After submitting your university applications, the waiting period can be stressful. Knowing how to check your university application status online helps you stay informed, respond on time, and avoid missing important deadlines.
This guide explains where to check, what each status means, and what to do if there are delays or problems.
Why Checking Your Application Status Is Important
Universities in South Africa do not always send immediate SMS or email notifications. Regularly checking your application status helps you to:
- See if your application was received
- Track whether it’s under review
- Know when an offer has been made
- Respond before offers expire
Most universities manage applications online through student portals.
Where to Check Your University Application Status
All public universities are overseen by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and use official online systems to communicate outcomes.
1. University Student Portals
Each university has its own application or student portal where you can track your status.
You will usually need:
- Student number or application number
- ID number or passport number
- Password or PIN (created during application)
Once logged in, your status will be displayed on the dashboard.
2. Central Applications (Where Applicable)
Some institutions use shared or centralised systems, but most South African universities require you to check directly on their own portals.
Always rely on the official university website, not third-party platforms.
Common University Application Status Messages Explained
Here’s what most statuses mean:
● Application Received
Your application was successfully submitted, but has not yet been reviewed.
● In Progress / Under Review
The university is currently assessing your application. No action is required yet.
● Provisionally Accepted / Conditional Offer
You meet preliminary requirements, but the offer depends on:
- Final matric results
- Outstanding documents
You must usually accept the offer online.
● Firm Offer / Accepted
You have been officially accepted. Follow instructions for registration and payment.
● Waitlisted
You meet requirements, but space is limited. You may still receive an offer later.
● Unsuccessful
Your application was not successful for that specific programme. You may still qualify for other programmes.
When Do Universities Update Application Statuses?
Universities usually update statuses:
- After matric results are released (mid-January)
- In stages, not all at once
- Over several days or weeks
Delays are common due to high application volumes.
What to Do If Your Status Hasn’t Changed
If your status hasn’t updated:
- Be patient — this is normal
- Check at least once a day
- Make sure all required documents were uploaded
If weeks pass with no change, contact the university admissions office directly.
Important Tips When Checking Your Status
- Use a secure device and internet connection
- Take screenshots of important updates
- Check both email and portal messages
- Accept offers before deadlines
- Apply to multiple institutions to increase your chances
What If You Receive Multiple Offers?
If you receive more than one offer:
- Compare institutions and programmes carefully
- Accept only one final offer
- Decline others politely through the portal
Holding multiple offers can block opportunities for other students.
Avoid Scams and Fake Messages
Be cautious of:
- Messages asking for upfront “acceptance fees”
- Links not from official university domains
- Social media “agents” claiming to speed up applications
Universities do not charge to check application statuses.
Final Thoughts
Checking your university application status online is a simple but essential step in your post-matric journey. Stay proactive, check official portals regularly, and respond promptly to offers.
Whether your answer comes immediately or takes time, remember — there are many paths to success, and one application outcome does not define your future.