The application outcomes process was concluded shortly after the official release of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) results on 13 January 2026, marking a key milestone in UMP’s annual admissions cycle.
The university received more than 124 000 applications for the 2026 academic year, reflecting growing confidence in its academic offering, institutional reputation and student-centred approach.
In line with the Department of Higher Education and Training’s approved enrolment plan, UMP has 3 969 spaces available for first-year undergraduate students. This intake forms part of the university’s carefully managed growth strategy, which balances access, academic quality and institutional sustainability.
UMP Vice-Chancellor Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa said the steady rise in applications and enrolment numbers underscores the institution’s strong growth trajectory and strategic focus.
“Based on our enrolment targets, we will increase our student enrolment from 11 885 in 2025 to 13 077 in 2026. This growth is significant for our institutional development and academic excellence as we pursue our strategic objectives, guided by our Vision 2030,” said Professor Meyiwa.
The Vice-Chancellor added that the university remains committed to creating an enabling environment that supports student success, innovation and meaningful societal impact.
UMP Director of Stakeholder Liaison and Communication, Mr Tlangelani Ubisi, says the application process was concluded in line with national timelines and enrolment planning frameworks.
“The University of Mpumalanga has completed the process of releasing application outcomes to prospective first-time entering students. This process was finalised after the official release of the NSC results on 13 January 13 2026.”
Mr Ubisi further mentioned that while demand remained exceptionally high, admissions were strictly governed by the Department of Higher Education and Training’s approved enrolment plan.
“In line with the DHET-approved enrolment plan, UMP has 3,969 spaces available for the undergraduate first-year intake,” he said.
As part of the 2026 admissions process, UMP successfully registered students from 26 to 30 January 2026, welcoming a new cohort of students to the institution. The in-person registration period ensured that admitted first-year students received the necessary academic and administrative support as they prepared to begin their university journey.
With demand for places continuing to grow, UMP encourages prospective students to view the institution not only as a gateway to higher education, but as a university that nurtures talent, develops leadership and prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to society.
Established in 2014, the University of Mpumalanga is one of South Africa’s youngest universities. Over the past decade, UMP has steadily expanded its academic portfolio, infrastructure and research capacity while maintaining a strong emphasis on student support.
As the university looks ahead to the 2026 academic year, the strong response from applicants affirms UMP’s evolving position as a preferred destination for higher learning within South Africa’s higher education landscape.
Story by Lisa Thabethe. Pictures supplied. Copyright © UMP.