2027 Intake · Applications Open Now
Apply to Nelson Mandela University before the tide turns.
NMU sits on the shores of Algoa Bay in Gqeberha — one of South Africa's leading universities for Health Sciences, Engineering, Law, Business and the Arts. Spaces fill early. Here's exactly what you need to apply, when, and how.
Application snapshot
- Applications openApril 2025
- Health sciences close30 June 2027
- Early deadline1 Aug 2027
- Final deadline30 Sep 2027
- Accommodation closes30 Sep 2027
About the university
A Bay-city university built for ambition
Nelson Mandela University is a public university across seven campuses in the Eastern Cape, best known for its coastal Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) campuses. NMU is recognised nationally for academic excellence, research output, and a strong record of graduate employability across science, engineering, health and the humanities.
Whether you're applying straight out of matric or returning to study as a mature applicant, NMU's admissions team evaluates every application on National Senior Certificate results, subject requirements, and — for select programmes — an additional placement test or portfolio.
Before you apply
3 things every applicant forgets
1. Check your spam folder — NMU communicates admission outcomes almost entirely by email and SMS.
2. Keep the same phone number and email address throughout the entire application period.
3. Don't select a programme you don't yet meet the APS or subject requirements for — rather apply for your closest eligible alternative and enquire about upgrade paths later.
Plan around these
2027 key application dates
NMU Closing dates move with each intake — treat these as your tide chart and apply well ahead of the final deadline.
NMU Applications open
The NMU online portal opens for the 2027 academic year intake.
Health sciences close
Final date for MBChB, BPharm and BRad applications.
Early deadline
Recommended cut-off for most other undergraduate programmes.
Final deadline
Last date for remaining programmes, international applications, and student housing.
Two ways to apply
How to apply to NMU
Choose whichever route suits you — both are treated equally by the admissions office.
Online application
- Visit the official NMU application portal and register an account.
- Complete the application form with your personal and academic details.
- Upload certified copies of all supporting documents.
- Submit before your programme's relevant closing date and save your reference number.
Manual application
- Download the application form from the NMU website.
- Complete it in full and attach certified copies of required documents.
- Submit in person at an NMU campus, or post it to the Admissions Office.
- Keep a copy of everything you submit for your own records.
Checklist
Documents you'll need
- Certified copy of your ID or passport
- Grade 11 final results and latest available Grade 12 results
- National Senior Certificate, once issued
- Proof of payment (international applicants only)
- Surety declaration and guardian's ID copy, if you're a dependant
- Disability assessment form, if applicable
- Proof of address for student accommodation applications
Costs
Application fees
Planning to fund your studies through NSFAS or a private bursary? Apply for both funding and admission in parallel — don't wait on one before starting the other.
Where you could study
Nelson Mandela University Faculties at a glance
Faculty
Health Sciences
Medicine, pharmacy, radiography, nursing and allied health programmes with clinical placements across the Eastern Cape.
Faculty
Law
LLB and related legal studies with a strong focus on constitutional and human-rights law.
Faculty
Engineering & the Built Environment
Civil, mechanical, electrical, industrial and maritime engineering, plus built-environment disciplines.
Faculty
Business & Economic Sciences
Accounting, economics, management and entrepreneurship programmes geared toward the regional economy.
Faculty
Education
Foundation, intermediate and senior-phase teacher training routes.
Faculty
Art, Design & Architecture
Architecture, fine art, design and creative-industry programmes.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
When do NMU 2027 applications open and close?
Applications open in April 2025. Health-science programmes (MBChB, BPharm, BRad) close on 30 June 2027, most other programmes have an early deadline of 1 August 2027, and the final deadline for remaining programmes and student housing is 30 September 2027.
Is there an application fee?
No — South African applicants apply for free. International applicants pay a R500 non-refundable application fee.
What if I don't have my final matric results yet?
You can apply using your Grade 11 final results and latest available Grade 12 results, then submit your final National Senior Certificate once it's issued.
Can I still apply for student accommodation?
Yes, provided you apply before the 30 September 2027 housing deadline. Rooms are limited, so apply as early as possible after receiving your offer.
Do I have to apply online?
No — you can submit a manual application with certified documents in person or by post if you don't have reliable internet access.
Don't let the deadline catch you out.
Start your Nelson Mandela University application today and track it through to an offer.
Apply to NMU Now →