Stellenbosch University (SUN) Students Handbook 2026/2027

Stellenbosch University Handbook 2026… Download Stellenbosch University, SUN Students Handbook, Faculties Brochure, Course Outline and Yearbook for the 2026 academic year.

The Stellenbosch University (SUN) Handbook 2026 pdf download contains the list of courses, admission application guide, Fees structure, admission requirements, academic calendar, APS Calculator, courses (Programmes) duration, and all admission application information to guide you through the Stellenbosch University admission process for 2026 academic year.

The management of the Stellenbosch University has released the Stellenbosch University Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Diploma, Certificate, Degree, Doctorate, Bachelors, Distant Learning, Masters, International, MBA, Ph.D. Programmes Handbook & Brochure (Year Book/Diary) in PDF for the 2026 academic session.

Stellenbosch University Handbook 2026, Courses, Requirements, Fees and Applications

The Stellenbosch University Handbook 2026 is one of the most important resources for prospective and returning students who plan to study at one of South Africa’s leading institutions. Whether you are preparing for undergraduate studies, aiming for a postgraduate qualification, or simply exploring what the university offers, the handbook gives you a detailed overview of programmes, admission criteria, academic rules and faculty-specific guidelines.

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about the 2026 handbook, including how to interpret its contents, what information matters most, and how to use it effectively when preparing your application. If you are seeking clarity, direction, and confidence as you enter the admission cycle, this article provides a complete, SEO-friendly explanation designed for students, parents, educators, and advisors.

You will also find guidance on how to apply for the 2026 academic year using the official online platform, which you can access here: https://www.sun.ac.za/english/maties/apply

What Is the Stellenbosch University Handbook 2026?

The Stellenbosch University Handbook 2026 is an annual academic publication that outlines the university’s qualifications, faculty structures, course descriptions, admission requirements, policies, and academic regulations for the year. Each faculty publishes its own volume within the broader handbook series, ensuring that both new and returning students have the most accurate and updated information.

For students, the handbook functions as:

A course directory
A reference for qualification requirements
A guide to academic progression rules
An overview of departments and fields of study
An explanation of policies, codes of conduct and assessment methods

Because admission guidelines and programme structures can change from year to year, the 2026 handbook is essential for students who want to prepare properly and avoid misconceptions that come from relying on outdated information.

Why the 2026 Handbook Matters

Many students underestimate the importance of reviewing the handbook before applying. Yet it is one of the most authoritative documents you will encounter on your academic journey. The handbook helps you:

1. Understand Exactly What Each Programme Covers

Programme names can be misleading if you do not look into the modules, outcomes, and focus areas. The handbook provides detailed module breakdowns, enabling you to understand what to expect throughout your years of study.

2. Confirm Admission Requirements

Every qualification includes minimum admission requirements based on the National Senior Certificate or equivalent international qualifications. These requirements differ across faculties, and the handbook specifies the subject combinations and APS or percentage thresholds required for admission.

3. Compare Programmes Within a Field

Students often compare degrees such as BCom Management Sciences and BCom Financial Accounting, or BA Law and LLB. The handbook allows direct comparison so you can make an informed decision.

4. Plan Long-Term Career and Academic Paths

The handbook highlights further study opportunities, articulation routes, and postgraduate pathways associated with each programme.

5. Avoid Administrative Errors

From module selection to understanding workload expectations, the handbook protects you from making costly academic mistakes.

How the Stellenbosch University Handbook Is Structured

The Stellenbosch University Handbook 2026 consists of multiple volumes, each representing a specific faculty or cluster. Although the exact layout may vary slightly by year, most handbooks include the following sections:

General Information and Policies
Faculty Overview
Departments and Academic Divisions
Undergraduate Programme Listings
Postgraduate Programme Listings
Module Descriptions
Rules for Degrees, Diplomas and Certificates
Research Requirements, Theses and Dissertations (Postgraduate)
Assessment, Examination and Promotion Rules
Contact Information and Support Services

Each volume follows a consistent structure, allowing students to quickly find what they need.

