First-Year Survival Guide

First-year university students in South Africa face an exciting yet overwhelming transition; registration deadlines loom, scams target the vulnerable, and new campuses bring safety challenges. Early preparation ensures a smooth start to 2026 academic life. Follow verified university portals and official guides to thrive.

Secure your spot by registering immediately upon receiving your acceptance; most universities like UJ, NMU, and TUT have portals active now, with full processes mid-to-late January 2026. Delaying risks losing your place, as spots fill fast post-late inquiries; aim for online sessions or venues by February 8, latest. Complete steps like module selection, fee deposits (registration fee for most), and residence bookings first via student portals; international students need pre-clearance for visas and aid. Confirm NSFAS status early, as lectures start February 9; missing deadlines means starting late or deferring.

Scammers prey on first-years via fake SMS, WhatsApp offers for "guaranteed spots," or demands for upfront fee- universities never request payments this way. Stick to official sites and emails from verified domains; ignore unsolicited calls promising late apps for R500-R2,000. Report fraud to SAIA or campus security, and use two-factor authentication on portals. Verify all communications through helplines like the institution's call centre, real aid comes post-acceptance, not pre-payment.

Unfamiliar campuses mean sticking to groups during orientations (e.g., NMU's January 26-30 sessions), downloading safety apps like Safecampus, and noting emergency numbers (10111 national, campus security). Register vehicles and get student cards on-site; avoid walking alone at night, especially residences opening late January. Share locations with family, attend safety inductions, and report issues via portals—big cities like Joburg or Cape Town amplify risks, so use shuttles and lit paths. Build networks fast for mutual support.