Open Days in the Western Cape

that most public university open days across South Africa follow, well before application deadlines close later in the year.

An open day is where you get real answers, not a brochure summary — ask lecturers about APS score cut-offs, matric subject requirements, residence availability, and how NSFAS funding actually gets paid out once you're registered. At a university like UWC or CPUT, staff on the day can also tell you which faculties are oversubscribed, which matters more than the prospectus lets on when you're weighing your chances of getting a place.

TVET colleges in this province — including Boland, College of Cape Town, False Bay, Northlink, South Cape and West Coast — run open days too, but don't expect months of notice. They typically confirm a date only one to three weeks ahead, usually on Facebook rather than on a formal website, so it's worth following a college's page directly if you're serious about a trade or technical qualification. Private colleges with a presence in the Western Cape, and national online schools, tend to run open days and taster sessions on a rolling basis throughout the year instead of one big seasonal push.

Before you go, check that any private institution is DHET registered, and if nursing is the goal, confirm the college is SANC-accredited. Dates and venues do shift, so always confirm directly with the institution's official page before you plan a trip — and remember that while most open days are free to attend, a few ask you to register a headcount beforehand.

Browse the upcoming open days in the Western Cape listed below.