Stellenbosch University 2027 Admissions Guide: BDatSci, Faculty Deadlines and APS

Planning to apply to Stellenbosch University for the 2027 academic year? This comprehensive guide provides essential information regarding application deadlines, specific requirements for popular programmes like the Bachelor of Data Science (BDatSci), how Stellenbosch University calculates your admission scores (APS), and other crucial details for a successful application.

Key Dates for 2027 Applications

It is crucial to mark these important dates in your calendar as Stellenbosch University generally does not accept late applications for its undergraduate programmes or residences.

• Undergraduate and Residence Applications: Applications for both undergraduate studies and university residences opened on 1 April 2026 and will close on 31 July 2026. Due to limited space and high competition, it is highly recommended to apply for residence concurrently with your academic application.
• Financial Assistance Applications: If you require financial aid, the application window for 2027 runs from 1 to 31 October 2026.
• National Benchmark Tests (NBTs): NBTs are a requirement for applicants to the Faculty of Law, as well as for students from School of Tomorrow, Online School, IEB International Secondary Certificate (ISC), and American High School Diploma applicants. These tests must be written by the end of September. For Faculty of Law applicants, the deadline is earlier, by the end of July.

Bachelor of Data Science (BDatSci) Admissions

The Bachelor of Data Science (BDatSci) is a flagship interdisciplinary degree at Stellenbosch University, offered across four faculties: Economic and Management Sciences, Science, AgriSciences, and Arts and Social Sciences. Prospective BDatSci students should apply through the University's online portal under the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences.

BDatSci Admission Requirements:

To be considered for the BDatSci programme, applicants need to meet specific academic criteria:

• A National Senior Certificate (NSC) aggregate of 80% (excluding Life Orientation).
• A minimum of 80% for Mathematics.
• A minimum of either Afrikaans Home Language 60%, English Home Language 60%, Afrikaans First Additional Language 75%, or English First Additional Language 75%.

Provisional acceptance letters for BDatSci, based on Grade 11 marks, are typically sent to qualifying students after the application process officially closes. Focal areas within the BDatSci degree, such as Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Statistical Learning, and Geoinformatics, are chosen closer to the start of lectures in 2027, once Grade 12 results are known, and not during the initial application phase.

General Undergraduate Admission Requirements and APS

Stellenbosch University uses a specific method to evaluate applicants. It is important to note that merely meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee acceptance, as many programmes are highly competitive and have limited space.

APS Calculation:

Stellenbosch University calculates an admission score known as a percentage aggregate (also referred to as NSC average or TPT). This score is based on your best six National Senior Certificate (NSC) subjects, excluding Life Orientation. To calculate your percentage aggregate, the university considers your highest mark in either English or Afrikaans, plus your five best 20-credit subjects (excluding Life Orientation), and then divides this total by six.

Applicants are permitted to apply for up to three undergraduate programmes.

Application Process and Fees

Applying to Stellenbosch University involves a few key steps and document submissions.

Application Fee:

A non-refundable application fee is required:

• R100 for South African citizens, permanent residents, refugee status holders, asylum seekers, and diplomatic status holders.
• R400 for international applicants.

It is worth noting that some South African applicants from specific school quantiles may be exempt from paying this fee.

Required Documents:

Ensure you have the following documents ready for your application:

• A certified copy of your South African ID.
• A certified copy of your Senior Certificate/NSC (if already obtained).
• A certified Grade 11 report (for current Grade 12 students).
• Your Grade 12 June report (if available at the time of application).
• Your NBT results (if applicable to your chosen programme or background).

Conclusion

Stellenbosch University offers a world-class education, and securing a place requires careful planning and timely application. Be sure to submit your undergraduate and residence applications between 1 April and 31 July 2026. Pay close attention to the specific academic requirements for your desired programme, particularly for competitive degrees like the BDatSci. Remember to apply for financial assistance between 1 and 31 October 2026 if needed, and ensure all required documents are certified and submitted correctly. Good luck with your 2027 application to Stellenbosch University!