Wits University welcomes new first-year students for the 2026 academic year. If you have received a firm offer, it is essential to follow the instructions carefully to secure your place, complete registration, and access all student services. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for accepting offers, registering online, activating student email, and navigating campus procedures.
Receiving Your Firm Offer
Once a firm offer is made, you will receive:
An SMS notification confirming your admission.
A firm offer letter sent to your email.
Follow the instructions in the firm offer letter to proceed with acceptance and registration. Ensure you regularly check both SMS and email to avoid missing deadlines.
Accepting Your Offer and Completing Registration Online
All first-year students must use the Wits University Self-Service Portal: https://self-service.wits.ac.za.
Steps include:
Accepting the offer: Follow the instructions in the attached Acceptance Guide.
Completing the student contract: Refer to the Student Contract Step-by-Step Guide.
Registering online: Complete registration before the deadline specified in your firm offer letter.
Fee Payment Guidelines:
South African students: Pay the first fee installment before registration. If awaiting NSFAS confirmation, you may postpone the payment. Tuition fees must be paid in full by 30 June 2026.
International students: Pay 75% of the tuition and related costs before registration. Clearance from the International Students Office and Fees Office is required. Full tuition must be settled by 30 June 2026.
Refer to the First Fee Payment Postponement Guide for detailed instructions.
Activating Wits Student Email and Accessing Services
All students must activate their Wits email to access essential services, including Gateway to Success and Ulwazi. Activate your email here: https://www.wits.ac.za/mywits/student-email/.
Gateway to Success (GTS):
Programme dates: 20 January 2026 – 02 February 2026
Designed to help first-year students adjust to university life, understand academic requirements, and access support services.
Waitlisted and Deferred Students
If placed on a waitlist or deferred status:
Wits University will monitor program availability daily.
You will be notified via SMS if a firm offer becomes available.
Regularly check the Self-Service Portal for status updates.
Students with Disabilities
Students requiring additional support should contact the Disability Rights Unit (DRU) for assistance. Support includes access accommodations and guidance to ensure a smooth start to your studies.
Firm Offer Acceptance and Registration Deadlines
Failure to accept your firm offer and complete registration within the specified timeline will result in forfeiting your place.
The university may consider reinstating expired offers under exceptional circumstances and based on availability.
Online vs. On-Campus Registration
Online registration: Recommended using the Self-Service Portal with the step-by-step guide.
On-campus registration: Available for students needing assistance, curriculum counselling, or support to complete registration. Follow deadlines in your firm offer letter.
Post-Registration Campus Procedures
After registration, you must complete the following on campus:
Collect your “Kudu” student card from any Kudu Card Office.
Apply for a parking permit via the Self-Service Portal, if required, and collect the sticker from the Parking Office.
Provide valid identification, such as a South African ID, passport, or driver’s licence.
Gateway to Success for First-Year Students
The Gateway to Success programme provides guidance, academic support, and resources to help first-year students settle into university life. Participation is strongly recommended to ensure a smooth transition.
Contact Information & Support
For queries or support, students may:
Call: 011 717 1888
Submit an online query: www.wits.ac.za/askwits

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