The University of Pretoria (UP) is one of Africa’s top universities and the largest contact university in South Africa. We produce socially impactful research to find solutions for the world’s most pressing issues. We have a high quality of teaching and learning in the classroom, online, or in communities. We have support in place for our students to graduate on time as well-rounded, responsible citizens fully prepared for the world beyond university.
UP at a glance
1175
Academic programmes
90%
Module pass rate
56 453
Total number of students enrolled
334 174
Alumni
What would you like to study?
Campus Life
Your academic success is important, but university life is also about having fun and exploring your talents to be a well-rounded graduate who is ready for the world beyond university. At the University of Pretoria, we have a vibrant student life and there are many arts, cultural, sporting, and even academic extramural activities that you can participate in.
Let's hear from our students
Research Matters
Stories
November 19, 2025
Better brain health: UP neurosurgeon develops non-invasive, eye-based method to measure intracranial pressure
Paediatric neurosurgeon Professor Llewellyn Padayachy, Head of the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Pretoria’s (UP) Steve Biko Academic Hospital...
Stories
October 29, 2025
UP scientists win Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics for global research into particle discovery
Two University of Pretoria (UP) researchers have been awarded the 2025 Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics, along with colleagues from the European...
Teaching and Learning Matters
December 03, 2025
UP’s E-Education Group wins international award for outstanding professional development
The E-Education Group at the University of Pretoria (UP) recently received an Anthology Catalyst Award for Training & Professional Development, recognising its...
December 03, 2025
Co-Creating Fully Online Learning Excellence
Behind every successful fully online learning programme at the University of Pretoria is a collaboration between Comprehensive Online Education Services (COES)...
Latest News
December 18, 2025
Supporting students with disabilities at UP
The University of Pretoria (UP) is committed to creating an inclusive academic environment for all students, including those with disabilities. Access...
December 18, 2025
Student life at UP: Going beyond the classroom
Student life at UP: Going beyond the classroom While academic success is central to the University of Pretoria (UP) experience, the University also believes in...
December 18, 2025
Attention first-year students: Here’s what you need to know about registration and orientation
Congratulations on choosing to study at the University of Pretoria! Here are the steps you need to take to register and attend orientation. To get you started...
December 18, 2025
UP’s comprehensive approach to student support
The University of Pretoria’s (UP) Department of Student Affairs (DSA) is a multifaceted support system that assists students in a holistic way, addressing their...
December 18, 2025
UP master’s student awarded SANORD’s Brian O’Connell scholarship
The R125 000 scholarship will enable Hoekstra to spend three to five months at the Western Norway University of Applied Sciences in Bergen, where he will...
December 12, 2025
University of Pretoria and ATTSolar Sign 25-Year Renewable Energy Partnership
The University of Pretoria (UP) has partnered with ATTSolar Proprietary Limited to develop a new 10.5 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) facility that will supply clean...
Stories
December 11, 2025
UP EXPERT OPINION: Africa’s health in a warming world - Evidence, urgency and what to do next
Climate change is increasingly destabilising the planetary systems and environmental conditions on which human health and life depend. The recently published...
December 02, 2025
UP hosts conference to discuss Africa and the ‘geoeconomics of the seas’
The University of Pretoria’s (UP) African Centre for the Study of the United States and its Department of Political Science’s Ocean Regions Programme recently...
Events
Welcome Day 2026
31 January 2026
09:00
University of Pretoria
Welcome Day is a key event on our academic calendar, and sets the tone for your time at UP. We are excited to share this important day with you.
International Student's Day
02 October 2026
09:00
University of Pretoria
This annual event highlights the vibrant cultural diversity and global connections that enrich our campus
