FAQs for postgraduate students’ registration

What is required for registration?

  1. Log onto the application portal and check your application status: If your status reads “Registration Ready”, you can proceed with the registration. If your status is not “Registration Ready”, you will not be able to register. Please check the details on the application portal to identify any outstanding matters.
  2. Submit your final qualification results (if applicable): If you were unable to provide your final and highest relevant qualification (Honours, Postgraduate Diplomas, Master’s, or PhD) during your initial application, you may need to submit these results in order to complete your registration. These are required to evaluate your application and issue a final offer.

How do I submit my final results or outstanding documents?

To upload documents:

  • Log in to the application portal
  • On your dashboard, select “Manage Documents” and follow the instructions.

When can I register?

Postgraduate students (honours, master’s and PhD) may register from 20 January to 31 March 2026. Please note: Master’s students in the Faculty of Law may register from 26 January 2026.

For more information, visit: https://studies.nwu.ac.za/studies/registration.

When will I receive my final offer?

NWU received a high volume of applications for the 2026 intake and is carefully reviewing each one to ensure a fair and thorough selection process. Faculties are still finalising their decisions, and you can rest assured that official communication will reach you by 31 January 2026.

Where can I register?

Register on the Student Portal only after you have paid your minimum payable fees.

For more information, visit: https://studies.nwu.ac.za/studies/registration

Are manual registrations allowed?

Manual registration on behalf of students will no longer be offered, except in cases of technical issues.

Are late registrations allowed?

Master’s and PhD students can register until 31 March. No, late registrations will not be accepted.

How will I know that my registration has been successful?

Your registration is complete when you have access to your Proof of Registration document on the Student Portal. Make sure you download it to confirm successful registration.

Will I be able to attend classes if I haven’t registered yet?

All students must complete registration before attending contact sessions. Ensure your registration is complete to avoid delays in accessing eFundi and other resources.

For eFundi Support, visit: https://services.nwu.ac.za/ctl/student-efundi-support

What bursaries and loans are available for postgraduate students?

All postgraduate students will automatically be evaluated for NWU bursary eligibility. No application is required for NWU postgraduate bursaries.

How can I apply for a postgraduate bursary?

To apply for a bursary, log onto the Student Portal and go to the “My Bursaries” category.

What is the status of my bursary application?

To check the status of your bursary application, log onto the Student Portal and go to the “My Bursaries” category.

Does NSFAS fund postgraduate studies?

No, NSFAS does not fund postgraduate studies. Only South African citizens and permanent residents with a valid South African ID number registered at an institution are eligible for NSFAS DHET funding.

A student can only be funded for one qualification at one institution at any one time. NSFAS specifically funds the first certificate qualification or undergraduate qualification. Postgraduate students are encouraged to source their own funding.

For comprehensive details on available postgraduate bursaries, visit: http://studies.nwu.ac.za/financial-support-services/nwu-postgraduate-bursary-scheme