Key Components of the Stellenbosch University Handbook 2026

Below is a detailed breakdown of the most important sections students should pay attention to.

1. Admission Requirements

Admission requirements in the handbook specify:

Minimum NSC symbols
Faculty-specific subject prerequisites
Mathematics vs Mathematical Literacy guidelines
Language requirements
Portfolio or audition requirements (for faculties such as Arts and Social Sciences, Music or Drama)
Minimum APS or percentage scores

New for the 2026 cycle, many faculties may update subject combinations or percentage thresholds, making it vital to consult the handbook instead of relying on previous years.

2. Programme Structure and Duration

Each qualification includes information such as:

Programme duration in years
Total credits required
Core, elective and compulsory modules
Work-integrated learning components
Capstone projects or research requirements
Required practical or clinical hours

Understanding the structure ensures that you choose a programme that aligns with your strengths and expectations.

3. Module Descriptions

This is one of the most valuable sections for prospective students. Module descriptions include:

Semester allocation
Credit weighting
Module outcomes
Prerequisites and co-requisites
Assessment methods

By reviewing module descriptions, you get a clear sense of whether a programme aligns with your academic interests.

4. Academic Rules and Policies

Every student must adhere to general university rules, including:

Registration procedures
Module amendment deadlines
Academic progression requirements
Examination regulations
Plagiarism and misconduct policies
Appeals and discontinuation rules

These rules help protect academic integrity and ensure fairness.

5. Postgraduate Requirements

The postgraduate sections of the handbook outline:

Research proposal guidelines
Coursework vs research distinctions
Minimum entry requirements
Supervisor selection
Dissertation submission criteria
Funding and scholarship references

Postgraduate requirements change more frequently than undergraduate ones, making the 2026 handbook critical for masters and doctoral applicants.

Faculties Covered in the Stellenbosch University Handbook 2026

Stellenbosch University is known for its diverse academic offerings across multiple faculties. The 2026 handbook covers the following:

1. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

Offers programmes in languages, psychology, sociology, political science, visual arts, drama and music. The faculty emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and social understanding.

2. Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences

Includes BCom degrees, business management, economics, logistics, actuarial science, accounting and related fields. The faculty is popular among students seeking business careers.

3. Faculty of Science

Covers physics, chemistry, biology, earth sciences, mathematical sciences, polymer sciences and more. It is research intensive and globally recognized.

4. Faculty of Engineering

Offers engineering programmes such as civil, mechanical, electrical, industrial, chemical and mechatronic engineering. Entry requirements are among the university’s highest.

5. Faculty of AgriSciences

Provides qualifications in agricultural economics, plant sciences, animal sciences, food sciences and agri-engineering. It is one of the strongest agricultural faculties in Africa.

6. Faculty of Law

Includes LLB degrees, BA Law, BCom Law and postgraduate legal studies. The faculty blends academic rigor with practical legal training.

7. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences

Based at Tygerberg campus, this faculty offers MBChB, nursing, physiotherapy, dietetics, speech therapy and other health sciences programmes.

8. Faculty of Education

Focuses on teacher training for foundation, intermediate and senior phases, as well as postgraduate teaching qualifications.

9. Faculty of Theology

Provides degrees in theology, Christian ministry and related fields.

Each faculty volume in the handbook offers a deep dive into its unique programmes and requirements, enabling students to make informed decisions.

How the Handbook Helps with Application Planning for 2026

Applying to Stellenbosch University is highly competitive, particularly for limited-intake programmes. The handbook gives you a major advantage by helping you plan ahead in these ways:

1. Selecting the Right Programme Early

Many students discover too late that their subject choices or marks are not suitable for the programme they want. The handbook helps you identify realistic options well before applying.

2. Preparing Required Documents

For some degrees, you may need to submit extra documents, such as:

Portfolios
Auditions
Motivation letters
Departmental questionnaires
Medical fitness reports

The handbook outlines these clearly.

