, former BHP CEO), and Olympic athletes. GIBS graduates in particular are recruited by major African and global firms in management consulting, banking, and corporate strategy.
South African market; sector and programme vary
Is the University of Pretoria taught in English?
Yes. Since 2019, UP officially adopted English as its sole language of instruction. All undergraduate and postgraduate programmes are delivered in English. This makes UP fully accessible to international students who are comfortable in English.
Do I need to sit a South African national exam (NSC/Matric) to apply?
No. International students are assessed on their own home-country qualifications — IB Diploma, A-Levels, international baccalaureates, national high school certificates, etc. UP's Admissions Office converts your results to an equivalent APS (Admission Point Score) for the relevant programme.
Yes, the IB Diploma is well recognised. A total score of 29 meets the general minimum entry requirement. Competitive programmes such as Medicine and Veterinary Science typically expect scores in the mid-to-high 30s. Specific subject grades in mathematics and sciences are important for STEM programmes.
How affordable is studying at UP compared to US or UK universities?
Very affordable by comparison. International tuition is approximately USD 5,000 per year, with total cost of attendance (including living costs) estimated at around USD 12,000 annually. This is a fraction of comparable-ranked universities in the US, UK, or Australia.
Do I need a study permit to study at UP as a foreign national?
Yes. Non-South African students require a study permit (not a visitor's visa). UP's International Student Services Office provides guidance on the application process after you receive your admission offer. Apply early — South African study permit processing can take several months.
Approximately 9% of UP's student body is international, representing students from across Africa and the world. The International Student Services Office provides dedicated orientation, registration, and support services for international students.
Does UP offer financial aid or scholarships to international students?
A limited number of bursaries and scholarships are available to international students. On average, UP-administered aid covers around 15% of costs for recipients. Most international students fund their studies through family resources, home-government scholarships, or external bursary programmes. Confirm current offerings on up.ac.za.
What is UP's strongest academic programme for international recognition?
The Faculty of Veterinary Science (the only vet school in South Africa) and GIBS business school are internationally distinctive. Engineering, Law, and Natural & Agricultural Sciences are also strong. UP has 53 researchers in the global top 1% by citation impact, making it genuinely research-intensive.
Academic Profile for International Applicants
The University of Pretoria assesses international students on the strength of their home-country academic qualifications. Admission is fundamentally merit-based: your grades, subject choices, and qualification level determine whether you meet the minimum entry requirements for your chosen programme. There are no SAT/ACT tests required, and the process is more straightforward than US-style holistic review — but competitive programmes are genuinely selective, and academic preparation matters enormously.
UP sets minimum requirements per programme via the Admission Point Score (APS) system. For international students, your grades are converted to an equivalent APS. Below are the key benchmarks from UP's facts profile.
General minimum; competitive programmes expect mid-30s
Programme-dependent; competitive faculties expect higher
The University of Pretoria is a test-blind institution for undergraduate admissions — SAT and ACT scores are neither required nor considered in any part of the admissions process. UP focuses entirely on your school-leaving qualifications and subject performance.
This is standard across South African universities, which use their own qualification conversion systems rather than standardised American admissions tests. You do not need to sit or submit SAT, ACT, AP, or any standardised test for admission to UP.
Unlike US universities, the University of Pretoria does not use SAT or ACT scores. Your application is assessed on your school-leaving qualification (IB Diploma, A-Levels, national high school certificate, or equivalent). If you have sat SAT/ACT exams for other applications, you may note them on your CV, but they carry no weight in UP's admissions process.
The only standardised tests that matter at UP are English proficiency tests (IELTS/TOEFL) for applicants whose previous schooling was not in English. See the English requirements section below.
IB Diploma, A-Levels & International Qualifications
UP has established conversion frameworks for major international qualifications. The IB Diploma and Cambridge A-Levels are among the most commonly presented international qualifications and are well understood by UP's admissions team.
For the IB Diploma, a total score of 29 meets the general minimum. However, programme-specific subject requirements apply — for example, Engineering and Sciences programmes require a minimum grade in Mathematics (HL is preferred for technically demanding programmes), while Health Sciences typically requires both Biology and Chemistry. A-Level applicants should check the specific A-Level grade requirements per faculty.
