Where Can I Apply for Nursing in South Africa in 2026?🏥🇿🇦

Embark on a Rewarding Career in Healthcare

Published: July, 2025

Are you passionate about caring for others and making a tangible difference in people’s lives? A career in nursing is incredibly rewarding and constantly in demand in South Africa. If you’re wondering where to begin your journey to becoming a professional nurse, you’ve come to the right place!

South Africa boasts a number of reputable universities and private institutions that offer accredited nursing programmes. This guide will help you navigate the application process, highlighting key institutions and general requirements to help you kickstart your nursing career.

Healthcare Careers
Top Universities and Institutions for Nursing in South Africa 🎓
Here’s a list of some prominent institutions where you can pursue a Bachelor of Nursing (BNurs) degree or equivalent qualification:

Academic Requirements (National Senior Certificate – NSC)
Minimum APS (Admission Point Score): Nursing programs are competitive. You’ll typically need an APS ranging from 25 to 30+, depending on the university and specific program (Bachelor’s Degree vs. Diploma).
Compulsory Subjects:
English: Usually a minimum Level 4 (50-59%) or higher.
Life Sciences (Biology): Often a minimum Level 4 (50-59%) or higher.
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: Requirements vary. Some universities prefer Mathematics (Level 3 or 4), while others accept Mathematical Literacy (Level 4 or 5).
Physical Sciences: Often required at Level 3 (40-49%) or higher, especially for Bachelor’s degrees.
Life Orientation: Usually required at Level 4 (50-59%), though often not included in the APS calculation.
National Benchmark Test (NBT): Many universities require you to write the NBTs (Academic Literacy, Quantitative Literacy, and Mathematics). Your scores will contribute to the selection process.
Other Requirements
South African Citizenship/Permanent Residency: Most public university places are for SA citizens. International applicants have different criteria and limited spaces.
Certified Copies: You’ll need certified copies of your ID, Grade 11 results, and Grade 12 results (when available).
Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee is usually required.
Selection Process: Beyond academic merit, some institutions may include psychometric testing, interviews, health assessments, or a motivational letter as part of their selection.
SANC Registration: Upon admission, students must register with the South African Nursing Council (SANC) as a student nurse.
Pile of application documents with a pen.
Gathering your documents is a crucial step.
Online Courses & Certifications

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide 📝
The application process is generally similar across institutions, primarily involving online portals:

University of Cape Town (UCT): Renowned for its strong health sciences faculty, UCT offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Nursing. Learn more about UCT Nursing
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits): Located in Johannesburg, Wits offers a Bachelor of Nursing degree that prepares professionals for general nursing and midwifery practice. Explore Wits Nursing
University of Johannesburg (UJ): UJ’s Department of Nursing offers evidence-based courses at basic, post-basic, and postgraduate levels, focusing on caring as a pivotal part of nursing. Discover UJ Nursing
University of Pretoria (UP): A pioneer in nursing education, UP’s Department of Nursing Science offered the first degree programme in Nursing in South Africa in 1956. Visit UP Nursing Science
Stellenbosch University: Offers a Bachelor of Nursing and other postgraduate qualifications in nursing science. Stellenbosch Nursing Information
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN): The Discipline of Nursing at UKZN offers undergraduate and postgraduate nursing education accredited by SANC. UKZN Nursing Programmes
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT): Offers a four-year Bachelor of Nursing programme and postgraduate diplomas, focusing on innovative care. CPUT Nursing Science
North-West University (NWU): Offers Bachelor of Nursing programmes across its campuses. NWU Nursing Information
University of the Western Cape (UWC): The School of Nursing at UWC offers both undergraduate and postgraduate nursing education. UWC School of Nursing
Nelson Mandela University (NMU): Offers Bachelor of Nursing and other nursing qualifications. NMU Nursing Science
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU): A dedicated health sciences university offering a Bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery. SMU Health Sciences Admissions
UNISA (University of South Africa): Offers distance learning options for certain nursing qualifications, often for registered nurses looking to upgrade their qualifications. UNISA Nursing Science
Private Nursing Colleges (e.g., Life Healthcare, Netcare, Mediclinic): These private hospital groups also run their own accredited nursing education institutions offering diplomas and degrees. Their application processes are typically managed directly through their education and training departments.
Life Healthcare Education and Training
Netcare Education
Mediclinic Education
Group of nursing students in a classroom setting.
Aspiring nurses gaining knowledge and skills.

Study Loans & Bursaries
General Application Requirements for Nursing Programs 📋
While specific requirements vary slightly between institutions, here are the common academic and personal criteria you’ll generally need to meet:

Research Specific Programmes: Visit the websites of your chosen universities/colleges. Look for the “Admissions,” “Study,” or “Programmes” sections to find the exact nursing qualification you’re interested in and its specific requirements.
Check Application Dates: Application periods typically open in April/May for the following academic year and close around July/August, though some may extend later. Private colleges might have different intake dates.
Complete Online Application: Most institutions use online application portals. Create an account, fill in all personal and academic details accurately.
Pay the Application Fee: Follow the instructions on the portal to pay the non-refundable application fee. Keep your proof of payment.
Upload Certified Documents: Scan and upload all required documents (ID, academic results, NBT results if applicable, proof of payment). Ensure they are clear and certified.
Submit and Track: Submit your application and keep track of its status via the online portal. You’ll usually receive communication via email or SMS.
Remember: Apply early! Nursing programmes are highly competitive, and early applications often have a better chance.

Person using a laptop to fill out an online application.
The digital pathway to your nursing career.
Your Future in Caring Awaits! 💖

A career in nursing is a noble and vital profession that offers immense personal and professional satisfaction. By thoroughly researching your options, understanding the application requirements, and submitting a strong application, you’ll be well on your way to joining the ranks of dedicated healthcare professionals in South Africa. Good luck with your applications, and may your journey into nursing be fulfilling!