When applying to the University of Cape Town (UCT), it’s important to understand the application fee requirements to ensure your admission process goes smoothly. UCT charges an application fee for every application submitted, with specific exemptions and varying amounts depending on the applicant’s origin and program.
Application Fee Overview
- Undergraduate and postgraduate applicants from South Africa and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region: R100
- Applicants from outside the SADC region: R300
- Graduate School of Business (GSB) applicants from South Africa and other African countries: R2,070
- GSB applicants from outside Africa: USD 300
UCT students and graduates are exempt from paying the application fee unless they are applying to a Graduate School of Business program.
Payment Methods
The application fee can be paid via:
- Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)
- Direct deposit
- Credit card payments online
- Cash payments at the Cashiers Office on campus (Kramer Building, Middle Campus)
For EFT payments, applicants must use the correct bank details and include their applicant number as a reference to ensure the payment is allocated properly. For GSB applications, a different account and reference format apply.
Important Notes
- The application fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome of your application.
- Paying the fee does not guarantee admission to UCT.
- Application fees should be paid in South African Rands, except for GSB applications from outside the SADC region, which are paid in US dollars.
- Proof of payment is required to complete your application.
Application Timeline
Applications for the 2026 academic year open on 1 April 2025 and close on 31 October 2025. It’s essential to pay the application fee within this period to avoid delays or rejection of your application.
Additional Information
- Accepted applicants to the Graduate School of Business are required to pay a non-refundable acceptance deposit, which varies depending on the program and applicant status (South African/African or international).
- For undergraduate and postgraduate programs, applicants must submit all required documents along with their application and proof of payment before the deadline.
Contact Details for Queries
- Admissions Office Email: admissions@uct.ac.za
- Phone: +27 (0)21 650 2128
- Postal Address: University of Cape Town, Private Bag X3, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
Understanding these application fee details will help you navigate the UCT application process with confidence and ensure your application is processed without unnecessary delays. Always refer to the official UCT website for the latest updates and detailed instructions.