Minimum 29 overall. Competitive faculties (Veterinary Science, Medicine) typically expect 32–36+. Subject-level requirements apply: check your intended faculty's prerequisites for HL/SL subject requirements.
A-Level grades are well recognised. Three A-Level subjects at C grade or above typically meet minimum requirements; competitive programmes expect B grades or higher in relevant subjects. Check the APS conversion table on the UP website.
US High School Diploma (with strong GPA), European Baccalaureate, Indian CBSE/ISC, and other national school-leaving certificates are considered. UP's admissions team converts grades to APS equivalents. In some cases, SAQA evaluation may be required.
https://www.up.ac.za/prospective-students
Choosing the right subjects in IB or A-Levels is critical for admission to UP's most sought-after faculties. Here is what each major faculty expects.
Mathematics, Life Sciences (Biology), and Physical Sciences (Chemistry and/or Physics) are essential. This is the most competitive programme at UP — subject strength and overall score matter greatly.
Health Sciences (Medicine, Pharmacy, etc.)
Life Sciences and Physical Sciences are typically required. Mathematics is expected. The IB curriculum's Biology HL and Chemistry HL combination is the strongest preparation path.
Mathematics (HL for IB) and Physical Sciences are essential. Strong performance in these subjects is the primary differentiator. Computer Science is an advantage for IT programmes.
No single prescribed science requirement, but strong English Language and a humanities subject are advantageous. LLB at UP is a professional degree — command of English and critical reasoning are paramount.
Economics & Management Sciences (GIBS pathway)
Mathematics is required. Economics, Business Studies, and a language are valuable additions. For the undergraduate Business Science degree, a solid mathematics background is non-negotiable.
Mathematics and Life Sciences or Physical Sciences, depending on the specific degree. Agricultural science degrees may require Life Sciences; chemistry-oriented programmes require Physical Sciences.
Since all instruction at UP is in English, proficiency is required. Students who were previously educated in English (e.g., IB students, British curriculum, English-medium schools) are generally exempt. Others must submit IELTS Academic or TOEFL iBT scores.
No individual band below 6.0 recommended; check faculty-specific requirements
Computer-based or internet-based accepted
Confirm with UP Admissions whether accepted — verify on official site
Applicants whose previous schooling was in English (e.g., IB English A) are typically exempt
https://www.up.ac.za/prospective-students/international-student-services
Unlike US universities, UP's admissions is not holistic — but your subject choices and academic trajectory matter from early in high school. Here is a grade-by-grade roadmap.
Grades 9–10: Choose Subjects Strategically
Identify your intended faculty early. If you plan to apply to Engineering, Health Sciences, or Veterinary Science, ensure your curriculum includes Mathematics and the required sciences. Do not drop essential prerequisites.
By the end of Grade 11, you should have a clear picture of whether your grades meet or exceed UP's minimum APS for your programme. If you are applying for Medicine or Vet Science, assess whether your trajectory is realistically competitive — these programmes require scores well above the minimum.
Grade 11 Semester 2: Prepare Application Documents
Start gathering certified copies of transcripts, identify your English proficiency test need, and research SAQA evaluation requirements for your country's qualification. UP's international student portal has a checklist.
April–September: Apply in the Application Window
UP typically opens applications in April–May. Submit early — international students face additional processing time for qualification evaluation. A September submission gives adequate buffer before the October close and allows time for study permit applications.
Provisional offers are usually made on predicted/Grade 11 results, with final offers confirmed on your final Grade 12 results. Do not let your performance slip in your final year — conditional offers can be withdrawn.
Common Academic Mistakes International Applicants Make
Applying without checking faculty-specific subject prerequisites — each faculty publishes required subjects and UP will not waive them
Dropping Mathematics in Grade 10 or 11 and then applying to Engineering, Health Sciences, or Commerce programmes that require it
Assuming that meeting the minimum APS guarantees entry to oversubscribed programmes like Medicine or Veterinary Science — minimum is the floor, not the target
Submitting uncertified copies of transcripts — UP requires certified (notarised) copies of all academic records
Leaving the study permit application until after admission — South African study permits require lead time; apply the moment you have your offer letter
Underestimating English proficiency requirements — even in an English-medium IB school, ensure your IELTS/TOEFL exemption status is confirmed by the Admissions Office
Not researching the SAQA evaluation requirement for your country's qualification — some national certificates need external evaluation before UP can assess them
Cost of Studying at the University of Pretoria
The University of Pretoria is one of the world's most affordable research-intensive universities at this global ranking tier. International students pay approximately USD 5,000 per year in tuition — a fraction of comparable institutions in the United States, United Kingdom, or Australia. Total annual costs (tuition plus living) are approximately USD 12,000. For students seeking a serious research environment and an internationally recognised degree without the debt burden of Western universities, UP offers exceptional value.
