Walter Sisulu University (WSU) is a comprehensive public university in the Eastern Cape, serving approximately 30,000 students across five campuses. Named after the legendary anti-apartheid activist, WSU is committed to providing accessible, quality higher education.
The university offers programmes through its faculties of Business Science, Education, Engineering & Technology, Health Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences & Humanities. WSU maintains strong community engagement and research output.
Applications typically open in April and close in October for the following academic year. The primary intake is in January/February. Some programmes offer mid-year intake.
Results are released in November/December. NSFAS applications run August-November through www.nsfas.org.za. Early application is strongly recommended as competitive programmes fill quickly.
Tuition fees range from R20,000 to R50,000 annually depending on the programme. Health Sciences and Engineering tend toward the higher end. Diploma programmes are generally more affordable than degree programmes.
The university offers flexible payment plans. NSFAS covers full tuition for qualifying students. Application fees are minimal and accessible to all prospective students.
Applicants need a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Bachelor’s pass for degree programmes or a Diploma pass for diploma programmes. Minimum APS scores vary by programme.
Specific programmes require particular subject combinations. Health Sciences programmes are highly competitive with strict entry requirements. International applicants need SAQA-evaluated qualifications.
WSU is fully registered with NSFAS. Students from qualifying households receive full tuition coverage plus monthly living allowances. Apply at www.nsfas.org.za during August-November.
Beyond NSFAS, WSU offers institutional bursaries, merit scholarships, and faculty-specific funding. The Financial Aid Office provides comprehensive support with all funding applications.
Mthatha Campus (Main): The flagship campus on Nelson Mandela Drive, Mthatha. Houses central administration and most faculties.
Butterworth Campus: Serves the Amathole District with education and business programmes.
Buffalo City Campus (East London): Urban campus offering diverse programmes for the metro area.
Komani Campus (Queenstown): Serves the inland Eastern Cape communities.
Chiselhurst Campus: Located in East London, offering additional programme capacity.
Apply online through www.wsu.ac.za. Complete the application form, select your programme preferences, and upload certified copies of ID and academic results.
In-person applications are accepted at all five campuses during business hours. The admissions team provides guidance on programme selection. Contact the central admissions office for support.
Website: www.wsu.ac.za
Mthatha Campus (Main): Nelson Mandela Drive, Mthatha | Tel: 047 502 2111
Butterworth Campus: Tel: 047 401 6000
Buffalo City (East London) Campus: Tel: 043 708 5200
Komani (Queenstown) Campus: Tel: 045 808 5309
Chiselhurst Campus: Located in East London
WSU offers undergraduate degrees, diplomas, and postgraduate qualifications across six faculties. The Faculty of Health Sciences provides nursing, medical laboratory, and environmental health programmes. Engineering & Technology covers civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.
Business Science offers accounting, economics, and management qualifications. Education provides teacher training across multiple specializations. Natural Sciences covers agriculture, biological sciences, and IT. All programmes are nationally accredited.