University of the Western Cape UWC Admission Requirements
University Admission Guidelines
Outlined below are the general standards for admissions into various academic programs at the university:
For Bachelor’s Degree Programs:
Applicants must present a National Senior Certificate (NSC), validated by Umalusi, with a minimum achievement level of 4 (equivalent to 50-59% or Adequate Achievement) in at least four subjects. These subjects should be selected from the prescribed list of 20-credit NSC subjects which includes, but is not limited to, Accounting, Agricultural Sciences, Business Studies, Dramatic Arts, Economics, Engineering Graphics and Design, Geography, History, Consumer Studies, Information Technology, various Languages (one language of learning and teaching at a tertiary level and two other recognized language subjects), Life Sciences, Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, Music, Physical Sciences, Religion Studies, and Visual Arts.
For Diploma Programs:
A National Senior Certificate with a Umalusi certification is required, with at least a level 3 performance (Moderate Achievement, 40-49%) in four recognized NSC 20-credit subjects.
For Higher Certificate Programs:
The base requirement is a National Senior Certificate accredited by Umalusi.
Utilization of the Points System:
The University will employ a points calculation system to assess eligibility for degree and diploma programs, as detailed below:
| NSC Level | Percentage | Points for English | Points for Maths/Maths Lit | Points for Life Orientation | Points for Other Subjects |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 90-100% | 15 | 15 | 3 | 8 |
| 7 | 80-89% | 13 | 13 | 3 | 7 |
| 6 | 70-79% | 11 | 11 | 2 | 6 |
| 5 | 60-69% | 9 | 9 | 2 | 5 |
| 4 | 50-59% | 7 | 7 | 2 | 4 |
| 3 | 40-49% | 5 | 5 | 1 | 3 |
| 2 | 30-39% | 3 | 3 | 1 | 2 |
| 1 | 20-29% | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 0 | Below 20% | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
*Note: “English” refers to either English Home Language or English First Additional Language, not a Second Additional Language, which is considered among ‘other subjects’.
Online Application Process
To initiate your journey with us, begin by applying online through the provided link Apply Online Now.
- You are permitted to select up to TWO distinct programs.
- When choosing programs, particularly in the fields of Dentistry, Community and Health Sciences, and Law, consider keeping your choices broad.
- Delightfully, there is no fee required to apply.
- Mark your calendar: the general application deadline is 30 September.
- Keen on Dentistry or Oral Health, or aiming for a postgraduate degree in the School of Government? Apply by 31 August.
- Aspiring to specialize in Sport Recreation, Biokinetics, or a related field? The deadline for these programs is 31 July.
Step 2: Application Acknowledgment
- Upon completing your application, you will receive a confirmation email from us.
- This correspondence will include your unique APPLICANT NUMBER, vital for future interactions with the university.
- A detailed brochure accompanying the email will guide you through the necessary SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS required by the closing date to finalize your application.
Step 3: Submitting Documentation
- To submit additional required documents, please visit Document Submission Portal, fill out the necessary information, and upload the documents.
- If you’re currently in Matric, there’s no need for additional documentation at this stage.
- If you’ve already completed Matric, please upload your certificate or equivalent if you studied abroad.
- If you’re transferring from another tertiary institution, we need a certified copy of your academic transcript and a certificate of conduct, endorsed by the institution’s registrar.
Step 4: Offer of Admission
- Should your application be successful, we’ll send an offer via email, complete with details on registration and orientation for 2024.
- Upon receipt of a FIRM offer, you’ll need to formally ACCEPT it within the given timeframe to secure your spot.
- Missing the deadline means your offer may lapse, but you can contact the UWC Contact Centre to inquire if your offer can still be revived and accepted.
- Once you’ve accepted, we’ll send you all the information you need about the next steps for registration and orientation.
Have you reconsidered your program choice?
- There’s no need to apply anew.
- Reach out to the Contact Centre to discuss the possibility of altering your program selection.
- Any changes in your contact details? Keep us informed by updating your information through the UWC Contact Centre.