The figures below are annual estimates for international students in undergraduate programmes. Costs are denominated in South African Rand (ZAR) and converted to approximate USD. Currency fluctuations will affect the USD equivalent — verify current fees on the UP fees schedule each year.
Per academic year; varies by faculty and programme
Registration, IT, student services fees typically bundled
Accommodation, food, transport, personal expenses
Annual estimate; higher for Medicine and Veterinary Science
Non-refundable; paid at time of application
Veterinary Science and Medicine typically carry higher fees than average. Always verify the current fee schedule at www.up.ac.za/fees.
Financial aid for international students at UP is limited but exists. UP-administered bursaries and scholarships collectively cover costs for a portion of qualifying international students — on average, recipients receive aid covering approximately 15% of their total costs. Most international students at UP fund their studies through personal and family resources, their home-country government scholarships, or external bursary programmes aimed at African development.
South African government-funded financial aid schemes (NSFAS) are restricted to South African citizens and permanent residents, so international students are not eligible. The African Union, bilateral government scholarship programmes (e.g., from DAAD Germany, Chevening UK, and various African government schemes), and UP's own merit-based awards are the primary routes for international financial support.
https://www.up.ac.za/student-affairs/bursaries-and-scholarships
The following are categories of scholarship relevant to international students at UP. Verify current availability, eligibility, and amounts on the official UP website or scholarship provider — amounts and availability change each cycle.
The University of Pretoria awards a limited number of merit-based bursaries to high-achieving students, including international applicants. These are typically awarded based on outstanding academic results at entry. Confirm current offerings with the Financial Aid Office.
UP has more robust funding structures at postgraduate level through the National Research Foundation (NRF) and UP Research Office. International students admitted to MSc, PhD, and postdoctoral programmes should explore NRF-funded grants via their supervisors.
African Government Bilateral Scholarships
Several African governments — including those of Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Kenya, and Nigeria — offer bilateral scholarships for study at South African universities. Check with your national Ministry of Education for available programmes.
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) funds African students for study in Germany and at select African institutions. Some DAAD programmes are accessible from a South African base. Check www.daad.de for Africa-specific scholarships.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program funds African students at selected African universities, including some South African institutions. Check whether UP is a current partner institution and eligibility criteria at mastercardfdn.org.
https://www.up.ac.za/student-affairs/bursaries-and-scholarships
At roughly USD 12,000 per year total (tuition plus living), the University of Pretoria offers an extraordinary value proposition for internationally ambitious students. For context: a comparable-ranked UK university might cost USD 30,000–50,000 per year for an international student; a US university at this ranking tier might cost USD 50,000–70,000. UP delivers a QS top-350 education at one-quarter to one-sixth of those costs.
Pretoria's cost of living is substantially lower than London, Sydney, or North American cities. Campus accommodation is relatively affordable, local food and transport are inexpensive, and the ZAR exchange rate has historically favoured students earning or saving in USD, EUR, or GBP. Students can live comfortably in Pretoria on the estimated USD 7,000 annual living budget.
Secure your admission offer before applying for most external scholarships — many schemes require proof of university admission. Apply to UP during the April–September window.
Check Your National Government Scholarship Programmes
Contact your Ministry of Education or national scholarship authority. Many African and Asian governments have bilateral scholarships for study at South African universities. Deadlines are often 6–12 months before the academic year.
Visit the UP Financial Aid Office website to review current bursary opportunities for international students. Submit any required financial motivation letters or supporting documents early.
Explore Postgraduate Funding (if applicable)
If applying for an honours, master's, or PhD programme, speak with your intended supervisor early about NRF funding opportunities. Many postgraduate positions at UP come with research assistantships.
Factor in the South African study permit application costs, medical aid (international students are required to have medical insurance — confirm current requirements with UP), and return travel costs when planning your annual budget.
