The University of Pretoria (UP) is one of South Africa’s leading universities, renowned for its diverse academic offerings and vibrant campus life. For prospective students aiming to join UP in 2026, the university’s undergraduate prospectus is an essential resource that provides detailed information about available programs, admission requirements, application procedures, and student support services.
What’s Inside the UP Prospectus?
The 2026 UP undergraduate prospectus comprehensively outlines all degree programs offered across its faculties, including:
- Economic and Management Sciences
- Education
- Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology
- Health Sciences
- Humanities
- Law
- Theology and Religion
- Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Veterinary Science
Each faculty section details the specific programs available, course content, duration, and career prospects, helping applicants make informed choices aligned with their interests and goals.
Admission Requirements: What You Need to Know
Admission to UP is based on academic merit, primarily assessed through the National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Independent Examinations Board (IEB) qualifications. Key points include:
- Bachelor’s Degree Admission: Applicants must have an NSC/IEB certificate with a bachelor’s degree endorsement or an equivalent qualification recognized by UP.
- Admission Point Score (APS): UP calculates APS using the NSC 1 to 7 achievement scale across six recognized 20-credit subjects, excluding Life Orientation. The maximum APS is 42. Each program has a minimum APS requirement and specific subject prerequisites.
- Conditional Admission: Grade 11 results may be used for conditional admission, but final acceptance depends on NSC/IEB results.
- Language of Instruction: English is the primary language of instruction for most programs, so proficiency is essential.
- International Applicants: Those with foreign qualifications must consult UP’s International Undergraduate Prospectus and may require a Foreign Conditional Exemption Certificate.
- Non-accepted Qualifications: UP does not accept certain qualifications such as School of Tomorrow (SOT), Accelerated Christian Education (ACE), and GED graduates from 2020 onwards.
How to Apply
- Online Application: Applications open on 1 April 2025 and close on 31 July 2025. Prospective students must apply online via UP’s official application portal.
- Program Selection: Applicants can choose up to two qualifications, ranked by preference.
- Supporting Documents: Certified copies of academic transcripts, identification documents, and other relevant certificates must be uploaded.
- Residence Placement: There is a section in the online application for students interested in on-campus accommodation.
Why Use the UP Prospectus?
The prospectus is more than just a course catalog; it serves as a roadmap to your academic future by:
- Detailing program structures and career pathways
- Providing clear admission criteria and APS calculations
- Guiding you through application procedures and deadlines
- Offering information on tuition fees, scholarships, and student support
Additional Resources
UP offers faculty-specific brochures that provide in-depth details on courses and admission requirements. These are available on the university’s website and complement the main prospectus.
The University of Pretoria’s 2026 prospectus is an indispensable tool for prospective students. By carefully reviewing the programs, admission criteria, and application steps, you can confidently prepare your application and take the first step toward becoming a proud UP student.
For the latest and most accurate information, always consult the official UP prospectus and website. Staying informed will help you navigate the competitive admission process and set you on a path to academic success.