Students from Gauteng who intend to study at the University of Cape Town in 2026 must complete registration between 19 January and 13 February 2026 to secure their academic place for the year. Registration is a compulsory annual process that confirms enrolment, enables access to student systems, and allows participation in classes when the first semester begins on 16 February.
The process applies to first-year, returning, postgraduate, and international students. According to the university, students who fail to register within their allocated faculty timelines risk delayed access to courses, funding interruptions, or deferred study.
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Registration Confirms Study Status and Access to Academic Systems
UCT has emphasised that admission alone does not make a student active. Registration is the formal step that places a student on the academic record for the year.
Once registration is completed, students gain:
- Access to academic programmes and online learning platforms
- Entry to libraries, residences, and campus facilities
- Eligibility for bursaries, NSFAS, and other funding streams
- Formal recognition of course credits for the 2026 academic year
- Supervisor allocation for postgraduate research students
Students with unresolved administrative, financial, or immigration holds will not be able to proceed with registration until those issues are cleared.
University Of Cape Town: Registration Opens 19 January
While registration officially opens in mid-January, UCT has confirmed that timelines differ across faculties and programmes.
Key registration dates for 2026
- Online registration: 19 January – 13 February 2026
- Assisted (in-person) registration: 21 January – 7 February 2026
- First-year campus reception: 31 January – 2 February 2026
- Orientation programme: 2 – 13 February 2026
- Start of semester one: 16 February 2026
The university has urged students to consult faculty-specific notices, as some programmes close registration earlier than the general deadline.
Faculties Manage Registration Separately
Each faculty at UCT manages its own registration process, including support schedules and academic advising availability.
Registration information is published for students in the following faculties:
- Commerce
- Engineering & the Built Environment
- Health Sciences
- Humanities
- Law
- Science
Faculty notices outline whether registration is conducted fully online or requires in-person academic consultation. Students enrolled in structured or professionally regulated programmes may be subject to additional checks before registration is finalised.
Students Must Clear Financial and Administrative Holds First
Before attempting to register, students are required to ensure that all conditions on their student record have been met.
According to the university, common registration blocks include:
- Outstanding tuition or residence fees
- Incomplete admission documentation
- Pending financial aid decisions
- Immigration compliance requirements for international students
All holds are visible on the Student Administration System (PeopleSoft). UCT has indicated that students should resolve these issues early to avoid congestion during peak registration periods.
Registration Takes Place Online. In-Person Support Available on Campus
UCT continues to prioritise online registration for students with straightforward course selections. This allows students, including those based in Gauteng, to complete registration remotely before travelling to Cape Town.
In-person assisted registration is available on Upper Campus for students who require:
- Academic advising
- Programme clarification
- Support with course selection
Assisted registration operates on faculty-specific schedules and is not mandatory for all students.
Course Selection Errors May Affect Funding and Academic Progression
During registration, students must select courses that align with their approved curriculum and credit limits.
UCT has warned that incorrect course choices may result in:
- Delayed funding disbursements
- Ineligibility for certain modules
- Academic progression issues later in the year
Students uncertain about course requirements are advised to consult faculty advisors before finalising registration.
First-Year Students Required to Attend Reception and Orientation
UCT has confirmed that all new undergraduate students are expected to participate in first-year onboarding activities.
First-Year Campus Reception
31 January – 2 February 2026
This event introduces students to campus facilities, faculty, staff, and student support structures.
Orientation Programme
2 – 13 February 2026
Orientation covers academic expectations, student systems, health and wellness services, and student life.
The university has described orientation as a key component in supporting student transition and retention.
International Students Face Additional Pre-Registration Requirements
International students must complete a separate pre-registration process through the International Office before academic registration can proceed.
This includes:
- Submission of valid study permits or visas
- Clearance of immigration and fee-related holds
- Confirmation of compliant health insurance
UCT has stated that students who delay this process may not be able to register within standard timelines.
What This Means for Gauteng Students Planning to Study at UCT
For students based in Gauteng, the registration process carries logistical and financial implications beyond the academic calendar.
Many students will be arranging accommodation, travel, and funding while completing registration remotely. Online registration allows Gauteng-based students to secure their academic status before relocating, while assisted registration provides on-campus support once they arrive.
Funding-dependent students should note that registration is often required before bursaries or allowances are released. Any delay may affect residence placement, class access, or participation during the opening weeks of the semester.
Support Services Activated During Peak Registration Period
UCT has indicated that additional student support services will be available during the registration window.
These include:
- Student Systems Support for technical issues
- Faculty academic advising offices
- ICT services for login and access problems
Extended support hours are typically implemented during high-volume registration periods.
Key Questions Students Are Asking About UCT Registration in 2026
Can students register after 13 February 2026?
Late registration may be permitted in limited cases, subject to faculty approval.
Is it compulsory to be on campus to register?
No. Most students can complete registration online.
What happens if a student has a financial hold?
Registration will remain blocked until the issue is resolved with the finance or financial aid office.
Do postgraduate students need to register every year?
Yes. Annual registration is required to maintain an active student status.
Classes Begin Mid-February as Faculties Finalise Enrolment Numbers
UCT has confirmed that lectures commence on 16 February 2026, with faculties expected to finalise enrolment numbers during the first weeks of the semester. There is no blanket grace period for unregistered students once teaching begins.
Further faculty-specific notices and system updates are expected as registration progresses, particularly for high-demand programmes and funding-dependent students.
