The significance of nursing in South Africa cannot be overstated, with nurses serving as the backbone of the healthcare system, offering care and comfort in times of need.
In this article, we'll explore the application timelines for South African nursing colleges accepting students for the 2025 academic year. Whether you're set on a specific programme or just starting your research, this information will help you stay ahead of deadlines and prepare a strong application.
Nursing Colleges Applications
Free State School of Nursing
2025 applications are now open at Free State School of Nursing and will close on 1 August. Free State School of Nursing offers various nursing programmes.
The main campuses offer the Diploma in Nursing (R171) and Advanced Diploma in Midwifery programmes (R1497). The Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing (R169) will be offered at the Eastern Campus, Dr JS Moroka, Pelonomi and Boitumelo sub-campuses.
KZN College of Nursing
2025 applications for the KZN College of Nursing will open on 1 August. Aspiring nurses will be able to apply for enrollment in the National Diploma of Nursing.
Ukwazi School of Nursing
2025 applications are now open at Ukwazi School of Nursing and will close on 30 June. Applications are open for the Higher Certificate in Nursing and the Diploma in Nursing.
Western Cape College of Nursing
The Western Cape College of Nursing will open 2025 applications on 21 May. Candidates will be able to apply for a Diploma in Nursing.
Gauteng College of Nursing
The Gauteng College of Nursing has not yet confirmed their 2025 application dates but are expected to soon.
Study Nursing At University
Many universities in South Africa offer Nursing courses and many of these universities have now opened 2025 applications while others will soon follow. Here's all the universities which offer Nursing and their application dates:
Universities Now Open Which Offer Nursing
- University of Johannesburg
- University of Stellenbosch
- University of Free State
- North West University
- Wits University
- Tshwane University of Technology
- Sefako Makgatho University
- University of Cape Town
- University of Limpopo
- Nelson Mandela University
- University of Pretoria
- University of Kwazulu-Natal
- Durban University of Technology
- University of the Western Cape
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- University of Zululand
- Vaal University of Technology
- University of Venda
Universities Yet To Open Which Offer Nursing
- Unisa - 2025 application dates yet to be released
- Walter Sisulu University - 2025 application dates yet to be released
- University of Fort Hare - 2025 application dates yet to be released
To be accepted into a nursing programme, there are a number of requirements you will need to meet. Nursing requirements and the programme length will vary depending on the programme and higher education institution you are applying to.