The University of Pretoria (UP) is one of South Africa’s largest and most respected universities. Established in 1908, UP has built a reputation for academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and industry relevance. It consistently ranks among the top universities in Africa, making it a leading choice for students pursuing business, engineering, health sciences, and law.
Located in Pretoria, Gauteng, UP is known for its world-class facilities, diverse student body, and strong industry connections. If you’re looking for a university that offers high-quality education, career-focused programs, and excellent student support, UP is a solid choice.
Popular Courses & Certifications
UP has nine faculties, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Here are some of the top choices:
Commerce & Business Management
- Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) – Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Economics
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) through the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS)
Engineering & Technology
- BEng in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Industrial Engineering
- Computer and Software Engineering
- Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Research
Health Sciences & Medicine
- MBChB (Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery)
- BSc in Nursing, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy
- Specializations in Public Health, Biomedical Sciences, and Veterinary Science
Law & Political Science
- LLB (Bachelor of Laws)
- Postgraduate Diplomas in Corporate Law and International Law
- Political Science and Public Administration Degrees
Science & Agriculture
- BSc in Data Science, Environmental Science, and Biotechnology
- Agricultural Science and Sustainable Farming Research
UP is known for strong industry partnerships, providing graduates with an edge in the job market.
Admission Requirements
Admission to UP is competitive, with specific APS score requirements based on faculty and program choice.
General Admission Requirements:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Bachelor’s Pass
- Mathematics and Physical Sciences for Engineering, Science, and Health programs
- English or Afrikaans at Level 5 or higher (varies by faculty)
- APS requirements range from 30 to 42, depending on the program
International students must meet equivalent academic and language requirements.
Tuition Fees & Financial Aid
Tuition fees at UP vary depending on the faculty. Estimated costs per year:
- Undergraduate programs: R50,000 – R110,000 per year
- Postgraduate programs: R80,000 – R160,000 per year
- Medicine, Engineering, and Veterinary Science programs tend to have higher fees due to lab and practical work
Financial Aid & Scholarships
- NSFAS Funding – Available for eligible South African students
- Merit Scholarships – Based on academic performance
- Corporate and Government Bursaries – Offered by companies like ABSA, Sasol, and Deloitte
- Work-Study Programs – Opportunities to work part-time on campus
Campus Life & Student Support
UP provides a rich student experience with top-tier academic support, networking opportunities, and extracurricular activities.
Accommodation & Housing
- On-campus residences for first-year and postgraduate students.
- Private student accommodation options in Hatfield, Brooklyn, and Arcadia.
Student Organizations & Extracurricular Activities
- Over 100 student societies, including debate, entrepreneurship, and environmental clubs.
- UP’s sports program offers rugby, soccer, athletics, swimming, and more.
Career & Student Support Services
- UP Career Centre connects students with internship and job opportunities.
- Mental health and academic counseling services are available.
- Entrepreneurship hubs for students interested in business and startups.
Contact Information & How to Apply
Applications to UP are submitted online through the official admissions portal. Key deadlines include:
- Applications Open: April each year
- Early Application Deadline: June 30
- Final Deadline: September 30
- NSFAS Application Deadline: November 30
University of Pretoria Contact Details
- Website: www.up.ac.za
- Email: admissions@up.ac.za
- Phone: +27 12 420 3111
- Address: Lynnwood Road, Hatfield, Pretoria, South Africa
The University of Pretoria is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a high-quality education, strong research opportunities, and a career-focused degree. The university has a reputation for producing graduates who excel in both local and international industries.
Ready to apply? Start your UP application here | Need financial assistance? Check available bursaries and scholarships | Want to compare UP with other universities? Explore our rankings guide