The University of Pretoria (UP), one of South Africa’s most prestigious institutions, offers an extensive array of postgraduate programs. These programs are designed to meet the diverse academic and professional needs of students locally and globally. For the academic year, prospective applicants will find this guide helpful as it details the application process, program offerings, key requirements, and crucial deadlines to facilitate a smooth application journey.
Application Process
Applying to the University of Pretoria is a straightforward process, with applications handled through an efficient online platform. Here are the steps:
- Visit the Online Application Portal: Applications are submitted through UP’s official online application system, accessible via the UP website. Ensure that you have a reliable internet connection and the necessary documents ready before starting.
- Register and Complete the Application Form: Create an account and fill in the online application form with accurate personal, academic, and program-specific information. This will also involve obtaining a temporary T-number, which will later be replaced by a formal student number upon submission of your application.
- Upload Supporting Documents: These include:
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and qualifications.
- A valid passport (for international students).
- Proof of English language proficiency (if required).
- A professional CV and research proposal for some programs.
- Pay the Application Fee: A non-refundable fee is required to complete the application. Payment methods and amounts can be found on the university’s fee portal.
- Track Your Application: Once submitted, applicants can monitor their application progress via the UP Student Portal. It typically takes about 10 working days for a student number to be issued.
Admission Requirements
General Requirements
To be considered for postgraduate study, applicants need:
- A completed undergraduate degree (or equivalent qualification) relevant to the program applied for.
- An honors degree for most master’s programs.
- Proficiency in English demonstrated through a TOEFL or IELTS score for non-native speakers.
Specific Programme Requirements
Each faculty or department may impose additional criteria, including:
- Master’s Programmes: A bachelor’s honor degree with specific subject prerequisites or a detailed research proposal.
- Doctoral Programmes: A relevant master’s degree and a comprehensive research outline. Certain fields may also require a portfolio of work or professional experience.
Applicants are encouraged to consult the postgraduate prospectus or contact their respective faculties for precise details about entry requirements.
Programmes Offered
The University of Pretoria boasts a broad range of postgraduate courses across nine faculties. Below are some highlights:
Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
Programs in economics, management, public administration, and accounting. Flagship offerings include MBAs and advanced research degrees.
Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology (EBIT)
Degrees in fields such as civil engineering, architecture, and computer science, catering to cutting-edge technological and infrastructural advancements.
Faculty of Humanities
Programs in philosophy, social sciences, psychology, and languages, with a strong focus on research and interdisciplinary studies.
Faculty of Law
Renowned for its LLM and research-focused degrees, this faculty also offers opportunities in human rights and international law.
Faculty of Health Sciences
Advanced studies in medical sciences, dentistry, and public health, supported by modern facilities and extensive clinical exposure.
Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
Home to degrees in agricultural management, environmental sciences, and genetics, this faculty addresses global sustainability challenges.
Key Dates and Deadlines
The timeline for postgraduate applications varies by program and faculty. Below are the general deadlines:
- Application Period: Opens 1 April.
- Priority Deadlines:
- Faculty of Veterinary Science: Closes 31 May.
- Most other faculties: Closes 30 June.
Late applications may be considered for certain programs, but early submission is strongly encouraged due to limited capacity.
Additional Consideration
- Accommodation: UP provides on-campus housing, but demand exceeds supply. Applications for residences open on 1 April and placements are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Off-campus accommodation is also widely available near the university.
- Financial Aid: Postgraduate funding is available through scholarships, bursaries, and external organizations. Key options include:
- UP Bursaries and Loans: Applications via the Student Portal.
- National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS): For South African citizens.
- External Funding: Organisations like Fundi cover tuition and living expenses.
Visit the UP Financial Aid Office for detailed information on funding opportunities.
International Students
Dedicated support is available for visa applications, language proficiency, and cultural adaptation. Non-South African applicants must ensure compliance with all immigration requirements before enrolment.
Why Choose UP for Postgraduate Study?
As a leading institution, the University of Pretoria combines academic excellence with innovative research opportunities. With state-of-the-art facilities, a vibrant campus culture, and a commitment to global challenges, UP is a gateway to advanced knowledge and professional success.
Begin your postgraduate journey at UP by exploring its official website and taking the first steps toward academic and personal growth.