The University of Mpumalanga (UMP), situated in the heart of South Africa’s Mpumalanga province, is a young and dynamic institution committed to providing quality higher education tailored to the needs of its diverse student body. If you are considering applying to UMP, understanding the admission requirements and application process is crucial to ensure your application is complete and competitive.
General Admission Overview
UMP admits students based on academic merit, primarily using the National Senior Certificate (NSC) results and an Admission Point Score (APS) system. The APS is calculated from seven subjects, including compulsory ones like English and Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, with Life Orientation weighted at half its value.
Minimum Entry Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree Admission: Applicants need a National Senior Certificate with full university exemption and a minimum APS of 28 or higher. English proficiency at Level 4 is mandatory, alongside Mathematics at Level 2 or Mathematical Literacy at Level 4, depending on the program.
- Diploma and Higher Certificate Programs: These have slightly lower APS thresholds but still require a valid NSC pass with specific subject requirements.
- Subject-Specific Requirements: For example, the Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching requires:
- Language of Teaching and Learning at Level 5
- Another recognized language at Level 4
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy at Level 4
How APS is Calculated at UMP
UMP calculates the APS by considering the best seven subjects from your NSC results. Life Orientation counts as half a subject. If you have more than three electives, the four compulsory subjects plus the best three electives are used to calculate your APS.
| APS Scale | Percentage Range | Points Awarded |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 80-100% | 7 |
| 6 | 70-79% | 6 |
| 5 | 60-69% | 5 |
| 4 | 50-59% | 4 |
| 3 | 40-49% | 3 |
| 2 | 30-39% | 2 |
| 1 | 0-29% | 1 |
Application Process
- Online Application: UMP applications for the 2026 academic year open on 1 June 2025 and close on 30 November 2025. Applications must be submitted online via the official UMP portal.
- Required Documents: Applicants need to upload certified copies of their ID, NSC results, and any other relevant certificates.
- Program Choices: You can apply for two programs in one application to increase your chances of acceptance.
- Application Fee: South African applicants pay R150, applicants from other African countries pay R350, and international applicants pay R500.
Faculties and Programs
UMP offers a range of programs across several faculties, including:
- Faculty of Education: Specializing in Foundation Phase Teaching with a focus on African languages like Siswati, Sesotho, and Ndebele.
- Faculty of Agricultural and Natural Sciences: Including Agricultural Sciences, Biology, and Environmental Sciences.
- Faculty of Economics, Development and Business Sciences: Offering courses in Development Studies, Hospitality and Tourism Management, and Social Sciences.
Career Opportunities
Graduates from UMP’s programs are well-prepared for careers in education, agriculture, business, and social development sectors. For example, Education graduates can pursue roles as Early Childhood Development lecturers or specialists in African language instruction.
Admission to the University of Mpumalanga requires meeting specific academic standards, including a valid NSC with appropriate APS and subject levels. By carefully preparing your application, meeting deadlines, and understanding the program-specific requirements, you can position yourself for success at this vibrant and growing university.
For the most accurate and updated information, always consult the official UMP website and prospectus. This will help you navigate the application process smoothly and embark on your academic journey with confidence