University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) Application and Registration Fees for 2027/2028

Navigating university application and registration fees can be a complex process. Understanding these costs upfront is essential for prospective students planning their academic journey at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). This guide breaks down the application and registration fees for the 2027/2028 academic year, covering undergraduate, postgraduate, certificate, professional, and diploma programs.

Wits Application Fees

For the 2027/2028 academic year, Wits has set specific non-refundable application fees. South African citizens are required to pay R100. Foreign citizens, however, will pay a higher fee of R700. It is important to ensure that these payments are made before the application closing dates. When making payments, applicants must use their T Number or Person Number as a reference.

All postgraduate applicants are subject to a R200 application fee. However, current Wits students who submit their applications online are exempt from this fee. This application fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether a student decides not to study at Wits, does not qualify for admission, or is not offered a space due to limited availability.

Wits Registration Fees

As of the publication of this information, the University of the Witwatersrand does not charge a separate fee for registration itself. Instead, students are required to make an initial payment towards their total tuition fees and any associated accommodation costs before they can officially register.

First Fee Payment for Self-Funded Students

Self-funded students must make a first fee payment before registration. For the 2027/2028 academic year, this standard amount is R9340 for all South African students. Failure to make this payment will prevent students from registering for their chosen programs. Payments made via EFT should be processed at least four days in advance to ensure they clear before the registration period.

If a student cannot meet this payment deadline, they may apply for a postponement to pay the full fees by the end of April. This postponement can be completed on the student self-service portal, allowing for immediate online registration. Eligibility for this postponement requires that a student has been offered and has accepted a place in a program.

Certain students are exempt from this initial R9340 payment. These include those with a provisional NSFAS funding offer for 2027, recipients of a full Wits University Scholarship, or students whose family earnings fall below R350,000 per annum. Students in the latter category must request a postponement of the first fee payment via the self-service portal. Additionally, students who can present proof of an awarded external bursary or scholarship are also exempt. International students have different payment requirements.

International Student Payments

International students are required to pay 75% of their annual tuition fees, along with other related costs and on-campus accommodation fees, on or before the registration date. This upfront payment is a prerequisite for registration.

Payment Methods

Payments to the University of the Witwatersrand can be made through several methods. Bank drafts issued in South African currency (ZAR) and made payable to the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, are accepted. Electronic transfers can also be made into designated accounts.

For undergraduate application fees, payments should be directed to Standard Bank, Braamfontein branch, with branch code 004805 and account number 200 346 385. The Swift code is SBZAZAJJ. Applicants must use their person number as the reference. Alternatively, payments can be made in cash or by credit card at the Wits Fees Office, located on the Ground Floor of Solomon Mahlangu House (Senate House) on the Braamfontein Campus East. EFT payments require the T Number or person/student number as a reference.

For tuition fees and the annual International Registration fee, the account details are Standard Bank, Braamfontein branch, branch code 004805, and account number 002 891 697. The Swift code is SBZAZAJJ. Proof of payment should be faxed to 27 11 717 4918, and the person number must be used as the reference. In South Africa, cash payments can be made at the Wits University Cashier Office or at any Standard Bank branch using the same account details. Electronic transfers must include the person number as the reference.

Postgraduate applicants follow similar payment procedures for application fees, using the same Standard Bank account as undergraduate application fees. For postgraduate tuition and international registration fees, the account details are also identical to those for undergraduate tuition fees.

Students will not be registered for their programs if they have not paid 75% of their annual fees, including tuition, international registration fee, and on-campus accommodation, prior to registration, or if they do not have documented evidence of sponsorship. For further inquiries, individuals can contact 27 11 717 1530.

Conclusion

Understanding the application and registration fee structure for the University of the Witwatersrand for the 2027/2028 academic year is a critical step for prospective students. By familiarizing yourself with these requirements, including the non-refundable application fees, the initial tuition payment, and the specific procedures for international students, you can ensure a smoother transition into your academic life at Wits. Always double-check payment deadlines and methods to avoid any last-minute complications.