Rain couldn’t dampen spirits at UCT’s packed 2025 Open Day

Cape Town was chilly with moderate rainfall on Saturday, 12 April, but that didn’t deter hundreds of prospective students and their families from converging on the University of Cape Town (UCT) for the university’s much-anticipated 2025 Open Day.

Despite the wintry weather – which caused significant traffic congestion and led to a few programme alterations – the event was a resounding success. With an extensive line-up of sessions, stalls and resources across upper campus, middle campus and the Faculty of Health Sciences, the event achieved its mission to allay fears, offer guidance, and provide essential information to future students and their support systems.

One of the most popular sessions was a presentation on the admissions process by UCT’s Director of Admissions Gcinumzi Haduse. Addressing a lecture theatre packed to the rafters, Haduse said the aim was to “dispel myths and provide clarity”.

“We want to make this journey less intimidating for everyone – whether you're a parent, a Grade 12 learner, a Grade 11 starting to think ahead, or someone returning to study,” he said.

“UCT is a national and international university. We treat all applicants equally.”

Haduse addressed a common misconception that UCT gives preference to Western Cape applicants. “Let me be very clear: UCT is a national and international university. We treat all applicants equally,” he emphasised. “We receive strong applications from Gauteng, KZN, the Eastern Cape, and even abroad. The playing field is level. What we look for is academic excellence – wherever it comes from.”

He also walked attendees through application deadlines, the points-based grading system, required academic results, and some common mistakes that applicants make. In addition, he explained the importance of the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) in the selection process.

“Competition is tough at UCT. We receive over 30 000 applications, but can only accept around 4 500 first-year students. That’s why the process is rigorous, and based purely on merit,” Haduse said. “If you’ve got your eye on UCT, and we offer the course you’re passionate about – make us your first choice. We’ll walk with you every step of the way.”

Funding the future

For many families, the next big concern after admissions is financing their education. UCT Student Financial Aid Director Tasneem Salasa led a well-attended session outlining available financial support, including the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and funding options for the ‘missing middle’ income group.

NSFAS offers comprehensive bursaries for students with a gross household income of up to R350 000 per year. This covers tuition, a capped accommodation allowance of R55 000, a book allowance, and living allowances.

However, Salasa acknowledged that the accommodation cap creates a funding gap, especially for students in residences or private housing.

“That’s why we encourage students to apply for additional funding. There are many funders that provide partial or full support. Crowdfunding platforms like Phoenix, for example, have helped students raise over R40 million,” she noted.

Students from households earning between R350 000 and R600 000 – the ‘missing middle’ – can access a government loan scheme, although 70% of that funding is reserved for students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

Salasa emphasised that academic performance is key to retaining funding. “Your success is linked to your funding. You must pass at least 60% of your courses. So, use every academic support resource the university has to offer,” she urged.

More than just a place to stay

With over 7 000 students living in UCT’s over 30 residences, campus housing plays a key role in student life. Frank Karigambe, co-ordinator for programme and governance support in the Residence Life Division, said that UCT’s holistic, transformative approach to residence life includes academic support, mental health services, and mentorship.

“Every residence ensures that every student stepping in has a sense of belonging. The goal is to create a supportive environment that helps students thrive, from day one through to graduation.”

Mark Bashe, Manager for Sport & Recreation in the Department of Student Affairs, outlined the university’s approach to student well-being and achievement beyond the classroom.

“Our mission is to foster sporting excellence, academic achievement, and personal growth; because at the end of the day, the student is not just here for academics.”

UCT supports 32 active sports codes, with judo soon to become the 33rd. In 2024 alone, over 6 600 students participated in local, national and international competitions, including events hosted by University Sport South Africa (USSA) and the Fédération Internationale du Sport Universitaire (FISU) – the ‘Olympics’ of university sport. “Last year, we were the best university in rowing, e-sports, and sailing,” said Bashe proudly.

On the day of the Open Day, the UCT Women’s Football Club hosted champions Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies in the Hollywoodbets Super League, while the Ikey Tigers were preparing for the Varsity Cup final on Monday evening against long-time rivals Maties – which they won.

Voices from the ground

Despite the rain, spirits remained high.

Jade Samuels, a learner from Evolve Academy, described her experience as both enjoyable and informative. “It was very nice walking around ... all the lectures were helpful. I especially enjoyed the chemical engineering session – it really helped me understand what’s required to succeed.”

Katherine Smith from Paarl said she arrived with many questions, and left with answers. “I take Maths Literacy, and thought all doors were shut for me at UCT. But I was happy to learn that I can still pursue programmes like psychology. There are lots of options available.”

“The people we spoke to were very helpful.”

Zimbabwe-born Miriam Siwela, who brought her niece Trish Mzokomba, said the event reaffirmed her positive view of UCT – her other niece is currently studying law here. “It took us a while to figure out what’s happening, but once we found the map it was much easier. Knowing my niece, I think she’ll fit in well here. As we were walking around, I said to her, ‘I see you here next year, girl.’”