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Where to for matriculants as universities face a deluge of applications

The article from News24 discusses the overwhelming number of applications received by South African universities for the 2025 academic year, highlighting the intense competition for limited spots. Despite the high demand, universities like the University of Pretoria and the University of Johannesburg have seen application numbers soar, with the former receiving over 170,000 applications for just 10,000 first-year places. This surge is attributed to a combination of factors including a large pool of matriculants, the allure of higher education, and the economic necessity for better job prospects. The article also touches on the challenges faced by students, such as the pressure of meeting application deadlines, the financial burden of education, and the emotional toll of potential rejection. It suggests that alternative educational paths like TVET colleges and online learning platforms are becoming more viable options for those unable to secure university admission. Additionally, universities are implementing stricter admission criteria and encouraging students to consider less popular courses or institutions to manage the influx.

Read the Full News24 Article at:
[ https://www.news24.com/citypress/news/where-to-for-matriculants-as-universities-face-a-deluge-of-applications-20250119 ]