The University of Venda (UNIVEN) invites prospective students to kick-start their academic journey and shape a future full of opportunities. The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications across four faculties: Science, Engineering and Agriculture; Management, Commerce and Law; Humanities, Social Sciences and Education; and Health Sciences.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying to UNIVEN for the 2026 academic year, including application dates, step-by-step instructions, document requirements, admission criteria, and how to track your application status.
University of Venda Online Application: Complete 2026 Guide
Part 1: Key Application Dates for This Year
The 2026 online application process is currently open. Prospective students are encouraged to apply as early as possible to secure space in high-demand programmes.
Event: Applications Open
Date: 1 April
Event: Application Closing Date
Date: 26 September
Event: Residence Applications Open
Date: 1 August
Event: Residence Applications Close
Date: 30 September
Important: The application process is online and is free of charge for the 2026 intake. Late applications are generally not accepted, so it is essential to apply before the closing date.
Part 2: Admission Requirements
Before applying, you need to understand the minimum requirements for your chosen qualification.
Degree Programmes
The minimum admission requirement is a National Senior Certificate (NSC) as certified by Umalusi with an achievement rating of 4 (adequate achievement, 50-59%) or better in four subjects chosen from the recognised 20-credit NSC subjects. In addition, applicants must have a minimum point score of 26. A Grade 12 certificate with a bachelor or matric exemption is required if Grade 12 has been achieved.
Diploma Programmes
The minimum admission requirement is a National Senior Certificate (NSC) as certified by Umalusi with an achievement rating of 3 (moderate achievement, 40-49%) or better in four recognised NSC 20-credit subjects.
Certificate Programmes
The minimum admission requirement is a National Senior Certificate (NSC) as certified by Umalusi.
Important Note: Achievement of the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to any programme. Admission is competitive, and space in programmes is limited.
Part 3: Required Documents
Before you begin your online application, prepare the following documents. These should be clear, scanned copies in PDF format.
Document: Certified copy of your South African ID (or passport for international students)
Notes: Must be clear and legible
Document: Final Grade 11 results (for current Matric learners)
Notes: Must have the school’s stamp
Document: Grade 12 June or Trial results (if available)
Notes: Helpful for early applications
Document: National Senior Certificate (if you have already matriculated)
Notes: Certified copy
Document: Academic record and certificate of good conduct (for transfer students)
Notes: If you have studied at another tertiary institution
Document: Study permit, medical insurance, and SAQA Evaluation Certificate (for international applicants)
Notes: Required for non-South African applicants
Document: Proof of payment (R100 application fee for South Africans)
Notes: Keep your proof of payment safe
Note: If your documents are not submitted correctly or are blurry, your application may be delayed or rejected.
Part 4: Step-by-Step Online Application Process
Follow these steps to complete your UNIVEN online application.
Step 1: Decide What to Study
Before applying, explore the full list of qualifications offered at the university. The university’s website has an updated brochure that outlines entry requirements, duration, career opportunities, and subjects for each course.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
Prepare all your required documents in advance as listed in Part 3 above.
Step 3: Access the Online Application Portal
Go to the official University of Venda website at www.univen.ac.za. Look for the online application link on the homepage.
Step 4: Register and Create a PIN
To apply online, you need a South African ID number (or passport number for international applicants), a 10-digit valid cell phone number, and an email address. You will be required to create a 5-digit PIN for your application process.
Step 5: Complete the Application Form
Fill in all required personal information, including your name, surname, ID number, and contact details. Select your preferred qualification and faculty. Ensure all mandatory fields are completed.
You can save your progress during the online application process and return later to complete it.
Step 6: Upload Your Supporting Documents
Upload scanned copies of all required documents. Make sure they are clear and in the correct format (PDF is preferred).
Step 7: Pay the Application Fee
There is a non-refundable application fee of R100 for South African applicants and R200 for international applicants. This must be paid before your application can be processed. Use the reference number provided when making payment and keep proof of payment safe.
Note: The university has stated that the 2026 application process will be free of charge. If this applies to your application, verify current fee requirements on the official website.
Step 8: Review and Submit
Complete your application by pressing the Submit button. Upon submission, you will receive a student number. Obtaining a student number does not guarantee acceptance.
Step 9: Save Your Student Number
Keep your student number safe for future enquiries with the university. You will need it to track your application status.
Part 5: How to Track Your Application Status
After submitting your application, you can track its progress online.
