University of Pretoria (TUKS) is one of South Africa’s largest and most distinguished research universities, with a global reputation for academic excellence. Located in Pretoria, the administrative capital, UP consistently ranks among the top universities in South Africa and globally.
The university operates across multiple campuses in Pretoria, each supporting specialized academic programs. With local and international learners, UP fosters critical thinking, innovation, and professional development.
As a NSFAS-eligible institution, University of Pretoria is committed to making quality education accessible. The Faculty of Veterinary Science is the only veterinary faculty in Africa.
- Applications Opened: 1 April 2025
- General Programs Closing: 30 June 2025
- Faculty of Veterinary Science: 31 May 2025 (earlier deadline)
- Application Fee: R300 (non-refundable)
- Registration: January 2026
All applications must be submitted online through www.up.ac.za/online-application. Apply as early as possible to improve acceptance chances and secure accommodation.
- Undergraduate Registration: R11,000 initial payment
- Postgraduate Registration: R13,500 initial payment
- 2.5% discount if account paid in full by 30 April 2026
- 50% due by 30 April | 100% due by 31 July 2026
UPOnline distance learning operates on a modular pay-per-module basis. Additional costs may include residence fees, technology fees, and administrative levies.
Undergraduate: National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent with strong performance. Subject requirements vary by faculty – engineering and health sciences require mathematics and science at higher levels. International students need English proficiency and visa eligibility.
Postgraduate: Relevant bachelor’s degree, often requiring specific work or research experience. Master’s and doctoral programs have distinct criteria and supervisor arrangements.
Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission – competitive selection with limited spaces in high-demand programs.
UP operates across five campuses in Pretoria:
- Hatfield Campus: Main urban campus in Hatfield suburb, hosting the largest student population and central administration
- Groenkloof Campus: Specialized facility supporting specific academic programs
- Mamelodi Campus: Community-engaged campus serving Pretoria township area
- Onderstepoort Campus: Home to the renowned Faculty of Veterinary Science with dedicated teaching facilities and veterinary hospital
- Prinshof Campus: Clinical teaching facility supporting health sciences and medical programs
All campuses provide accommodation, library services, computer facilities, and student support. University shuttle services facilitate transport between campuses.
Apply online at www.up.ac.za/online-application.
- Create a personal applicant account
- Select preferred faculty and program(s)
- Complete all required fields accurately
- Upload scanned documents (ID, qualifications, certificates)
- Pay R300 non-refundable application fee
- Submit before the deadline
- Receive confirmation email with tracking number
Required: Certified NSC copies, identity document, proof of citizenship or visa status. Early submission strongly recommended.
- General Enquiries: (012) 420-4111
- Student Service Centre Email: ssc@up.ac.za
- Contact Centre: (012) 420-3111
- Website: www.up.ac.za
- Application Portal: www.up.ac.za/online-application
NSFAS Inquiries: Access SMAX via desa.up.ac.za/saw/ess for personalized financial aid information.
UP offers programs across 9 faculties:
- Veterinary Science – Only veterinary faculty in Africa
- Engineering, Built Environment and IT
- Health Sciences – Medicine, nursing, dentistry
- Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Law
- Economic and Management Sciences
- Education
- Humanities
- Theology and Religion
Flexible learning options include full-time and UPOnline distance learning.
UP is a NSFAS-eligible institution. NSFAS provides grants and bursaries to eligible students from disadvantaged backgrounds, covering tuition fees, accommodation, meals, and learning materials.
Eligibility: South African citizen, meet income threshold requirements, admitted to an accredited public university program. Determined by a means test evaluating family financial circumstances.
Apply through www.nsfas.org.za during the designated period. UP’s Student Funding Department manages fund disbursement and assists with NSFAS queries.