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WSU 2026 University Applications: Dates, Requirements and How to Apply

By ZANANI · Jan 27, 2025
WSU 2026 University Applications: Dates, Requirements and How to Apply picture

Walter Sisulu University (WSU) is opening applications for 2026, and this blog is here to guide you through the application process. We’ll cover important dates, what you need to qualify, application fees, admission requirements, and how to complete your application step by step. You’ll also discover WSU’s exciting courses, and support services to help students succeed. 

 

Thinking about joining Walter Sisulu University (WSU) for the 2026 academic year? Here’s what you need to know:

  • WSU is a university that offers a wide variety of courses and courses to help students prepare for successful careers. It was created in 2005 after merging three institutions and is located in the Eastern Cape. WSU is dedicated to making higher education accessible, especially for students in rural and urban areas.
  • The university offers everything from certificates to diplomas, degrees, and even postgraduate courses. Whether you’re interested in engineering, health sciences, business, education, or law, WSU provides the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.
  • WSU also focuses on helping students develop their entrepreneurship skills, preparing them to be leaders in their communities and beyond.
  • With four campuses across the Eastern Cape—Mthatha, Butterworth, Buffalo City, and Komani—you’ll have the chance to study in different areas of this beautiful province. The university has about 30,000 students and offers a supportive and engaging environment to help you grow.

 

Key Dates and Deadlines for the WSU 2026 Applications

Mark your calendars! Timing is everything when it comes to a successful WSU 2026 application. Here are the key dates to remember:

Applications Open: June 1, 2025.

Deadlines:

  • International Students: September 30, 2025.
  • South African Students: October 31, 2025.
  • Late Applications: November 2025.

Postgraduate Courses: Applications for Master’s and PhD courses close in February 2026.

Tip: Set a reminder at least a week before your deadline to avoid last-minute issues. Technical problems or missing documents can derail your application—be prepared!

 

WSU 2026 Admission Requirements

WSU believes in making education accessible, but meeting the minimum requirements is essential. Here’s what you need to know:

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

  • NSC/NCV Qualification: A National Senior Certificate (NSC) or National Certificate (Vocational) with subject ratings that align with your chosen course.
  • Language Proficiency: At least 30% in the language of instruction (English or isiXhosa).

Course-Specific Requirements:

  • Higher Certificates: NSC with 30% in the language of instruction.
  • Diplomas: NSC with 40–49% in four subjects (excluding Life Orientation).
  • Bachelor’s Degrees: NSC with 50–59% in four subjects.

Postgraduate Admission Requirements

  • Honours Degrees: A relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification. Specific courses may have additional requirements.
  • Master’s Degrees: A relevant honours degree or a postgraduate diploma in the applicable field of study. Research proposals may be required for certain courses.
  • Doctoral Degrees: A master’s degree in a related discipline and an approved research proposal.

International Admission Requirements

  • SAQA Evaluation: International qualifications must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
  • HESA Compliance: Admission is subject to Higher Education South Africa (HESA) guidelines.
  • Language Proficiency: Proof of English language proficiency if the applicant’s previous studies were not conducted in English.
  • Study Permits: A valid study permit is mandatory for all international students.

Special Cases

  • Mature Applicants (23+): Applicants may qualify through Rule 1.13 with a Mature Age Endorsement. Check the General Prospectus for details.
  • Bridging Courses: WSU offers bridging courses for students who just miss the entry requirements. These courses are designed to help you achieve your academic goals.

For a full list of courses available under each faculty, along with their detailed admission requirements, please refer to the University Prospectus, which you can download here.

 

Find Available Courses at WSU for 2026 applications Here

 

WSU 2026 Required Documents Checklist

Make sure all required documents are submitted to avoid delays in processing your application.

Compulsory Documents for All Applicants:

  1. Certified copy of your Identity Document or Passport.
  2. Certified copy of your National Senior Certificate (NSC), NCV, Senior Certificate, or equivalent (e.g., N3).
  3. Grade 12 Students:
    • Certified copy of your Grade 11 Term Four results.
    • Certified copy of your Grade 12 Term Two and/or Term Three results.
  4. Transfer Students:
    • Certified copy of your Academic Transcript.
    • Certificate of Conduct (must indicate no disciplinary issues).
  5. International Applicants:
    • SAQA certificate and proof of study visa (ensure visa is applied for early).
  6. Postgraduate Applicants:
    • Certified copy of your relevant preceding degree certificate and academic transcript (e.g., Bachelor’s for Honours, Honours degree for Master’s, Master’s degree for Doctoral studies).
  7. If applicable:
    • Marriage Certificate or Decree of Divorce (for name changes).
    • Proof of registration with relevant professional bodies (e.g., Nursing Council).
    • If previously enrolled in a higher education institution, provide Academic Record and Certificate of Good Conduct.