How much does it cost per year to study at UP as an international student?
Approximately USD 5,000 in tuition and USD 7,000 in living costs, for a total annual cost of attendance of approximately USD 12,000. Fees vary by programme — Medicine and Veterinary Science may be higher. Always verify the current fee schedule on www.up.ac.za/fees.
Am I eligible for NSFAS (South African government student loans)?
No. NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) is exclusively for South African citizens and permanent residents. International students are not eligible.
Does UP require international students to have medical insurance?
Yes, international students are generally required to have medical cover. UP recommends or requires membership of an approved medical aid scheme. Confirm current requirements with the International Student Services Office before arrival.
Can I work while studying in South Africa?
Study permit holders have limited right to work. South African immigration regulations generally do not permit full-time work on a study permit. Part-time on-campus employment may be possible. Confirm current regulations with the Department of Home Affairs or UP's International Office.
Are there fee concessions for exchange students?
If you are coming as an exchange or visiting student through a formal institutional agreement between UP and your home university, fee arrangements are governed by that agreement. Contact your home university's international office for details.
South African universities, including the University of Pretoria, do not use US-style application essays or supplemental writing prompts in the standard undergraduate admissions process. Admission is qualification-based. However, certain programmes require a motivation letter or portfolio, and for competitive programmes where many candidates meet the academic minimum, how you present yourself in optional documents can make a difference. This guide explains what you need, and how to make every element of your application count.
The UP Application System: Direct, Qualification-Based
The University of Pretoria uses its own direct online application portal — not UCAS, Common App, or any centralised South African system. Each applicant applies directly to UP through www.up.ac.za. The process is primarily grade-driven: you submit your qualifications, and UP's Admissions Office converts your grades to the Admission Point Score (APS) system to determine eligibility for your chosen programme.
There is no standard personal statement required for most undergraduate programmes. However, selected programmes (Architecture, Fine Arts, some Health Sciences streams, Music) require a portfolio or a brief statement of motivation. Postgraduate applications often include a research proposal or motivation letter. Always check the specific requirements for your programme on the faculty website.
https://www.up.ac.za/prospective-students
For programmes that request a motivation letter or statement of motivation, UP is looking for a clear, concise explanation of why you want to study this specific programme and what in your background prepares you for it. Unlike US supplemental essays, this is not a place for personal storytelling or extensive narrative — it is closer to a professional statement of purpose.
Statement of Motivation (Portfolio Programmes)
A motivation letter is required for programmes in Architecture, Fine Arts, Music, and certain Health Sciences streams. Specific word limits and formats are set by each faculty. Check your programme's specific requirements on the UP faculty website.
Keep it focused: explain your interest in this specific discipline, highlight relevant experience or preparation, and demonstrate that you understand what the programme entails at UP. Avoid generic 'I have always loved this subject' openings. Instead, identify something specific — a project, a challenge, a moment — that crystallised your direction. For Architecture and Fine Arts, this letter accompanies a portfolio, so it should speak to your portfolio's themes rather than repeat what the portfolio shows visually.
https://www.up.ac.za/prospective-students
Postgraduate Research Proposal / Motivation
Master's and PhD applicants at UP are typically required to submit a research proposal and a motivation letter as part of the application to a specific department. Requirements vary by faculty and supervisor. Check with your intended department or supervisor.
For postgraduate applicants, the research proposal is the critical document. It should clearly define your research question, situate it within existing literature, and explain your proposed methodology. Contact potential supervisors before submitting your application — in South African research universities, being accepted often depends on a supervisor agreeing to take you on. A well-targeted email to a potential supervisor, demonstrating familiarity with their recent work, is a powerful first step.
https://www.up.ac.za/postgraduate-studies
No Personal Statement for Most Undergraduate Programmes
The vast majority of undergraduate degree programmes at UP do not require a personal statement. If you are applying to a standard BSc, BCom, LLB, BEng, or BA programme, your application will be assessed purely on your academic qualifications. There is no Common App, no UCAS personal statement, and no supplemental essays.
If you are applying from a background of US college application preparation and feel the urge to write something — channel that energy into ensuring your academic documents are complete, certified, and submitted early. For competitive programmes, what matters most is your IB or A-Level subject profile and results, not your ability to write a compelling personal narrative.
