For the 2027 intake, the University of the Western Cape (UWC) asks Bachelor of Nursing applicants for a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 30 UWC points, Mathematics at Code 4 or Mathematical Literacy at Code 6, and Life Sciences at Code 4 (see the UWC 2027 admissions criteria).
The four-year Bachelor of Nursing at the School of Nursing leads to registration with the South African Nursing Council (SANC) as a general nurse and midwife. Applications for 2027 closed on 30 September 2026, so use these requirements to plan for the next cycle and confirm dates on the UWC apply page. See also our general nursing requirements guide.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
- An NSC with a minimum of 30 UWC points
- Mathematics at Code 4 (50-59%) or Mathematical Literacy at Code 6 (70-79%)
- Life Sciences at Code 4 (50-59%)
- English at Level 4 and another language at Level 3, according to the programme rules in the UWC faculty calendar
- Selection by the Faculty, so meeting the minimum does not guarantee a place
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
UWC’s rule for bachelor’s degree study is an NSC with no fewer than 30 points on the University’s own points system. For nursing, the faculty calendar adds Level 4 (50-59%) English, Level 3 (40-49%) in another language, Level 4 Life Sciences, and either Level 4 Mathematics or Level 6 (70-79%) Mathematical Literacy. The Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy and Life Sciences levels match the 2027 admissions criteria. The language levels come from the calendar, so confirm them for the year you apply.
The Bachelor of Nursing is full-time over four years, with compulsory clinical learning in clinical facilities.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
UWC does not use the standard APS. It scores your NSC on its own points system: English and Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy score 7 points at Level 4 and 9 at Level 5, Life Orientation scores 2 at Level 4, and every other subject scores 4 at Level 4 and 5 at Level 5. The UWC application information page sets out the full table. Check it for the current year, as the page text may not yet reflect the 2027 cycle.
Physical Sciences is not listed among the nursing subject requirements. Mathematical Literacy is accepted, but only at Level 6, which is a much higher mark than the Level 4 asked of Mathematics.
Documents and Application Requirements
You apply online through the UWC apply page. UWC states that no application fee is payable and that you may choose up to two programmes. The documents depend on your situation.
- Current matric learners do not need to upload supporting documents.
- If you have already matriculated, upload your matric certificate.
- Post-matric applicants upload a certified copy of the NSC or Senior Certificate, a certified ID, an affidavit of post-matric activities and proof of upgraded results if applicable.
- Applicants under 18 must submit a signed consent form.
- A Statement of Results cannot be used for a final application; the NSC is required.
Once you register, first-year nursing students must show proof of Hepatitis B vaccination before the second term starts, and need professional indemnity cover before clinical practice. Students must also register with SANC within two months of starting. These apply at registration, not when you apply. Ask the School of Nursing whether any other health or clearance documents are needed before placement.
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
Selection is not automatic. UWC bases the final selection on whether you meet the criteria set by the Faculty, and UWC does not publish a fixed score cut-off or number of places on these pages.
SANC allows a maximum of 10% of applicants to enter the programme through Recognition of Prior Learning. The 2027 cycle opened on 1 April 2026 and the general closing date was 30 September 2026, and Nursing was not among the programmes left open afterwards. Watch the UWC apply page for the opening date of the next cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does UWC require for nursing?
An NSC with at least 30 UWC points, Mathematics Code 4 or Mathematical Literacy Code 6, and Life Sciences Code 4 for the 2027 intake. The faculty calendar also sets English at Level 4 and another language at Level 3.
Can I study nursing at UWC with Mathematical Literacy?
Yes, if you reach Level 6 (70-79%) in Mathematical Literacy. The alternative is Level 4 (50-59%) in Mathematics.
Do I need Physical Sciences for nursing at UWC?
No. UWC’s nursing criteria list Life Sciences and Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, not Physical Sciences.
Are there extended programmes?
The faculty calendar lists a Bachelor of Nursing Extended Curriculum Programme (code 8313) with the same stated admission criteria, and the School of Nursing refers applicants to the criteria for both 8312 and 8313. Confirm with the School of Nursing that it is still offered for your intake.
Is there an application fee?
UWC states that no application fee is payable.
Do I need a police clearance certificate or health screening report to apply?
UWC’s published application documents do not include either. Hepatitis B vaccination proof is required of first-year students before the second term. Ask the School of Nursing about any other requirements before clinical placement.
Can I still apply for 2027?
No. The general closing date was 30 September 2026 and Nursing was not on the list of programmes still open. Confirm the dates for the next cycle on the UWC apply page.
Confirm everything with UWC admissions and the School of Nursing before you apply. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.