Important Notes:

  • Format Requirements: Scan documents in black-and-white and ensure each file is under 2MB in size.
  • Conditional Exemption Applicants must submit the relevant forms in person with all required documentation.

 

How to Apply at Walter Sisulu University (WSU) for 2026

If you're looking to apply to Walter Sisulu University (WSU) for 2026, follow the steps below to ensure your application is submitted correctly and on time:

Note: WSU Applications are done entirely online

1. Visit the WSU Application Portal

Start by visiting the official WSU application website https://applications.wsu.ac.za/.

2. Create an Account

To begin your application, you will need to create an account. This requires you to provide a valid email address. Your email will serve as your main point of communication throughout the application process, so ensure it is correct and up-to-date.

3. Verify Your Email Address

Once you’ve registered your account, a verification code will be sent to the email address you provided. Check your inbox (and the spam folder, just in case) for this code. Enter the code into the application portal to verify your email address. This step is crucial for activating your account.

4. Log In and Begin Your Application

After successfully verifying your email, log in to your WSU application account. This will give you access to the application form and other necessary documents to complete your application.

5. Capture Your Biographical Information

The next step is to provide your biographical information. This includes personal details such as your full name, date of birth, gender, and contact information. Double-check this information for accuracy, as it will be used for all further correspondence and records.

6. Input Your Results and Add Subjects

Next, you’ll need to capture your academic results. Depending on your current educational status, you will either enter your Grade 12 marks (for matriculants), your National Senior Certificate (NSC) results, or any previous qualifications you have completed. You will also be asked to add subjects that you’ve completed during your schooling years, ensuring you list them accurately and as they appear on your certificate.

7. Provide Details of Educational Institutions Attended

You’ll also need to provide the names and details of all educational institutions you have attended. This is an important part of your application as it helps WSU verify your qualifications and academic background.

8. Select Your Courses of Study

As part of your application, you’ll be asked to choose two courses that you wish to apply for at WSU. Make sure to research and carefully select your courses. It’s important to choose courses that align with your interests and career goals. If you are unsure, it might be helpful to discuss your options with a guidance counselor or academic advisor.

9. Upload the Required Documents

Once you've completed all the necessary sections of the application, you will be asked to upload the required documents.

10. Review and Submit Your Application

Before finalizing your application, take a moment to review all the details you’ve entered. Ensure that everything is correct and complete. After reviewing, submit your application.

You will receive an acknowledgment email confirming that your application has been successfully submitted. Keep this email for reference.

11. Track Your Application Status

After submitting your application, you can track the progress of your application through the WSU application portal. This will allow you to see any updates or requests for additional information or documentation.

Important Notes:

  • Apply as early as possible to avoid missing deadlines.
  • Keep a copy of all documents you upload in case you need them later.
  • Be sure to adhere to all guidelines and provide accurate information to prevent delays.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your application to Walter Sisulu University for 2026 is completed smoothly.

 

How to Calculate Your WSU APS Score:

What is an APS Score?

The Admission Point Score (APS) is used by Walter Sisulu University (WSU) to determine whether a student is eligible for admission to a specific course. It is based on your National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Senior Certificate (Old Matric) marks.

Your APS is calculated by converting the percentage marks in your best six subjects (or seven subjects if applying for a course in the Faculty of Education) into points. These points are then summed to give your total APS.

The WSU APS Conversion Table

WSU uses the following table to convert your percentage marks into APS points:

NSC/Old Matric %APS Score (NSC)APS Score (Old Matric)
90 - 10088
80 - 8977
70 - 7966
60 - 6955
50 - 5944
40 - 4933
30 - 3922
0 - 3011

 

Categories for APS Calculation

WSU uses three categories to calculate your total APS:

Category 1:

  • 2 Subjects: Your Home Language and First Additional Language.
  • Points for these subjects are included in the calculation.