Tracking Steps for Applicants
The application status tracking link becomes active at specific times. For this year the link was activated on 20 January. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Click on the tracking link: https://www.admission.univen.ac.za
Step 2: Enter your ID or Passport Number
Step 3: View the qualifications for which you qualify for admission
Step 4: Select your preferred choice and click the Request for Admission button
Step 5: Wait for a response
Step 6: If admitted, register within three (3) days
What Your Status Means
Status: Admitted
Meaning: You have been accepted into the programme
Action Required: Register within 3 days
Status: Not Admitted
Meaning: You did not meet the requirements
Action Required: Consider alternative programmes
Status: Awaiting Results
Meaning: Your application is pending final results
Action Required: Submit results when available
Status: Programme Full
Meaning: No space available in your chosen programme
Action Required: Apply for an alternative
Part 6: Residence Application
If you require on-campus accommodation, you must apply for residence separately.
Residence Application Period: 1 August – 30 September
Who Can Apply?
– First-year students
– Senior and returning students
– Postgraduate students
How to Apply for Residence:
1. Visit www.univen.ac.za
2. Log in to the Student Portal
3. Click on Residence Application
4. Complete and submit your application online
Note: Residence spaces are limited. Apply as early as possible to secure accommodation.
Part 7: Contact Information for Application Enquiries
If you have questions during the online application process, you can contact the university using the details below.
General Application Enquiries
Name: Mulidzi Fhatuwani
Phone Number: 015 962 8959
Email Address: Fhatuwani.mulidzi@univen.ac.za
Faculty: Humanities, Social Science and Education; Health Sciences
Name: Muthevhuli Alvinah
Phone Number: 015 962 8953
Email Address: stella.mmbobo@univen.ac.za
Faculty: Management, Commerce and Law; Science, Engineering and Agriculture
Name: Thizwilondi Nefale
Phone Number: 015 962 8974
Email Address: Thizwilondi.nefale@univen.ac.za
Faculty: General enquiries
Name: Makhavhu Phathutshedzo
Phone Number: 015 962 9305
Email Address: Phathutshedzo.makhavhu@univen.ac.za
Faculty: General enquiries
Legal Practice School (Venda Campus)
For enquiries related to the School for Legal Practice:
Contact Person: Ms Queen Gopo (Night)
Phone Number: 015 290 2811/12/88
Email Address: Gopoq@LSSA.org.za
Address: University of Venda, Office No G5, Mobile Office Complex, University Road, Thohoyandou, 0950
Part 8: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is there an application fee for UNIVEN?
The university has stated that the application process will be online and free of charge. However, other sources indicate a R100 fee for South African applicants. Verify current fee requirements on the official UNIVEN website before applying.
Q2: Can I apply if I am still in Grade 12?
Yes. Current Grade 12 learners can apply using their final Grade 11 results. You will need to submit your Grade 12 results when they become available.
Q3: Can I save my application and complete it later?
Yes. You can save your progress during the online application process and return later to complete it.
Q4: How will I know if my application has been received?
Upon submission, you will receive a student number via email. This confirms that your application has been received.
Q5: What if I do not meet the minimum requirements?
Achievement of the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. If you do not meet the requirements for your chosen programme, you may consider applying for a lower-level qualification (e.g., a diploma instead of a degree) or an alternative programme.
Q6: Can international students apply?
Yes. International applicants are welcome to apply. You will need a passport number, study permit, medical insurance, and a SAQA Evaluation Certificate.
Q7: When will I know if I have been accepted?
Admission decisions are made after the closing date. You can track your application status using the online tracking portal at https://www.admission.univen.ac.za.
Q8: What is the minimum APS for a degree programme?
The minimum point score required is 26, with an achievement rating of 4 (50-59%) or better in four recognised subjects.
Summary Table: Key Information at a Glance
Aspect: University
Details: University of Venda (UNIVEN)
Aspect: Location
Details: Thohoyandou, Limpopo
Aspect: Application Period
Details: 1 April – 26 September
Aspect: Application Fee
Details: Free. (verify on website)
Aspect: Application Method
Details: Online only
Aspect: Required for Application
Details: SA ID/Passport, cell phone number, email address
Aspect: Documents Needed
Details: ID, Grade 11 results, Grade 12 results (if available)
Aspect: Residence Application
Details: 1 August – 30 September
Aspect: Application Status Portal
Details: https://www.admission.univen.ac.za
Aspect: Website
Details: www.univen.ac.za
Related:
Conclusion:
Applying to the University of Venda for the 2026 academic year is a straightforward online process. Start by checking the admission requirements for your chosen programme. Gather all required documents, including your ID and latest academic results. Complete the online application form, upload your documents, and submit before the closing date of 26 September.
After submission, you will receive a student number. Use this number to track your application status on the online portal. If you require accommodation, submit a separate residence application between 1 August and 30 September the previous year.
For any questions during the application process, contact the relevant faculty official using the phone numbers and email addresses provided in this guide.
Good luck with your application to the University of Venda.
Disclaimer: Admission requirements, APS scores, and application dates are subject to change. The information provided here is based on the most recent publicly available data. Always confirm with the official University of Venda website (www.univen.ac.za) or admissions office before applying. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as space is limited and selection is competitive.