Stellenbosch University’s academic year follows the calendar year.
Taught postgraduate programmes usually commence in February each year with a limited number of programmes commencing in July. Where a postgraduate programme consists of coursework it is important for candidates who have been admitted to arriving in time for the commencement of the programme. Classes usually commence in late January or early February (or late July). Late arrivals cannot be accommodated.
New registrations for masters (by research) and doctoral programmes must be finalized by the end of March or in some cases by the end of July each year.
PRE-APPLICATION
EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS
Acquaint yourself with the postgraduate programme offering at SU through our postgraduate offering.
CHECK MINIMUM ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Ensure that you meet the minimum admission requirements of your programme(s) of interest.
TAKE NOTE OF THE CLOSING DATES
Applications for the 2025 enrolment cycle open on 01 June 2025. Application for admission to postgraduate degree programmes for both South African and International candidates are subject to faculty specific closing dates.
POSTGRADUATE FUNDING
Bursaries: Bursary application closing dates are available here.
Funding opportunities available for South African citizens and international students.
No late and/or incomplete applications will be considered.
CONTACT A POTENTIAL SUPERVISOR
Contact the respective environment to identify a potential supervisor and discuss your research interest and/or proposal.
OFFICIAL SU APPLICATION REGISTRATION
APPLY ONLINE
In order to apply online, you will need a valid email address and cell/mobile phone number. Correspondence will be sent to the email address provided and messages to the cell/mobile phone.
UPLOAD ALL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
Your application will only be processed AFTER the application has been finalised AND all the correct supporting documents have been uploaded BEFORE the closing date.
It remains your responsibility to make sure that the University receives all your documents in time.
The University will acknowledge receipt of your application via email.
QUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS MUST BE OFFICIAL AND CERTIFIED
PAY THE APPLICATION FEE
Application fees can be paid as part of the online application process (only South African candidates pay an application fee).
Cash payments may also be made in person at the cashiers at the Administration A building (Stellenbosch Campus).
More on payment options.
ENSURE THAT YOUR APPLICATION IS COMPLETE BEFORE THE CLOSING DATE
APPLICATION DOCUMENTS REVIEWED BY THE CENTRAL APPLICATION OFFICE.
APPLICATION CONSIDERED BY RELEVANT DEPARTMENT
MONITOR THE STATUS OF YOUR APPLICATION
Log into the Applicant Portal to track your application status. Use your username (e-mail address) and password to log in.