Named after South Africa’s most iconic statesman, Nelson Mandela University is located in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape. 27 000 students are enrolled across seven campuses and there are 130 fields of study. Students know the university as ‘Madibaz,’ a name that affectionately captures the warm, community-driven spirit of the late, great Nelson Mandela.
NELSON MANDELA UNIVERSITY
Applications for the 2027 academic year opened this month (April 2026). And these are the key closing dates potential Nelson Mandela University students should know:
- 30 June 2026 for MBChB, BPharm, and BRad programmes.
- 1 August 2026 all other courses.
- 30 September 2026 for international students.
- 30 September 2026 for student housing
When applying, be sure to have certified copies of your Grade 12 results, your South African ID or birth certificate, and any prior academic records ready. Submit your application online at applyonline.mandela.ac.za.
TOP COURSES AT NMU
The Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences is the most prominent at Nelson Mandela University. It houses an internationally accredited Business School along with schools for Accounting, Management Sciences and Industrial Psychology.
Due to its proximity to the ocean, NMU is also renowned for research in marine biology, ocean sciences and renewable energy. While other highly sought-after faculties include Health Sciences (Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing), Engineering & Technology, Law, Humanities and Education.
WHAT ABOUT CAMPUS LIFE?
The Nelson Mandela University South Campus sits on 830 hectares of private nature reserve. It’s home to 22 mammal and 66 bird species. And is the only university campus in South Africa to offer game drives!
And the Ocean Sciences campuses are all situated in Summerstrand, close to the beach. Student residences are available on the Summerstrand North, South, Second Avenue and George campuses, including a dedicated Postgraduate Student Village.
KEY TIPS WHEN APPLYING TO NELSON MANDELA UNIVERSITY
- Apply as early as possible. Popular programmes fill up fast after the main closing date.
- Check your programme’s specific subject requirements before applying.
- Track your application status via the portal using your reference number or contact NMU at info@mandela.ac.za or +27 41 504 1111.
