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Transferring to UP from another university

Transferring to UP from Another University: Transfer Guide 2023/2024

If you’re considering transferring to UP from another university, this guide will help you understand the process, requirements, and deadlines. The University of Pretoria (UP) provides opportunities for students to transfer into various degrees, provided they meet specific academic and administrative requirements.


Basic Principles for Transferring to UP from Another University

When transferring to UP, the following principles guide the process:

  • Academic Performance: To be eligible, you must have passed all modules in your first semester or first year. This is particularly important if you wish to transfer into a degree with higher entrance requirements, such as degrees with advanced mathematics.
  • Space Limitations: Some programmes at the University of Pretoria have limited capacity. In these cases, students are accepted based on academic merit.
  • One Transfer Rule: Only one transfer is allowed during your undergraduate studies, whether it’s between UP faculties or from another university. Choose carefully to ensure your choice aligns with your long-term goals.

When Can You Transfer to UP from Another University?

The University of Pretoria determines transfer eligibility based on your current degree’s NSC requirements and your performance:

  1. Same NSC Requirements: If your current degree has the same NSC requirements as your target degree, you may transfer at the end of your first semester. For example, many BCom degrees at UP share generic first-semester modules, making mid-year transfers easier.
  2. Higher NSC Requirements: If the target degree has higher entrance requirements, such as BCom (Accounting Sciences), you will only be eligible to transfer after completing your first year.
  3. Specific Cases: Degrees like BCom (Accounting Sciences) have stricter requirements. For instance, you’ll need to pass particular modules and maintain a high cumulative grade point average (CGPA).

How to Apply for Transferring to UP

The University of Pretoria has different procedures for mid-year and year-end transfers. Ensure you follow the correct steps based on your timeline:

  1. After the First Semester:
    • Visit the EMS website on the UP portal and download the relevant application form.
    • Fill it in, sign it, scan it, and email it to ems@up.ac.za.
  2. At the End of the Year:
    • Log in to the Student Portal under the “Student Centre” tab.
    • Select the “Internal Applications” link and follow the steps for submission.
    • Applications for internal transfers must be submitted by 30 November.
  3. External Applicants: If you’re applying to UP from another university, refer to the official University of Pretoria website for application deadlines and procedures.

Key Rules for Transferring to UP from Another University

The University of Pretoria has specific regulations for students transferring from other institutions:

  • Good Conduct Certificate: You must provide a certificate of good conduct and a comprehensive academic record from your current institution.
  • Credit Transfer: UP may grant credit for modules completed at another university, but only if the content aligns with the target degree’s curriculum. This is especially relevant for first-year modules.
  • Completion Timeline: Students transferring to UP are required to complete their degree in a maximum of four years.

Important Notes About Transferring to UP

If you’re considering transferring to UP from another university, keep the following in mind:

  • Students dismissed from their previous institution due to poor academic performance will not be considered for admission to the University of Pretoria.
  • Some degrees, such as BCom Accounting Sciences, may require you to start from the first year at UP due to unique curriculum requirements, even if you’ve completed similar modules at your current institution.
  • You must have passed at least 60% of all modules during your current degree to be eligible for a transfer.

Contact Information for Transferring to UP

For more details on transferring to UP, visit the University of Pretoria’s official website or contact the relevant faculty’s admissions office. Make sure to familiarise yourself with all requirements and deadlines to ensure a smooth application process.


By meeting the necessary academic criteria and following this guide, you’ll be ready to successfully transfer to the University of Pretoria and continue your academic journey. Good luck with your transfer!


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