Universities & colleges

South Africa has 26 public universities, which include traditional universities, universities of technology, and comprehensive universities. Alongside these are many public TVET colleges and registered private colleges. AskSmarty covers public universities, UNISA, and private colleges across all nine provinces.

A traditional university focuses on degree programmes and academic research, while a university of technology emphasises career-focused diplomas and applied degrees. A TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) college offers practical, occupation-based qualifications such as NCV and NATED programmes, usually at a lower cost and with more flexible entry. Which one fits you depends on the qualification and career you are aiming for.

The Central Applications Office handles applications for KwaZulu-Natal institutions only: UKZN, DUT, MUT, UNIZULU, and several KZN private colleges. You pay one fee and can list up to six choices on a single CAO application. Universities outside KwaZulu-Natal do not use the CAO, so you apply to each of them directly.

Start with the programme and career you want, then check which institutions offer it and whether you meet the entry requirements and APS. Also weigh location, cost, accommodation, NSFAS or bursary funding, and application deadlines. Use AskSmarty to compare programmes and requirements across institutions before you decide.

In KwaZulu-Natal you apply through the CAO; everywhere else you apply directly on each university or college official site. Each institution profile on AskSmarty links you to the correct official application portal. We are an independent guide and never process or check applications for you.

Most charge an application fee, usually between about R100 and R500, but some universities charge no fee at all. In KwaZulu-Natal the CAO charges a single fee that covers up to six programme choices. Always confirm the current fee on the official source, and remember that NSFAS funding applications are always free.