International Applicants New
Apply to UWC as an International Student
If you obtained your qualifications outside South Africa, there are a few additional steps before you submit your UWC application. Follow the steps below to prepare your documents and apply online.
Check Your Admission Eligibility
Use the UWC APS Calculator to determine whether your qualifications meet the minimum admission requirements for undergraduate study. The calculator also supports many international school qualifications. Where your qualification is not listed on the APS Calculator, you can still proceed with the online application. Your qualification and selection criteria will be checked internally.
You'll Need:
- Your latest school results or final qualification
- Your intended programme, if known
The APS Calculator provides only an indication of your eligibility. Meeting the minimum APS does not guarantee admission.
Choose Your Programme
Once you've confirmed your eligibility, review the admission requirements for your chosen programme. Some programmes may have additional requirements.
Additional Requirements May Include
- Required school subjects
- Faculty selection criteria
UWC Faculties
Apply for Your USAf Foreign Exemption or SAQA Evaluation
If you obtained your qualification outside South Africa, you must have it formally assessed by the relevant external body. Undergraduate applicants apply to Universities South Africa (USAf) for a Foreign Exemption Certificate. Postgraduate applicants apply to the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) for an Evaluation Certificate. You do not need the certificate to submit your UWC application, but it is required for selection.
USAf Foreign Exemption Certificate
If you obtained your school-leaving qualification outside South Africa, you must apply for a USAf Foreign Exemption Certificate before you can be admitted to study at UWC.
- Submit your final school results to Universities South Africa (USAf) for evaluation
- Complete the USAf online Assessment and Exemption Application
- Obtain your USAf Foreign Exemption Certificate confirming you qualify for admission to a South African university
- Upload a certified copy of your passport as part of your UWC application
Upload it together with your UWC application.
You may still submit your UWC application. Upload proof that you have applied and submit your USAf Foreign Exemption Certificate once issued.
Important: Your application cannot be considered for selection until your USAf Foreign Exemption Certificate has been received. The Certificate and all other outstanding documentation must be uploaded by 30 September 2026.
SAQA Evaluation Certificate
If you obtained your undergraduate qualification outside South Africa, you must apply for a SAQA Evaluation Certificate before your application can be assessed for postgraduate admission to UWC.
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Register on the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) online system
- Submit your foreign qualification documents for evaluation
- Obtain your SAQA Evaluation Certificate confirming the South African NQF level and comparability of your qualification
- Upload your academic qualification(s) and supporting documents as part of your UWC application
Upload it together with your UWC application.
You may still submit your UWC application. Upload proof that you have applied and submit your SAQA Evaluation Certificate once issued.
Important: Your application cannot be considered for selection until your SAQA Evaluation Certificate has been received. The Certificate and all other outstanding documentation must be uploaded by 30 September 2026.
Submitting Outstanding Documents
If you have already applied to UWC and still need to submit your USAf Foreign Exemption Certificate, SAQA Evaluation Certificate or other outstanding documents, upload them using the link below. All outstanding documents must be uploaded no later than 30 September 2026.
Submit Your Online Application
Once you have completed all the steps above, you are ready to submit your UWC Online Application.
Before you apply, make sure you have:
- Checked your admission eligibility
- Reviewed your programme requirements
- Completed the required USAf and/or SAQA process
- Prepared your supporting documents
If you need to change one of your programme choices after submitting your application, you can do so by completing the Application Change Request Form .
What Happens Next?
Once your application has been submitted, here is what to expect.
You will receive an acknowledgement email confirming receipt of your application.
Please use your applicant number in all future correspondence with UWC.
Monitor your email regularly for requests for additional documentation or updates.
Successful applicants will receive further communication regarding admission and next steps.
Once you receive an offer of admission from UWC, you can begin your study visa application. Please wait until you have received your offer before applying for your visa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Click any question to expand the answer.
Need Assistance?
Get in Touch
Our offices are here to guide and support you throughout your application. Reach out to the International Student Support Office for application-specific enquiries, or contact our general support lines below.
International Student Support Office (ISSO)
For all international application inquiries—eligibility, USAf and SAQA guidance, documentation requirements, and support throughout the application process.
UWC Contact Centre
For general UWC enquiries, prospectus requests, and directing calls to the correct department.
Student Admin Helpdesk
Your central point of contact for applicants, documentation, forms, and academic enquiries.