Portfolio and Motivation Requirements by Programme
A portfolio of creative or design work is typically required. The statement of motivation should explain your design thinking and engagement with the built environment. The portfolio is assessed by the faculty — follow the specific format and size requirements published by the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology.
Portfolio or audition requirements apply. For Fine Arts, submit a portfolio that demonstrates technical range and creative development. For Music, an audition (in person or via recorded performance) is typically required. Confirm current requirements with the Faculty of Humanities.
Health Sciences (Medicine, Pharmacy, etc.)
Some Health Sciences programmes use additional selection criteria beyond academic grades, which may include a brief motivation or structured interview. UP's Faculty of Health Sciences publishes specific selection criteria — review these carefully before applying.
All postgraduate research degrees require a motivation letter and research proposal, and most require prior contact with a potential supervisor. The stronger your supervisor relationship before applying, the better your chances of acceptance.
Even in a grades-first admissions system, the way you prepare and present your application documents sends a signal. Here is how to put your best foot forward.
International applicants face longer processing times than domestic students. Submitting your application in May–July (rather than the October deadline) gives UP's admissions team time to evaluate your qualifications, request any missing documents, and issue an offer with adequate time for your study permit application.
Clearly identify your qualification type (e.g., 'IB Diploma, International School of Nairobi, June 2025') and ensure all documents are certified. Ambiguity in qualification type causes delays.
Contact the Faculty Directly for Competitive Programmes
If you are applying to Medicine or Veterinary Science and you are close to but above the minimum entry requirements, a brief, professional email to the faculty's undergraduate admissions coordinator — asking about the typical profile admitted and confirming your documentation is complete — demonstrates initiative and ensures your file is complete.
If you need an English proficiency test, sit it by August at the latest. Test dates fill up, and score reports take 3–4 weeks to arrive. Having your score ready before you apply removes a common bottleneck.
Applying too late — international students need the most lead time due to SAQA evaluation and study permit requirements; the recommended international deadline is September
Submitting photocopies rather than certified copies of transcripts and qualification certificates — uncertified documents are not accepted
Applying to a programme without confirming prerequisite subject requirements — you cannot substitute equivalent subjects without prior faculty approval
Overlooking the medical aid/insurance requirement — UP expects international students to have cover from arrival; this must be arranged before you depart
Confusing 'application to UP' with 'application for a study permit' — these are two separate processes; begin the study permit application immediately after receiving your UP offer letter
Writing a generic motivation letter (if required) that could apply to any university — reference specific UP strengths, specific faculty resources, or specific research at UP that relates to your goals
Not verifying whether your national qualification requires SAQA evaluation — some countries' school-leaving certificates need external evaluation before UP can assess them
Frequently Asked Questions About the UP Application
Do I need to write a personal statement or essay to apply to UP?
For most undergraduate programmes, no. UP's standard admissions process is grade-based and does not require a personal statement. Only certain programmes (Architecture, Fine Arts, Music, some Health Sciences streams, and all postgraduate research degrees) require additional documents such as a portfolio or motivation letter.
UP uses its own direct online application portal at www.up.ac.za. There is no centralised South African application system equivalent to UCAS or Common App. You apply directly to the university and can list multiple programme choices in order of preference.
Yes, you can typically list multiple programme preferences in your UP application. Programmes are considered in order of preference, and you will receive an offer for the highest-preference programme for which you qualify.
When will I receive an admission decision?
Provisional offers are typically issued from October onwards for the following February intake. International applicants who submit early (by September) should expect offers by November–December. Offers are often conditional on your final Grade 12 results.
What happens if my final results are lower than my predicted results?
If your final results fall below the minimum APS for your programme, UP may withdraw your offer, waitlist you, or offer you an alternative programme. Communicate with the Admissions Office immediately if your results change significantly from predicted grades.
Most programmes do not require an interview. However, some Health Sciences and fine arts programmes may include an interview or audition as part of the selection process. This is published by the relevant faculty — check the faculty-specific admissions page.
I am applying as a postgraduate student. How is the process different?
Postgraduate admissions at UP are faculty- and supervisor-driven. You typically need to identify a potential supervisor, submit a research proposal and motivation letter, and provide academic transcripts and references. Contact your target department directly and early — supervisor availability is the key variable in postgraduate admission.