Dlamini BlessingFor generations, the University of the Witwatersrand has stood as a beacon of academic excellence, not just in Johannesburg, but across the African continent. Whether you dream of donning a white coat in the health sciences, shaping skylines as an engineer, or diving into the complexities of human thought through the humanities, Wits represents a launchpad for ambitious minds. But navigating the admissions landscape for a top-tier university can feel like a challenge in itself. With application deadlines, subject requirements, and new courses emerging, knowing where to start is half the battle.
This guide cuts through the complexity, bringing together everything you need to know about studying at Wits in 2026. From the most competitive health science programmes with their specific National Benchmark Test (NBT) requirements to the exciting new postgraduate degrees in cybersecurity, and from faculty-by-faculty course listings to essential application dates and fees, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a final-year matriculant or a professional seeking further study, this is your roadmap to joining the Wits community.
Wits University Courses and Requirements (2026)
Overview: A Legacy of Excellence
The University of the Witwatersrand, commonly known as Wits, is a premier public research university located in the heart of Johannesburg . Founded in 1896, it is one of South Africa’s oldest and most prestigious institutions, consistently ranked among the top universities in Africa and the Southern Hemisphere . Wits is renowned for its commitment to academic and research excellence, social justice, and addressing the critical challenges facing South Africa and the continent .
The university offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across seven faculties, including Health Sciences, Engineering and the Built Environment, Humanities, Science, and Commerce, Law, and Management . For the 2026 academic year, Wits has also introduced innovative new programmes, such as postgraduate degrees in cybersecurity, reflecting its dedication to remaining at the forefront of global educational trends .
2026 Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Applying to Wits is an online process. Here is what you need to know for the 2026 intake:
Key Information:
Number of Choices: You may apply for a maximum of three programmes. The order of your choices does not matter .
Personal Details: It is crucial to apply using your full names exactly as they appear on your ID document or passport. Do not use initials or nicknames .
Strategic Applications: If you apply for two programmes within one faculty, it is advisable to apply for a third programme in a less restricted faculty (like Humanities, Commerce, or Science) to keep your study options open . This is especially important for highly competitive faculties such as Health Sciences or Engineering .
POPI Act Compliance: In accordance with the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) Act, applicants are required to complete their own applications. The university will not engage with third-party agents facilitating applications on behalf of applicants .
Application Fees and Supporting Documents
Application Fee (Non-Refundable) :
South African Citizens: R100
International Citizens: R700
Payment: Fees can be paid via the self-service portal. Use your person/student number as the reference .
Supporting Documents :
All supporting documents should be uploaded at the time of application or via the student self-service portal after submission.
Current Matrics (Grade 12): Upload your final Grade 11 results.
Already Matriculated: Upload certified copies of all your matric certificates or foreign school-leaving certificates.
Other Tertiary Institutions: Upload certified copies of official academic records from *all* tertiary institutions you have registered at, even if you did not complete the qualification. This must include a statement of good conduct, stamped by the institution’s registrar.
2026 Application Closing Dates
Deadlines vary by faculty, so it is vital to take note of the following dates :
| Application Deadline | Programmes |
|---|---|
| 30 June 2026 | • Faculty of Health Sciences (all programmes) <br> • Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS) <br> • Bachelor of Audiology <br> • Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology <br> • BA Film and Television |
| 30 September 2026 | • All other University programmes <br> • Residence applications |
Apply online via the official Wits applications portal:
Faculty of Health Sciences Courses and Requirements
The Faculty of Health Sciences is one of the most competitive at Wits. Admission is not based solely on academic results. A Composite Index (CI) is calculated, with 60% from your academic results (five subjects: English, Mathematics, Physical Sciences or Life Sciences, and the best two other subjects) and 40% from your National Benchmark Test (NBT) scores. All applicants (with some exceptions for graduate-entry programmes) must write the NBT by 18 August to be considered .
| Course | Duration | Minimum Subject Requirements (NSC) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc) | 3 years | • English HL or FAL: Level 5 (60%+) <br> • Mathematics: Level 5 (60%+) <br> • Life Sciences and/or Physical Sciences: Level 5 (60%+) | Specialisations include Biomedical Sciences, Biokinetics, and Health Systems Sciences |
| Bachelor of Clinical Medical Practice (BCMP) | 3 years | • English HL or FAL: Level 4 (50%+) <br> • Mathematics: Level 4 (50%+) <br> • OR Mathematical Literacy: Level 7 (80%+) <br> • Life Sciences and/or Physical Sciences: Level 4 (50%+) | Qualifies graduates as Clinical Associates |
| Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBCh) | 6 years | • English HL or FAL: Level 5 (60%+) <br> • Mathematics: Level 5 (60%+) <br> • Life Sciences: Level 5 (60%+) <br> • Physical Sciences: Level 5 (60%+) | Highly competitive programme; applicants may also be required to undergo Wits Additional Placement Test (WAPT) or Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs) |
| Bachelor of Dental Science (BDS) | Information Pending | Information Pending | Both Physical Sciences and Life Sciences are required |
| Bachelor of Nursing (BNurs) | 4 years | Consult university website for specific requirements | Prepares students to become professional nurses |
| Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) | 4 years | Consult university website for specific requirements | Focuses on the science and practice of medicines |
| Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy (BSc Physio) | Information Pending | Consult university website for specific requirements | – |
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment Courses
| Course | Duration | Requirements / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Science (Engineering) – BSc Eng | Information Pending | Check university website |
| Bachelor of Engineering Science in Digital Arts – BEngSC (Digital Arts) | Information Pending | Check university website |
| Bachelor of Engineering Science in Biomedical Engineering – BEngSC (BME) | Information Pending | Check university website |
| Bachelor of Architectural Studies – BAS | Information Pending | Check university website |
| Bachelor of Science in Urban and Regional Planning – BSc (URP) | Information Pending | Check university website |
| Bachelor of Science in Construction Studies – BSc (CS) | Information Pending | Check university website |
| Bachelor of Science in Property Studies – BSc (PS) | Information Pending | Check university website |
Faculty of Humanities Courses
The Faculty of Humanities offers a wide range of programmes, from general degrees to professional qualifications .
