2026 Application Information
Applications Open
01 April 2025
Applications Close
31 October 2025
Time Remaining
Application Fee
FREE for South African Citizens
About Nelson Mandela University
Nelson Mandela University is the only university in the world that carries the name of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. The University embraces Nelson Mandela's challenge to be "caring, responsible and innovative", and recognises the importance of continuously growing and adapting in the pursuit of knowledge and lifelong learning.
We offer both general and professionally oriented university qualifications, as well as technologically and career-oriented programmes. The success of our career-focused programmes lies in the hands-on involvement of industry and business. Undergraduate programmes include higher certificates, diplomas and first degrees, i.e., bachelor's degrees.
All diplomas and some degree programmes are career-focused, while others are more general and allow students to tailor their interests, aptitudes and career plans.
Admission Requirements
The table below explains what the minimum statutory requirements for each qualification level are (Higher Certificate, Diploma or Degree). The university has also set its own additional minimum entry requirements. Please note that the achievement of the minimum statutory requirements does not necessarily guarantee admission to any programme or field of study.
| Qualification | Minimum Entry Requirement |
|---|---|
| Higher Certificate | Pass the NSC, with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the higher education institution, together with any other university requirements. |
| Diploma | Pass the NSC with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the higher education institution, coupled with an achievement rating of 3 (40–49%) or better in four recognised NSC 20-credit subjects, together with any other university requirements. |
| Bachelor's Degree | Pass the NSC with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the higher education institution, coupled with an achievement rating of 4 (50–59%) or better in four NSC 20-credit subjects together with any other university requirements. |
Important Notes:
- Your application for early admission should be submitted before the August closing date.
- Late applications will only be considered based on academic merit until September closing date.
- Places for some qualifications are limited - submit your application early.
- Provisional admission is based on your Applicant Score (AS) from Grade 11 or Grade 12 June/September exams.
- Final decision is based on your final Grade 12 results.
How to Apply
Application Steps:
- Apply Online: Visit www.mandela.ac.za/Study-at-Mandela
- Check Requirements: Ensure you meet the minimum Applicant Score (AS) and subject requirements
- Submit Documentation: Include all required supporting documents
- Include Contact: Add your cell number for status updates
- Additional Processes: Some qualifications require portfolios, interviews, or medical tests
Required Documents:
- Certified copy of your ID document (compulsory for SA Citizens)
- Certified copy of your latest school results (Grade 11 final, or Grade 12 June/September results)
- Declaration by your parent/legal guardian/surety form (download from website)
- Certified copy of parent/legal guardian/surety's ID document
- Completed disability assessments form (if applicable)
- Proof of your current residential/home or postal address
NB: Your student number/ID must be on all documents. Applications without all documents cannot be processed.
Applicant Score (AS) Calculation
Your Applicant Score (AS) is calculated using six subjects (Life Orientation is excluded):
Calculation Method:
- Include results for: 1) Home language; 2) 1st Additional Language; 3) Maths/Maths Lit/Technical Maths
- For 7 NSC subjects: Add percentages for six 20-credit subjects (excluding LO) = Score out of 600
- For 8+ subjects: Add percentages for three compulsory subjects + required subjects + next best subjects (max 6)
- Quintile 1-3 school applicants with 50%+ in LO: Add 7 points to final AS
School Quintiles Note:
All South African public ordinary schools are categorised into five groups (quintiles). Quintile 1-3 are non-fee-paying schools, while Quintile 4 & 5 are fee-paying schools.
Faculties & Programmes
Nelson Mandela University offers programmes across seven faculties, each with its own focus and color scheme:
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no application fee for South African citizens. International students are required to pay an application fee.
MBChB, BPharm and Bachelor of Radiography (Diagnostic) qualifications close on 30 June 2025. No late applications are accepted for these programmes.
The AS is calculated using six subjects (excluding Life Orientation). Include your Home Language, First Additional Language, and Mathematics (or Mathematical Literacy/Technical Mathematics), plus your best other subjects to total six subjects.
Most programmes at NMU do not require the NBT. However, a small number of qualifications do require it. Check your specific programme requirements.
International students must satisfy Matriculation Board requirements for a certificate of exemption. There is an application fee for international applicants.
Contact Information
Student Access & Enrolment
Phone: 041 – 504 1111
Alternative: 041 – 504 2945 / 041 – 504 2593
Financial Aid
Email: [email protected]