The University of Pretoria PGCE Application 2026 Opening Date is 1 April 2025. The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is a professional qualification that prepares graduates for a teaching career.

To apply, candidates must hold an accredited bachelor’s degree or a 360-credit diploma verified by the Department of Higher Education and Training.

The programme integrates academic coursework with practical teaching experience in partner schools, supported by qualified mentors and lecturers.

University Of Pretoria PGCE Application 2026 Opening Date: Admission Requirements and Programme Structure

  • Accredited bachelor’s degree or a 360-credit diploma required.
  • Integrated modules include both theory and teaching practice.
  • School placements involve a three-week observation period followed by an extended teaching period of three to eight weeks.
  • Placements are in Pretoria-based partner schools.

Application Dates for 2026

  • South African citizens: 1 April 2025 – 31 August 2025
  • Non-South African citizens: 1 April 2025 – 31 August 2025

Applications must be submitted online through the official University of Pretoria portal. Applicants can track the status of their application once submitted.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Obtain Information

  • Review admission requirements and confirm eligibility.
  • Check the programme fees (includes tuition and study materials; excludes prescribed books).
  • Review curriculum and learning modules to ensure alignment with your career goals.

Step 2: Apply Online

  • Submit your application within the official application dates.
  • Select whether you are a new applicant or a current UP student.
  • Monitor your application outcome on the student portal.

Step 3: Pre-Registration

  • Access the Faculty website for documents such as the Programme Guide, Registration Information, and Timetables.
  • Complete your study contract on the portal.
  • Pay the initial registration fee or submit a bursary letter to externalbursaries@up.ac.za.
  • International students must contact isd@up.ac.za to remove the international block.

Step 4: Register

  • Register your modules according to the PGCE programme curriculum via the student portal.

Step 5: Access clickUP

  • Use clickUP to prepare for classes, complete pre-class tests, and access assignments.

Step 6: Attend Classes

  • Attend compulsory lectures as scheduled. Timetables are available on clickUP.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. When is the University Of Pretoria PGCE Application 2026 Opening Date?
The application opens on 1 April 2025 and closes on 31 August 2025 for both South African and international applicants.

2. What qualifications are required for PGCE admission at the University of Pretoria?
Applicants must hold an accredited bachelor’s degree or a 360-credit diploma verified by the Department of Higher Education and Training.

3. How do I apply for the PGCE at the University of Pretoria?
Applications must be completed online via the official UP application portal within the set dates.

4. Does the PGCE programme include practical teaching experience?
Yes. Students complete school placements in Pretoria partner schools, including a three-week shadow period and a three-to-eight-week extended teaching period.

5. Can international students apply for the PGCE programme?
Yes. International students follow the same application dates and must contact isd@up.ac.za for assistance with registration blocks.

6. What does the PGCE programme fee cover?
The fee covers tuition and study materials but excludes prescribed books.

7. How many steps are in the PGCE application process?
The process includes six steps: obtaining information, applying online, pre-registration, registration, accessing clickUP, and attending classes.