Universities That Offer Bridging Courses in South Africa (2025 Guide). In South Africa, thousands of students leave high school each year with aspirations of pursuing a university degree, only to discover they don’t meet the minimum requirements for their desired course. For many, this can feel like a dead end, but thankfully, bridging courses in South Africa offer a second chance at success.
Whether you’ve struggled with your matric results, didn’t qualify for university admission, or want to improve your understanding of certain academic subjects, bridging programmes provide a practical and accessible path forward.
What Are Bridging Courses?
Bridging courses are short-term academic programmes designed to help students close the gap between their current academic level and the entry requirements of their desired university course. These courses are particularly useful for students who:
- Did not meet the minimum university entry requirements
- Failed one or more matric subjects
- Need additional academic support in specific areas
- Want to improve their understanding of subjects related to their future degree
Matric bridging courses, for example, allow students to redo selected matric subjects to improve their marks, making them eligible to reapply for their preferred degree or diploma programmes.
Duration and Structure of Bridging Courses
Most bridging courses in South Africa run between 6 months and 12 months, depending on the institution and the subject area. They typically include a combination of:
- Academic coursework
- Practical assignments
- Examinations
- Individual tutoring or academic support sessions
The primary goal is to prepare students for mainstream university courses by reinforcing foundational knowledge and improving academic performance.
Benefits of Taking a Bridging Course
Choosing to enrol in a bridging course can unlock several long-term benefits:
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Second chance at admission | You can qualify for university even if you didn’t initially meet the criteria. |
| Improved academic foundation | These courses help you gain a better understanding of your chosen field. |
| Boosted self-confidence | Academic improvement can boost confidence and motivation. |
| Flexible learning paths | Some courses are available part-time or via distance learning. |
| Access to career opportunities | Once admitted to university, more career options become available. |
Universities That Offer Bridging Courses in South Africa
Several public universities in South Africa have designed bridging programmes to help academically underprepared students gain access to higher education. Here are the top universities that offer bridging courses:
1. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Wits offers Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECPs) in Engineering, Commerce, and the Sciences. These are designed for students who narrowly miss the admission requirements but show academic potential.
2. University of Limpopo
The University of Limpopo provides bridging programmes in Science, Agriculture, and Health Sciences, aimed at uplifting learners from disadvantaged backgrounds.
3. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
TUT offers bridging courses and foundation programmes that prepare students for diplomas in Engineering, Information Technology, and Management Sciences.
4. Stellenbosch University
Stellenbosch has an extended degree programme to assist students with additional academic support in the first year.
5. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
UKZN offers foundation and access programmes through its Centre for Science Access. These are focused on disciplines such as Health Sciences, Engineering, and Agriculture.
6. Durban University of Technology (DUT)
DUT provides access programmes aimed at students who have passed matric but don’t meet the university’s standard requirements.
7. University of Pretoria (UP)
UP runs the Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP) for students in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, as well as Engineering.
8. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
UJ’s bridging courses are available in areas like Engineering, Education, and Economic and Financial Sciences. The university also offers a Foundation Programme in Science.
9. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
CPUT provides academic development programmes to students who don’t meet the formal entry requirements but show potential.
10. North-West University (NWU)
NWU offers University Preparation Programmes (UnivPrep) in Mathematics, Physics, and other essential subjects.
11. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
NMU offers Access Programmes that integrate bridging with first-year university learning, especially in Science and Technology.
12. Rhodes University
Rhodes has extended studies for students who come from under-resourced schools, offering additional academic support.
TVET Colleges Also Offer Bridging Programmes
Apart from universities, many TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges across South Africa also provide bridging courses and skills programmes.
These are ideal for students who:
- Wish to gain practical skills
- Want to improve their National Certificate (Vocational) results
- Are planning to enter the workforce or start their own business
- Hope to meet minimum entry requirements for further studies at universities
TVET colleges often focus on practical fields such as:
- Engineering
- Business Studies
- Information Technology
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Health and Safety
How to Apply for a Bridging Course in South Africa
The application process for a bridging course is typically straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Identify your target university or TVET college
- Check their official website for available bridging programmes
- Download or collect the application form
- Submit required documents such as:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Academic records
- Motivation letter (if needed)
- Wait for feedback – if accepted, you’ll receive orientation information
Things to Keep in Mind
- Bridging courses are not free – although more affordable than mainstream degrees, they often have tuition costs. NSFAS may fund certain extended curriculum programmes at public universities, but this must be confirmed.
- Not all universities offer every course as a bridging programme, so explore multiple options before deciding.
- It’s important to understand that taking a bridging course adds time to your overall study plan. However, the long-term benefits often outweigh the additional year.
Concluion
If you didn’t get into your desired course or university, don’t lose hope. Bridging courses in South Africa are designed to help students recover academically and gain a second chance at higher education. With hard work, determination, and proper planning, you can still pursue your dream qualification and unlock your future career path.
