Wits 2027 Admissions Guide: APS, NBTs & Application Deadlines
Applying to the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) for the 2027 academic year requires careful attention to key deadlines, academic requirements, and specific selection tests. This comprehensive Wits 2027 admissions guide provides essential information for prospective students, covering eligibility, how Wits calculates your Admission Point Score (APS), which programmes require National Benchmark Tests (NBTs), and crucial Wits application dates.
Wits 2027 Application Eligibility: Who Can Apply?
Wits welcomes applications from various prospective students for 2027. This includes first-year students who are completing their Grade 12 in 2026, students who have already matriculated, and international students. It is important for all applicants to understand the specific Wits requirements for their chosen programmes.
Wits APS Requirements & Score Calculation for 2027 Admissions
Your Admission Point Score (APS) is a key factor in your Wits application. Wits calculates your APS based on your best seven subjects. This includes Life Orientation. English and Mathematics can give you bonus points if you achieve 60% or higher in these subjects. Each programme has an indicative minimum APS score:
- Commerce programmes often require APS scores in the mid-to-upper 30s.
- Science programmes frequently require scores above 40.
- Health Sciences programmes typically have some of the highest APS requirements.
Remember that meeting these minimum Wits APS requirements does not guarantee a place due to the limited availability in many programmes.
Wits NBT Requirements for 2027 Applications
For certain Wits faculties and programmes, writing the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) is a compulsory part of the Wits 2027 application process. These tests help Wits assess your academic readiness for university studies. NBTs are required for:
- All applicants to the Faculty of Health Sciences. For these programmes, NBTs must be written in-person, using a pencil-and-paper format only.
- All applicants to the Faculty of Science.
- Applicants for the Bachelor of Audiology programme.
- Applicants for the Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology programme.
It is strongly advised for Health Sciences applicants to write their NBTs by mid-August for early feedback. Science applicants should aim to complete their NBTs by the end of October.
Key Wits 2027 Application Deadlines
Understanding and adhering to the Wits application deadlines is critical for a successful application to Wits 2027. Applications generally opened on April 1, 2026. However, various programmes had different closing dates:
- June 30, 2026:
- All programmes within the Faculty of Health Sciences.
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies.
- Bachelor of Audiology.
- Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology.
- BA Film and TV.
- September 30, 2026:
- All other undergraduate programmes at Wits.
- Applications for residence.
For tertiary applicants, final academic records were due by December 15, 2026, for Health Sciences programmes and by January 13, 2027, for all other faculties.
Wits may offer provisional acceptance based on your Grade 11 results, with the final admission decision confirmed once your official Matric results are available.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply to Wits for 2027
The Wits application process for 2027 is primarily online through the Wits self-service portal. Here are the steps involved in your Wits university application:
- Create an Account: Access the Wits self-service portal and create a new applicant account.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill in all required personal and academic details accurately.
- Pay the Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee is required. This fee was R100 for South African applicants and R700 for international applicants.
- Upload Supporting Documents: You will need to submit certified copies of several Wits application documents:
- Your South African ID or passport.
- Your latest academic results (final Grade 11 results for current Matrics, or certified Matric certificates for those who have already matriculated).
- Proof of application fee payment.
- Any specific programme documents, such as portfolios or questionnaires, if applicable to your chosen course.
Applicants can apply for a maximum of three programmes. Ensure all documents are certified and uploaded correctly to avoid delays in your Wits application processing.
Successfully applying to Wits for 2027 requires careful planning and strict adherence to all instructions. By understanding the Wits APS calculation, NBT requirements, and critical Wits application deadlines, you can navigate the Wits 2027 application process more effectively. While meeting minimum Wits requirements is essential, remember that admission is highly competitive due to limited spaces. We wish you the best of luck with your Wits application!
Frequently Asked Questions About Wits 2027 Applications
What is the Wits APS score calculation for 2027 admissions?
Wits calculates your Admission Point Score (APS) based on your best seven subjects, including Life Orientation. English and Mathematics can provide bonus points if you achieve 60% or higher in these subjects.
Are NBTs compulsory for all Wits programmes in 2027?
No, National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) are not compulsory for all programmes. They are specifically required for all applicants to the Faculty of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Bachelor of Audiology, and Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology programmes.
When did Wits 2027 applications open and close?
Wits 2027 applications generally opened on April 1, 2026. Deadlines varied by programme: Health Sciences, Bachelor of Architectural Studies, Audiology, Speech-Language Pathology, and BA Film and TV closed on June 30, 2026. All other undergraduate programmes and residence applications closed on September 30, 2026.
What documents are needed for a Wits application?
You will need certified copies of your South African ID or passport, latest academic results (Grade 11 or Matric certificate), proof of application fee payment, and any specific programme documents like portfolios.
How many programmes can I apply for at Wits?
Applicants to Wits can apply for a maximum of three programmes through the Wits self-service portal.