If you’re planning to start university in 2026 and are aiming for a world-class education in a setting that blends academic prestige with natural beauty, look no further than Stellenbosch University (Maties)—more affectionately known as Maties. Located in the heart of South Africa’s Western Cape Winelands, Maties is more than just one of the country’s oldest universities—it’s a hub of innovation, transformation, and opportunity.
But because Stellenbosch is one of the most competitive institutions in the country, applying successfully requires more than just good marks. You need to understand the full process, prepare your documents properly, and apply early to give yourself the best possible chance. That’s exactly what this guide will help you do.
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Why Stellenbosch University (Maties)?
Founded in 1918, Maties has built a powerful academic reputation—ranked among the top three universities in South Africa and frequently listed among the best in Africa. With over 150 departments across 10 faculties, Maties offers a mix of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes that are globally respected.
Some of the university’s most sought-after faculties include:
Health and Medical Sciences, known for its MBChB programme
Engineering, which attracts thousands of top Maths and Science students annually
AgriSciences, given Stellenbosch’s unique location in the winelands
Law and Education, which are often oversubscribed due to high demand
What sets Maties apart is its strong focus on research, innovation, and sustainability, as well as its commitment to multilingualism and transformation. Students are exposed to an active, vibrant campus culture, supported by modern residences, sport facilities, entrepreneurial hubs, and a global alumni network.
And while Maties is often associated with tradition, it’s constantly evolving. Today, it serves a diverse and dynamic student body, offering support services that help young people from all backgrounds succeed.
When Do Stellenbosch Applications Open and Close?
Timing is everything when it comes to university applications. For 2026, Stellenbosch University’s online application system will open on 1 April 2025.
Here are the key deadlines to diarise:
Applications for undergraduate programmes close on 31 July 2025.
Applications for residence placement also close on 31 July 2025.
Financial aid applications open on 1 October 2025 and close on 31 October 2025.
NBT (National Benchmark Test) scores, where required, must be submitted before the closing date.
No late applications are accepted—so apply early, especially for competitive programmes like Medicine, Law, and Engineering.
Who Should Apply?
Maties encourages applications from:
Current Grade 12 learners (applying with Grade 11 final or Matric June/Trial results)
Matriculants from previous years
Students from other universities or TVET colleges, applying to transfer or upskill
International students who meet SAQA-equivalent requirements
Mature applicants or applicants applying through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) route
Regardless of your background, Maties assesses applications holistically—considering your academic results, required NBTs, and additional documentation if necessary (like portfolios or letters of motivation for certain courses).
How to Apply to Maties: Step-by-Step
Applying to Stellenbosch University isn’t difficult—but it does require accuracy, attention to detail, and early planning. Below is a detailed breakdown of the process.
1. Decide What to Study
This is your starting point—and one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Stellenbosch offers more than 150 undergraduate programmes, across faculties like:
Arts and Social Sciences
AgriSciences
Education
Law
Economic and Management Sciences
Theology
Engineering
Health Sciences
Science
Military Science (in partnership with the SA Defence Force)
Each programme has its own set of admission requirements, including minimum APS scores and subject-specific criteria.
If you’re not 100% sure which direction you’d like to go, head over to FundiMatch—a free and easy tool that helps match your marks, interests, and strengths to a course and career field that’s right for you.
2. Prepare Your Documents
Start collecting your documents early, so that you’re ready when applications open. Make sure that all copies are certified within the last 3 months, and that all scans are clear.
You’ll need:
Certified copy of your South African ID or passport
Your most recent academic results (e.g. Grade 11 final report, or Grade 12 mid-year/trial marks)
If you’ve already matriculated, include your final National Senior Certificate
Proof of application fee payment (currently R100 for most applicants)
Academic transcripts if you’ve studied at another institution
Additional documents for specific programmes, like:
Portfolios for Fine Arts or Music
NBT results for selected faculties
CV or motivational letter (for specific programmes like Education or Sport Science)
3. Apply Online
Once the portal opens on 1 April 2025, you’ll head over to www.maties.com or www.sun.ac.za to access the application system.
You’ll need to:
Create an online profile and register
Fill in your personal and academic details
Select up to three programme choices
Upload your documents
Pay the R100 application fee
Submit your application
Once submitted, you’ll receive a student number and confirmation. You can use this number to track your application and communication with the university.
4. Write the NBTs (if required)
While not all programmes require NBTs, they are mandatory for students applying to the Faculty of Law, the School for Tomorrow, or any programme where language and numeracy proficiency are essential.
We recommend writing your NBTs as early as June or July, to ensure your scores are submitted before the 31 July deadline.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once your application is in, the university begins evaluating it based on your academic performance, NBTs (if applicable), and overall readiness for university.
Here’s what to expect:
Tracking Your Application: You can check your status using your student number via the online portal.
Offers: Stellenbosch sends out conditional offers from August to October. These offers become firm once your final Matric results are submitted and meet the conditions.
Acceptance: If you receive an offer, you must accept it within the time frame provided. If you miss the deadline, your spot may be given to someone else.
Registration: Once your offer is confirmed, you’ll be guided through online registration—usually in January 2026.
Need Help Covering the Costs?
Maties is one of South Africa’s most prestigious institutions—but that doesn’t mean it’s out of reach financially. Whether you qualify for NSFAS, merit bursaries, or need a bit of help bridging the gap, there’s support available.
If you’re looking for flexible, reliable financial support, Fundi offers student loans that can help cover your:
Tuition fees
Registration costs
Study materials and equipment
Accommodation
Transport and food allowances
Final Tips for a Strong Application
As you wrap up your application, keep the following in mind:
Apply as early as possible—this improves your chances and gives you time to correct any issues.
Make sure all documents are certified, legible, and up to date.
Double-check your programme requirements, especially if you’re applying for selective programmes like MBChB, Law, or Engineering.
Write your NBTs early if required.
Apply for residence and funding at the same time as your academic application.
Use FundiMatch to help you choose the right path if you’re still unsure.
Need Help Paying for Your Studies at Maties? Fundi Can Help
Studying at Stellenbosch University is a big investment in your future—but that doesn’t mean you have to figure out the finances alone. Whether you need help covering your tuition, registration fees, accommodation, textbooks, or even daily living expenses, Fundi offers student loans that are built to support your journey.
Getting started is quick and easy:
Head to the Fundi website
Select the student loan option that fits your needs
Fill in your details and submit your application
A Fundi consultant will be in touch to guide you through the next steps. With Fundi by your side, you can focus on your studies at Maties with less stress and more confidence.
