2024 University Registration Now Open For New & Returning Students. As the 2024 academic year approaches, Minister of Higher Education, Blade Nzimande, provided insights into the department’s preparedness during a media briefing on Tuesday afternoon. The focus was on the state of readiness, reactions to the 2023 matric results, and NSFAS-related matters.
Impressive Matric Results Set the Stage
The matric results, released on January 19, showcased a historic 82.9% pass rate. With this achievement, a majority of matriculants are poised to enter higher education institutions in the upcoming academic year.
Confirmation of Successful 2023 Academic Year Completion
Minister Nzimande affirmed that South African universities successfully concluded the 2023 academic year as scheduled.
Registration Details for New and Returning Students
Registration for returning students began on January 2 and will continue until mid-February. First-time entering new students started their registration process on January 15, with the deadline set for February 15.
Monitoring Tools for Ensuring Efficiency
In response to potential challenges during the registration period, Nzimande announced the activation of an operations room and observatory. These tools will facilitate timely reporting and discussions, covering various aspects such as registration, readiness for teaching and learning, student academic support, management, stakeholder relations, and financial status.
Enrollments in Scarce Skills Fields
A total of 270,000 university applications were received for 2024, with 67,929 new enrollments anticipated in scarce skills fields. Minister Nzimande provided a breakdown of these enrollments across various disciplines.
- Engineering: 18,541
- Life and Physical Sciences: 16,415
- Animal Sciences: 614
- Veterinary Sciences: 206
- Human Health: 9,455
- Teacher Education: 22,698
Late Applications Due to Delayed Matric Results
Minister Nzimande acknowledged the late release of matric results and highlighted universities offering a late application period. The list includes Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Durban University of Technology, Mangosuthu University of Technology, Rhodes University, Tshwane University of Technology, University of Fort Hare, University of Zululand, and Walter Sisulu University.
Central Applications Clearing House (CACH) for Additional Opportunities
For those seeking guidance beyond traditional university applications, the Central Applications Clearing House (CACH) offers career advice, referrals to other opportunities, and artisan development possibilities. CACH services for 2024 will be open from 8 am on January 26, 2024, until March 31, 2024.
Accessing CACH for Career Guidance
Applicants can access CACH through various channels, including:
- Website: CACH
- Call Center Number: 0860 690 722
- Facebook: CACH_SA
CACH is a free service aiming to match applicants’ National Senior Certificate exam results with study preferences and available opportunities. Institutions will access CACH from January 30 to October 30.