Category 2:

  • 4 Subjects: The 4 subjects in which you scored the highest marks (excluding Life Orientation and the two language subjects from Category 1).
  • These subjects must meet any specific course requirements.

Category 3:

  • 1 Subject: Life Orientation (only if you are applying for a qualification in the Faculty of Education).
  • Life Orientation will be included in the APS calculation if it is part of your chosen qualification's requirements.

Example APS Calculations

Student 1 & 3 (Non-Education Courses):

Student 1:

  • Home Language (90% = 8 points)
  • First Additional Language (85% = 7 points)
  • Best 4 Subjects:
    • Subject 1 (75% = 6 points)
    • Subject 2 (80% = 7 points)
    • Subject 3 (65% = 5 points)
    • Subject 4 (70% = 6 points)

Student 3:

  • Home Language (92% = 8 points)
  • First Additional Language (88% = 7 points)
  • Best 4 Subjects:
    • Subject 1 (80% = 7 points)
    • Subject 2 (75% = 6 points)
    • Subject 3 (78% = 6 points)
    • Subject 4 (85% = 7 points)

Student 2 (Education Courses):

Student 2:

  • Home Language (80% = 7 points)
  • First Additional Language (85% = 7 points)
  • Best 4 Subjects:
    • Subject 1 (72% = 6 points)
    • Subject 2 (78% = 6 points)
    • Subject 3 (65% = 5 points)
    • Subject 4 (83% = 7 points)
  • Life Orientation (85% = 7 points)

Important Tips

  • Only the best 6 subjects are considered for most courses (7 if applying for Education).
  • Life Orientation is only included if you are applying for an Education qualification.
  • Make sure to use the highest marks from the 4 best subjects, excluding Life Orientation, unless your qualification specifically includes it in the calculation.

For detailed course-specific requirements, please refer to WSU's prospectus, available for download here.

 

 

Tips for a Successful WSU 2026 Application

Maximize your chances of success with these expert tips:

1. Apply Early

High-demand courses such as Medicine and Engineering fill up quickly. Submit your application well in advance to avoid missing out on your preferred course.

2. Triple-Check Your Documents

Ensure all your documents are certified and correctly formatted. Submitting uncertified copies could result in your application being rejected immediately.

3. Track Your Application Status

Stay on top of your application progress by logging into the portal weekly for any updates or requests for additional information.

4. Don’t Hesitate to Reach Out

If you encounter any issues or have questions, don’t hesitate to contact the admissions team at [email protected]. They typically respond within 48 hours, offering timely assistance.

5. Golden Rule: Submit a Complete Application

Never assume that missing information can be added later. Submit a fully completed application with all required documents to avoid delays or disqualification.

 

FAQs for WSU 2026 Applications

Q: Is there an application fee?

A: No! WSU’s online applications are completely free—there are no hidden costs, so you can apply without worrying about additional fees.

Q: Can I apply without final Grade 12 results?

A: Yes, you can! Initially, submit your Grade 11 results and your mid-year Grade 12 marks. Once your final Grade 12 results are available, you can update them in January 2026.

Q: How do I know if I’ve been accepted?

A: You can track your application status through your portal. Additionally, SMS or email notifications will be sent by December 2025 (for undergraduate applicants), confirming whether you have been accepted.

Q: Can I apply for more than one course?

A: Yes, you can select two course choices when you apply. Make sure to research both courses and select those that align with your interests and future goals.

Q: How do I update my application if I make a mistake or need to change something?

A: If you need to make changes to your application, log into your portal and update your details. If you encounter any issues, reach out to the admissions team for assistance.

 

WSU Contact Details

If you have any questions or need more information about applying to Walter Sisulu University, feel free to get in touch!

Email Address:
[email protected]

Contact Numbers:

  • Mthatha: 047 502 2100
  • Butterworth: 047 401 6000
  • East London: 043 702 9200
  • Potsdam: 043 708 5200
  • Chiselhurst: 043 709 4000

Friendly staff are ready to assist you with all your queries!

 

Walter Sisulu University isn’t just a place to study—it’s a community that challenges you to grow, innovate, and lead. As Vice-Chancellor Professor Rushiella Songca says, “At WSU, we don’t just build careers; we build legacies.”

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