If you’re looking for a university that blends academic excellence with a deep commitment to rural development, community upliftment, and transformation, the University of Limpopo (UL) could be the right place for you. Located in Turfloop, just outside Polokwane in Limpopo, the university is a proudly South African university that offers accessible, high-quality education to students from across the country and beyond.
Whether you’re a first-time applicant or someone returning to study, this guide covers everything you need to know about applying to UL for the 2026 academic year—from important dates and requirements to helpful tips and funding advice.
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Why Choose the University of Limpopo?
The University of Limpopo is known for its strong focus on empowering underrepresented communities and producing graduates who are both academically prepared and socially conscious. It’s a university where education meets purpose—especially if you’re interested in fields like public health, law, education, agriculture, and the sciences.
UL’s faculties include:
Health Sciences
Humanities
Management and Law
Science and Agriculture
With modern facilities, career-oriented programmes, and a nurturing student environment, UL creates opportunities for students to grow into professionals who can make a difference in their communities and the world.
When Do Applications Open and Close?
To get into the University of Limpopo in 2026, you’ll need to apply during the official application window in 2025. Here’s a quick look at the key dates:
Applications open: May 2025
Applications close: 30 September 2025
Applications for MBChB (Medicine): Close earlier, usually end of July 2025
On-campus accommodation applications: Close on 30 September 2025
Late applications are generally not accepted, so apply early to secure your spot—especially for competitive programmes like Medicine and Law.
Who Should Apply?
UL welcomes a wide range of applicants, including:
Grade 12 learners who expect to complete matric in 2025
Learners who already have an NSC, IEB, or NCV Level 4 qualification
Students wanting to transfer from other institutions
Applicants seeking postgraduate studies (honours, master’s, or doctoral levels)
International students with equivalent qualifications
Before you apply, make sure you meet the minimum admission requirements for your programme of interest. Most courses require a specific APS (Admission Point Score) and certain subjects, like Life Sciences for Health Sciences or Mathematics for Commerce and Science.
How to Apply to UL: Step-by-Step
Once you’ve confirmed that the University of Limpopo is the right choice for you, follow these steps to complete your application with ease.
1. Decide What You Want to Study
Start by exploring UL’s official prospectus or website to see what programmes are on offer. Each faculty outlines detailed admission requirements for its courses—including subject combinations, APS scores, and any additional requirements (like NBTs for Medicine).
If you’re still figuring out which path to take, try FundiMatch—a free online tool that helps match your interests, strengths, and school subjects with the right qualification. It’s a smart way to make informed choices about your future.
2. Gather All Your Supporting Documents
Before starting your application, make sure you’ve got all your documents ready and certified within the last three months. You’ll need:
A certified copy of your South African ID or passport (for international students)
Certified copies of your academic results:
Grade 11 final and/or Grade 12 June/Trial results if still in school
Final NSC certificate if you’ve already matriculated
Academic transcripts and conduct certificate if transferring from another institution
Proof of payment for the application fee (if required)
Additional documents if needed (e.g., NBT results, CV, or portfolio for certain programmes)
A working cellphone number and email address
Ensure that all documents are scanned clearly to avoid delays or rejection.
3. Apply Online via the UL Website
UL has a fully online application system. Here’s how to use it:
Go to the website: www.ul.ac.za
Click on “Online Applications”
Register your profile and log in
Fill in your personal details and select your programmes of interest
Upload all required supporting documents
Submit your application
After submitting, you’ll receive a student number that you’ll use to track your application status.
4. Pay the Application Fee
In recent years, UL has waived application fees for online submissions. However, if a fee is reinstated, you’ll need to pay and upload proof. Always confirm with UL’s latest announcements on their website.
After You Apply
Submitting your application is just the beginning. Here’s what you need to keep an eye on after applying.
Track Your Application
You can log into UL’s application portal using your student number to track the status of your application. The university will also contact you by SMS or email, so make sure your details are correct and check regularly for updates.
Offers and Acceptance
UL will send out firm or conditional offers to successful applicants. A conditional offer means your place is reserved until your final matric results are confirmed. You’ll need to accept your offer online by the specified deadline.
For highly competitive programmes (like MBChB), you may also be required to submit NBT results or attend interviews as part of the selection process.
Registration
Once you’ve accepted your offer, you’ll receive communication from UL about registration. This usually takes place in January or February, and includes information on module selection, tuition payment, and orientation dates.
Need Help Paying for Your Studies?
A university education is one of the best investments you can make—but it can come with financial pressure. Fortunately, there are several funding options available for students at UL, including:
The University of Limpopo’s merit bursaries or faculty-based awards
External bursaries from organisations and private funders
Final Tips for Applying to UL
Before you hit “submit,” make sure you’ve ticked all the boxes with these helpful tips:
Apply early—don’t wait until the last minute, especially for popular programmes.
Check your entry requirements—APS scores and subject choices are crucial.
Get your documents certified and clear—poor-quality uploads can delay your application.
Use FundiMatch to explore study paths if you’re still undecided.
Track your status regularly to respond quickly to any requests or changes.
Need Help Covering Your Study Costs? Fundi Can Help
If you’re worried about how you’ll pay for your studies at UL, Fundi has your back. From tuition and registration to textbooks and living expenses, Fundi’s student loans are designed to support your education journey.
Here’s how to get started:
Visit the Fundi website
Select the loan option that suits your needs
Fill in your details and submit your application
A Fundi consultant will guide you through the rest—so you can focus on reaching your goals without the financial stress.
