Wits Admission Requirements – Complete Guide for 2026 Applicants
If you’re considering applying to the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) in Johannesburg, South Africa, you must first understand the Wits Admission Requirements. These requirements vary depending on whether you’re applying for undergraduate or postgraduate study and differ by faculty and programme. Below is a comprehensive guide based on the most up-to-date information from official sources.
What Are Wits Admission Requirements?
Wits Admission Requirements refer to the academic standards and criteria that applicants must meet to be considered for acceptance into Wits University programmes. These requirements are essential for planning your application and ensuring eligibility.
The University of the Witwatersrand is a leading public university in Johannesburg known for its research excellence and competitive admission standards. (Wikipedia)
Undergraduate Admission Requirements
Minimum Academic Criteria
To be considered for first-year undergraduate study, applicants must hold a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent qualification and meet minimum achievement levels in key subjects. (Wits University)
Key Requirements
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) qualified for a Bachelor’s degree pass from the Department of Basic Education (DBE), Independent Examinations Board (IEB), or South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute (SACAI). (Wits University)
- Faculty or programme-specific requirements may include minimum subject levels (e.g., Mathematics or Science). (Wits University)
- Meeting these requirements does not guarantee acceptance, as places are limited and selection considers academic results and other criteria. (Wits University)
Examples from Specific Programmes
Different courses have different entry requirements:
- Information Systems (B.Com.): Applicants typically need an APS 38+ with English and Mathematics at specified levels. (Wits University)
- Bachelor of Nursing: English, Mathematics, and Life/Physical Science must each be passed at a minimum level (e.g., Level 4). (Wits University)
- Medicine and Surgery: Requires strong academic results in five subjects, including English and Mathematics, and compulsory National Benchmark Test (NBT) scores. (Wits University)
National Benchmark Tests (NBT)
Certain faculties require applicants to write National Benchmark Tests:
- Faculty of Science: All applicants must take both the Academic & Quantitative Literacy and Mathematics tests. (Wits University)
- Health, Humanities and other faculties may also require NBTs for selection and placement. (Wits University)
NBT scores are used in addition to Grade 12 results to assess readiness for university study.
International and Non-Standard Qualifications
Wits also accepts international credentials and other South African qualifications such as the National Certificate (Vocational) under certain conditions. (StudentRoom.co.za)
If you hold foreign qualifications, you must provide equivalence and translation documentation according to South African requirements. (StudentRoom.co.za)
Postgraduate Admission Requirements
For postgraduate programmes, admission depends on the level of study (Honours, Master’s, or PhD) and specific faculty criteria.
General Postgraduate Criteria
- Honours Programmes: A completed bachelor’s degree and certified transcripts must be submitted. (Wits University)
- Master’s and Doctoral Studies: Entry requirements vary widely by discipline. Applicants should consult the official programme page or use the Wits course finder for specific criteria. (Wits University)
Application and Supporting Documents
Before submitting your application, you will need:
- Certified copies of certificates and transcripts
- Completion of the online application process
- Payment of the applicable application fee (e.g., R100 for South African citizens, R700 for international applicants). (Wits University)
Support and assistance are available through the Wits Student Call Centre and official help channels. (Wits University)
Important Notes
- Admission is competitive and meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee a placement. (Wits University)
- Many programmes have closing dates—especially in fields like Health Sciences—so plan your application well in advance. (universityqualifications.co.za)
Summary
Understanding the Wits Admission Requirements helps you determine whether you qualify for your chosen degree and what steps to take next. From NSC qualifications to faculty-specific criteria like APS scores and NBT results, each component plays a role in the application process. Use official resources such as the Wits undergraduate entry page and programme-specific admissions pages to plan your application successfully.
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