Visual Arts
 
Home /  Frequently Asked Questions   /   Applying

Applying

You apply online through the Nelson Mandela University application portal. You complete the form and upload the required documents. Apply early if you can, because spaces can fill up.

See also:

You need to meet the required Applicant Score for the Bachelor of Visual Arts, and you must meet degree entry requirements. Admission can also depend on departmental selection processes.

Minimum National Senior Certificate (NSC) statutory requirements for degree entry must be met. An applicant with NSC Grade 12 Mathematics or Technical Mathematics requires a minimum Applicant Score of 350. An applicant with NSC Grade 12 Mathematics Literacy requires a minimum Applicant Score of 365. Admission is subject to Departmental selection.

See also:

Yes. You can apply even if you did not take Visual Arts at school. The first year teaches foundational skills and introduces you to different disciplines. What matters is your interest and your willingness to practise.

See also:

Meeting NSC degree requirements is the main requirement. Creative subjects can help, but they are not always necessary. English is important because you must understand briefs, write reflections, and communicate ideas.

See also:

A portfolio is often used in Visual Arts programmes to show your potential. A portfolio means a selection of your work, such as drawings, designs, photographs, or creative projects. It helps staff understand your interests and your level.

Admission to the programme is determined by a departmental selection panel comprising of lecturers from the disciplines offered within the BVA, namely Fine Art, Graphic Design, Photography, Fashion, and Textiles. As part of the selection process, you are required to submit a creative portfolio, a short essay, and personal information for review by the panel. Your portfolio must consist entirely of your own original artwork. While you may receive general guidance or feedback, all work must be executed independently. If you do not have formal training in visual arts, you are encouraged to research drawing techniques on your own.

If you meet the minimum entrance requirements and are invited to proceed to the departmental selection stage, you will be required to submit the following:

PROJECT 1: STILL LIFE DRAWING (COMPULSORY) 

PROJECT 2: PORTRAIT DRAWING (COMPULSORY)

PROJECT 3: 3 TO 5 IMAGES OF YOUR WORK WHICH REFLECTS YOUR CURRENT ABILITY (COMPULSORY)

PROJECT 4: SHORT ESSAY

Further details regarding the portfolio requirements and submission deadlines will be emailed to applicants who are shortlisted and referred to the Visual Arts Department.

See also:

Closing dates change each year. You should check the university closing dates page to be sure. Apply as early as possible as early applications closes in August and late applications normally close in September each year

See also:

Yes. Mature students can apply, and there may be routes such as Recognition of Prior Learning depending on your situation. If you are unsure, ask for advice before you apply so you do not waste time.

See also:

Yes, transfers can be considered. Your academic record will be reviewed and you may need to share examples of your work. Space in the programme also matters, so apply early. You may wish to contact our programme leaders or faculty officer directly for advice.

See also:

Yes. International students can apply, but you must meet entry requirements and follow the international application process. You will also need to plan for visa requirements and timelines.

See also:

You can contact the Department of Visual Arts directly for guidance. It is normal to ask questions, especially if you are applying for the first time. Staff can tell you who to speak to about first year applications and what documents you need.

See also:




© 2026 Nelson Mandela University    WCMS