Nelson Mandela University

About NMU

Nelson Mandela University was formed through the merger of the University of Port Elizabeth, PE Technikon and Vista University's PE campus, and was later renamed in honour of South Africa's first democratically elected president, with several campuses across Gqeberha and one in George.

The university is known for marine and coastal research given its location on Algoa Bay, alongside broad offerings in engineering, business, education and the arts. Its Ocean Sciences Campus is among the most advanced marine research facilities in the Southern Hemisphere.

Nelson Mandela University has leaned into its coastal identity, with several of its campuses offering direct beach access and a strong marine biology and environmental sciences culture that's distinct from most other South African universities.

Why students choose NMU

• Advanced marine and ocean sciences research facilities
• Named in honour of Nelson Mandela
• Campuses across Gqeberha and George

Fields of study

• Business & Economic Sciences
• Education
• Engineering, the Built Environment & IT
• Health Sciences
• Humanities
• Science

What you'll need to apply

Every South African public university sets its own admission point score and subject requirements per programme, so the details below are general guidance rather than NMU-specific rules — always confirm exact requirements on the official site before applying.

• A National Senior Certificate (NSC) that meets the minimum admission point score for your chosen programme.
• Specific subject and mark requirements, which vary by faculty — competitive programmes like medicine or engineering typically set higher thresholds.
• An online application through the university's own portal, usually opening the year before you intend to start.
• Supporting documents such as certified copies of your ID and academic records, and proof of application fee payment where applicable.