| Course | Duration | Requirements / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) | 3 years | General degree with two major subjects. |
| BA in Digital Arts | 4 years | – |
| BA in Dramatic Art | 4 years | – |
| Bachelor of Education (BEd) | 4 years | – |
| BA in Film and Television | 4 years | Application Deadline: 30 June |
| BA in Fine Arts | 4 years | – |
| Bachelor of Music (BMus) | 4 years | – |
| BA in Performing and Visual Arts | 4 years | – |
| BA in Social Work | 4 years | – |
| Bachelor of Audiology | Information Pending | Application Deadline: 30 June |
| Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology | Information Pending | Application Deadline: 30 June |
Faculty of Science Courses
Many fields of study are offered within the Bachelor of Science (BSc) Programme . Broad areas include:
– Actuarial Science
– Applied Mathematics
– Chemistry
– Computer Science
– Geography
– Geology
– Mathematics
– Physics
– Statistics
– And many more.
New for 2026: Postgraduate Degrees in Cybersecurity
Wits is launching two new, fully accredited postgraduate degrees in cybersecurity for the 2026 academic year, aimed at developing highly skilled professionals to protect Africa’s digital future .
| Course | Closing Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Science Honours (BScHons) in Cybersecurity | 31 December 2025 | Combines rigorous academic training with real-world applications in partnership with global organisations such as CISPA and MWR CyberSec. |
| Master of Science (MSc) in Cybersecurity | 31 December 2025 | Focuses on advanced principles, AI for digital security, ethical aspects, and applied research. |
Wits Online Courses for 2026
For those who require flexibility, Wits also offers a range of online learning options for the 2026 academic year . These are ideal for working professionals.
Fully Online Academic Programmes: Accredited postgraduate diplomas and master’s degrees in fields such as hospitality leadership, engineering management, and human resource management. These programmes offer flexible schedules and module-based payment .
Short Courses: Focused on practical, job-ready skills in areas like project management, digital marketing, data literacy, and cybersecurity risk . Most lead to a Wits University Certificate of Competence.
Free MOOCs: In partnership with edX, Wits offers Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) on topics like media freedom and project management, which are free to audit .
Summary of Key 2026 Dates
| Event | Deadline Date |
|---|---|
| Health Sciences & Selected Programmes | 30 June 2026 |
| All Other Programmes | 30 September 2026 |
| Residence Applications | 30 September 2026 |
| Postgraduate Cybersecurity (Hons/MSc) | 31 December 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Wits Applications
When do applications for Wits 2026 close?
The deadline depends on your chosen programme. For Health Sciences, Architectural Studies, Audiology, Speech-Language Pathology, and BA Film and TV, the deadline is 30 June 2026. For all other programmes, the deadline is 30 September 2026.
What is the application fee for Wits?
The non-refundable application fee is R100 for South African citizens and R700 for international citizens.
Do I need to write the NBT for Wits?
For most programmes in the Faculty of Health Sciences, yes. The NBT score contributes 40% to your Composite Index for selection . It is best to check the requirements for your specific programme on the Wits website.
How many programmes can I apply for at Wits?
You can apply for a maximum of three programmes. The order in which you list them does not affect your chances .
What are the new courses at Wits for 2026?
Wits is launching two new postgraduate degrees: a BSc Honours in Cybersecurity and an MSc in Cybersecurity. Applications for these closed on 31 December 2025 .
How do I apply to Wits?
All applications are submitted online. Go to [www.wits.ac.za/applications](www.wits.ac.za/applications) to start your application .
Can I apply if I’m currently in Grade 12?
Yes, current matriculants can and should apply using their final Grade 11 results .
Where can I find more information about Health Sciences requirements?
For the most current and detailed admission criteria, always consult the official Wits Faculty of Health Sciences website at [www.wits.ac.za/health/](www.wits.ac.za/health/) .
—
With this comprehensive guide, you are now equipped to navigate the Wits University application process for 2026. From understanding the competitive requirements of the health sciences to exploring new programmes in cybersecurity and flexible online courses, the path to joining one of Africa’s leading universities is clearer. Remember to verify all dates on the official Wits website and submit your application well before the deadline. Your future at Wits starts now.