You want to apply for a postgraduate or undergraduate degree at North-West University (NWU), but need help figuring out where to start. There’s so much to do before walking through the doors of a recognised university that it feels overwhelming to begin the process. Looming deadlines and a busy study or work schedule make the university application process feel heavy.

At NWU, we want to help you compose a strong application and equip you with the tools and motivation to get it done early, so you can relax and prepare for the next step in your future career with the paperwork sorted.

6 Motivations for Submitting Your University Application Early

As the saying goes, ‘The early bird catches the worm’, and similarly, the early university applicant often secures placement and can better plan for their future.

Let’s unpack a few more motivations for getting cracking on the application portal:

#1 Increased Likelihood of Acceptance

While there are no spot guarantees, early application pools generally have a greater acceptance rate. Many universities accept more students during the early phases of the application cycle than last-minute applicants. This may be because early applicants demonstrate more motivation and preparedness.

#2 Proven Interest

Universities want to accept students who are genuinely interested in and excited about their programmes. Early university applications reveal the chosen varsity as your top choice, influencing admission officials.

#3 Less Stress

We could all do with fewer items on the to-do list, mainly when they include life-altering decisions like which tertiary institution to study with. If you apply early, you can relax knowing your status at the university of your choice and, if rejected, you still have time to apply to other places of learning before the application cycle deadline.

#4 Financial Aid

Tertiary education is expensive, and many students need it. Several universities align their bursary deadlines with early student application deadlines, ensuring you can be considered for the maximum funding. Knowing your bursary package early can also help you plan financially for your future.

#5 Time Management

The more time you have to ponder your essays and get good references and recommendations, the more polished your application can be, which can impact its quality.

#6 Better Planning

Students who know their status at a particular university can organise other aspects of their lives earlier including accommodation, registration for class, integration within the university community and allocation of financial resources.

How to Apply for an Undergraduate or Postgraduate Degree at NWU

The step-by-step process of applying for an undergraduate degree at NWU has already been extensively covered in this blog (or you can watch the video here).

Let’s unpack the information you need to bear in mind when applying for a master's or doctorate at NWU:

1. Begin at studies.nwu.ac.za/postgraduate-studies
2. Click on which courses are available
3. If your previous qualification was obtained at a non-South African institution, you must submit an evaluation certificate from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
4. If any required documents were issued in your maiden name, you must submit a certified marriage certificate alongside your university application.

5. Applying to study at a higher degree level is subject to an evaluation process. This process evaluates whether you meet the minimum requirements and determines whether NWU has the capacity to supervise your research topic adequately.
6. Some faculties expect you to identify a supervisor in your application process. Your application can only be processed after your supervisor agrees to work alongside you.
7. Create a university number or enter an existing number to begin the application.
8. You will be redirected to the ‘Application and Admission’ page
9. You will be required to submit the following documents:

9.1 Identify document or passport

9.2 Full tertiary academic history

9.3 Degree certificates

9.4 In some instances, a research proposal outline

10. All documents must be certified by a commissioner of oaths, attorney or university official.

If you’re still unsure about any step in the postgraduate application process, watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_ALdxjXSlQ&t=2s

7 Tips for Completing Your Application Forms

Read the following best practices before you begin completing your university application to NWU:

1. Read all instructions carefully, ensuring you thoroughly understand essay prompts, document formats, etc.
2. Stay organised and track the status of each component of your application to stay ahead of deadlines and ensure everything is included.
3. Be honest and ensure all information submitted is truthful and accurate. Double-check all numbers in academic records, personal details and the relevance of listed skills or extracurricular activities.

4. Highlight your strengths and tailor your essays to showcase relevant experience and skills that match the university's values and priorities.
5. Write thought-out motivational essays reflecting your personality, goals and aspirations.
6. Obtain strong references, including letters of recommendation from your previous workplace or university, that speak to your character and skills.
7. Proofread and edit your entire application to avoid any errors, typos and grammar mishaps. Ask a friend to review your work and point out any mistakes.

Don’t allow other matters to get in the way or let student application deadlines loom large in your life. Submit your university application to NWU today!