3. Understanding Programme Quotas

Certain programmes have limited seats. Knowing this helps you prepare alternative options and backup plans.

4. Matching Subjects to Career Goals

Many students choose programmes based on popularity rather than alignment with their strengths. The handbook clarifies expected competencies.

5. Planning Finances and Funding

While the handbook does not set official fees, it includes helpful financial guidelines and estimated costs where available.

Using the Handbook for Academic Success After Admission

The Stellenbosch University Handbook 2026 is not just for applicants. Once enrolled, it becomes a vital academic companion.

1. Tracking Module Requirements

Students must ensure they take the correct modules each year. The handbook helps you avoid choosing modules that do not count toward your degree.

2. Understanding Promotion Rules

Many programmes have strict progression requirements. If you do not meet the minimum credits each year, you risk exclusion.

3. Avoiding Unintentional Misconduct

Academic integrity is central to the university’s policies. Familiarity with rules prevents mistakes in referencing, examinations and submissions.

4. Planning for Postgraduate Studies

Ambitious students who want to continue to honours, masters or doctoral levels can map out their long-term academic strategy using the handbook.

Updates You Can Expect in the Stellenbosch University Handbook 2026

While every year brings adjustments, the 2026 handbook may include updates in:

Programme curriculum content
New or revised qualifications
Subject credit changes
Updated admission thresholds
Revised assessment methods
Changes to student support services
Faculty restructuring

Students must rely on the 2026 edition instead of outdated versions.

Tips on How to Use the Stellenbosch University Handbook Effectively

1. Keep a Digital and Printed Copy

A digital version helps with quick searches, while a printed copy is ideal for planning.

2. Highlight Key Requirements

Mark prerequisites, important rules and core modules to avoid missing critical details.

3. Compare Programmes Thoroughly

Read similar programmes side by side. Differences may seem small but can significantly impact your academic journey.

4. Consult Academic Advisors

Use the handbook as a foundation, then ask faculty advisors for guidance where needed.

5. Revisit the Handbook Regularly

Many students check it once and forget. Revisit it every semester to stay aligned with academic expectations.

How to Apply for Admission After Using the Handbook

Once you understand your programme options, admission rules and academic expectations, you can apply for 2026 using the official online platform. Applications typically open early in the year and close later in the academic cycle, though exact dates vary by programme.

Submit your application here: https://www.sun.ac.za/english/maties/apply

What Makes Stellenbosch University a Top Choice for 2026 Applicants

Stellenbosch University remains one of Africa’s leading institutions thanks to:

World-class research output
Prestigious faculty expertise
Innovative learning facilities
Strong partnerships with industry
Beautiful and historic campus atmosphere
Excellent graduate employability
A vibrant multicultural student community

The handbook reflects this tradition of excellence by outlining the university’s rigorous academic standards.

Common Mistakes Students Make When Using the Handbook

Avoid these frequent errors:

1. Only Reading Programme Titles

Titles do not provide the full story. Detailed module descriptions are essential.

2. Skimming Admission Requirements

Even a single missing requirement can disqualify you.

3. Ignoring Elective Requirements

Some degrees require a specific number of electives from certain lists.

4. Overlooking Rules for Repeating Modules

These rules can affect your funding and progression.

5. Not Checking Postgraduate Prerequisites Early

Certain postgraduate programmes require undergraduate modules that students often skip unknowingly.

Why You Must Review the Stellenbosch University Handbook 2026

The Stellenbosch University Handbook 2026 is more than a catalog of programmes. It is a roadmap for your academic and professional success. Whether you are a first-time applicant, a returning student or a postgraduate researcher, the handbook ensures clarity, accuracy and confidence in planning your educational journey.

Use it to understand programme structures, check admission criteria, plan your modules, stay compliant with academic rules and pursue your degree with a clear and informed vision. By combining the handbook’s guidance with early application planning, you maximize your chances of securing a place at one of Africa’s most respected institutions.

If you are ready to start your journey toward the 2026 academic year, remember to submit your online application at: https://www.sun.ac.za/english/maties/apply

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