Are you thinking of studying abroad? Whether you’re 17 or 24, thinking undergrad or postgrad, have a look at how you can apply as an international student to North-West University (NWU) in South Africa – one of the top-ranking universities in Africa, With flexible options (contact and distance learning) and a straightforward process, applying via the international admissions route at NWU is simpler than you might think.
Why Choose NWU?
Choosing a university is a big deal. If you pick NWU, you’re choosing a place that’s not just local but global in outlook.
- NWU is ranked among the top 8 universities in South Africa and among the top 16 in Africa according to the latest QS rankings.
- It also ranks in the top 4.1% of universities worldwide by the 2025 Global 2000 list (Centre for World University Rankings).
- Whether you’re after contact learning on campus or distance learning, NWU gives you that choice.
- There are eight faculties (Economic & Management Studies; Education; Engineering; Health Sciences; Humanities; Law; Natural & Agricultural Sciences; Theology, including the NWU Business School) and three campuses (Mahikeng, Potchefstroom, Vanderbijlpark).
- NWU functions as an integrated, multi-campus university that emphasises equity, redress, and globally competitive teaching and research.
- The university’s brand promises “dynamic, values-driven, excellence” and embodies values such as academic integrity, diversity, responsibility, and transparency.
So what does that mean in real terms for you as an international student? It means you’re joining a community that says: “We’re part of a global higher-education community. We want you to prepare your career, fulfil your potential.”
How to Apply via International Admissions at NWU
The international admissions process at NWU is designed to make it easy for you as a prospective international student. Here’s a step-by-step guide that covers both on-campus study and distance learning.
1. Pick Your Study Mode and Programme
First things first: decide whether you will study on campus in South Africa or via distance learning (online).
- Contact study: Go to one of NWU’s three campuses (Mahikeng, Potchefstroom, Vanderbijlpark). You’ll experience student life in person, participate in sports, and interact face-to-face with lecturers and peers.
- Distance learning: If relocating isn’t possible, you can study online – the same high-quality teaching, but from your home country. This is ideal for many international students who want a flexible route.
Then choose a programme under one of the eight faculties.
2. Check Requirements
Before you apply, you’ll want to confirm what’s needed. As a typical checklist:
- Certified copies of your academic transcripts or school results.
- Proof of English proficiency (for example, IELTS/TOEFL) if required.
- Valid passport.
- A study permit and documentation from the USAF
- A completed online application form.
- For postgraduate programmes: a motivation letter or research proposal.
Got questions? Check out our FAQs for international students.
3. Submit Your Application Online
This is where the process gets straightforward.
- Visit NWU’s international students page and find the online application portal.
- Create a profile and fill in your details, including personal information, previous qualifications, and your chosen study mode (on-campus or distance).
- Upload scanned copies of your documents.
- Pay the non-refundable application fee.
- You’ll receive a confirmation email with a reference number – keep this safe. The video notes that you should double-check everything before submitting because revisions can take time.
4. Study Visa (if you’re on campus)
If you’re applying for contact learning in South Africa, you’ll need a study visa. This is an integral part of the international admissions process. Documents you'll need include:
- Your official NWU acceptance letter (once offered a place).
- Proof of funds for tuition and living expenses.
- Proof of medical insurance valid in South Africa.
- Valid passport.
- Police clearance certificate.
- Proof of accommodation in South Africa.
If you’re doing distance learning, you won’t need a South African study visa.
5. Accept Your Offer & Register
Once you receive your offer (and your visa, if applicable), you accept and register. NWU’s International Office will help you with orientation and settling in – whether you arrive on campus or join online. The video emphasises the importance of making time for orientation, as it’s where you gain access to your online portal, timetable, student card (for on-campus students), and peer network.
Begin your online application process now.
Distance Learning vs On-Campus – What Works for You
For many international students, choosing between contact and distance learning can be tricky. Here’s a quick comparison:
On-campus study offers:
- Full student life: lectures, sports, societies, and in-person networking.
- Living abroad experience: accommodation, cultural immersion, campus environment.
- Easier integration into South African student life and access to campus facilities.
Distance learning offers:
- Flexibility: study from where you are, at your own pace, ideal for workers or those who can’t relocate.
- Same accreditation and quality as on-campus, since NWU is one of the top-ranking universities in Africa and values quality across modes.
- Lower relocation costs and easier scheduling around commitments in your home country.
Whether you pick online or in-person, you’ll still be part of a university that ranks among the top universities in South Africa, so your qualification will hold global weight.
Before You Arrive (or Log In)
To make your transition smoother, here are a few friendly tips for international students:
- Accommodation: If you’re on campus, reserve a residence early; if remote, check what resources are available.
- Budgeting: Plan your finances, including tuition, living costs, and travel if you’re relocating.
- Medical Insurance: On-campus international students must have approved cover.
- Orientation: Attend – even online orientation matters. You’ll meet fellow students, learn about your online platform if studying long-distance, or tour the campus if you’re there in person.
- Support Services: Whether you’re online or on site, NWU offers help with academic writing, career services, and technology support. The video highlights that accessing your student portal and getting settled early helps you hit the ground running.
Step Into Your Future at NWU
Want to join a higher education provider that’s serious about being a top-ranking university in Africa, and about making education accessible and meaningful? At NWU, you’ll find academic excellence, social responsiveness, a global network and a place where you can grow.
With the international admissions process laid out clearly and your study-mode choice in your hands (on-campus or distance), you’re just a few steps away from starting your journey.
