The University of Cape Town is one of South Africa’s leading universities, and many learners are preparing to apply for the 2027 academic year.
Before submitting your application, it is important to know how much the UCT application fee is, who must pay it, and when the fee must be paid
How Much Is the UCT Application Fee for 2027?
The UCT application fee for 2027 is R100 for South African and SADC applicants and R300 for international applicants outside the SADC region.
UCT’s 2027 undergraduate prospectus states that South African and SADC applicants must pay a non-refundable application fee of R100, while other international applicants must pay R300.
This means the UCT application fee for 2027 is:
South African and SADC applicants: R100
International applicants outside SADC: R300
Is the UCT Application Fee Refundable?
No. The UCT application fee is non-refundable.
This means applicants should make sure they are applying for the correct year, programme and applicant category before paying the fee.
Who Must Pay the UCT Application Fee?
UCT says an application fee must be paid for every application, except in the case of most UCT graduates. UCT graduates and currently registered UCT students are exempt from paying an application fee, except for Graduate School of Business qualifications.
Most new applicants must therefore pay the application fee when applying.
When Do UCT Applications Close for 2027?
UCT undergraduate applications for 2027 close on 31 July 2026. UCT confirms that applications for admission to study in 2027 are open, and undergraduate applications close on 31 July.
Applicants should apply early because UCT does not encourage last-minute applications, especially for competitive programmes.
How to Pay the UCT Application Fee
Applicants can pay the UCT application fee through the official UCT payment system. UCT’s payment page states that an application fee must be paid for every application, except in the case of most UCT graduates.
When paying, make sure you:
- Use the correct payment method
- Pay the correct amount
- Use the correct application or reference number
- Keep proof of payment
- Submit your application before the closing date
Documents Needed When Applying to UCT
Besides paying the application fee, applicants must also submit the correct supporting documents.
These may include:
- Copy of South African ID or passport
- Grade 11 results, if currently in Grade 12
- Grade 12 results, where available
- Matric certificate or statement of results, if already completed matric
- Academic record, if previously studied at another institution
- Proof of payment, where required
- Additional documents required by the selected programme
Missing or unclear documents can delay your application.
Is the Application Fee the Same as Registration Fees?
No. The application fee and registration fees are different.
The application fee is paid when submitting your application. Registration fees, tuition fees, residence fees and other study-related fees may apply later if you are accepted and register as a UCT student.
Do not confuse the R100 or R300 application fee with full university study fees.
Common Payment Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants delay their own applications because of small payment mistakes.
Avoid these errors:
- Paying the wrong amount
- Using the wrong reference
- Forgetting to keep proof of payment
- Waiting until the closing date to pay
- Assuming payment means automatic acceptance
- Applying through unofficial websites
- Paying someone who claims they can guarantee admission
Always apply and pay through official UCT platforms.
Final Answer
The UCT application fee for 2027 is R100 for South African and SADC applicants and R300 for international applicants outside the SADC region.
The fee is non-refundable. Undergraduate applications for 2027 close on 31 July 2026, and applicants should apply early, pay the correct fee, upload all required documents and track their application status.
Paying the application fee does not guarantee admission. You must still meet UCT’s programme requirements and submit a complete application before the closing date.