How to check university application status

Checking the status of your university application can be a nerve-wracking process but a very important step in your application journey. In this blog post we will explore how prospective students can check their university application status, understand their statuses and what to do if they receive the rejection letter. 
 

What is an Application Status?

Before we delve into ways one can check their university application status, it is important to understand what application status is. Application status refers to the current stage and progress of an individual's application to an institution. It provides information about where the application stands in the admissions process, from the moment it's submitted until a final decision is made by the admissions committee. 

An application status can indicate whether your application has been received, reviewed, shortlisted, rejected, or accepted. Knowing your application status can help you plan your next steps and manage your expectations. For example, if your application has been rejected, you can apply to other institutions in South Africa. If your application has been accepted, you can prepare for the next stage of the process, such as accepting or declining the offer. 
 

How to check University Application Status

There are numerous ways you can check your university application status. Below are some of the ways you can check your university application status.
 

• Online Portal

The application status is available through an online portal or system provided by the institution. You can check your university application status by using the provided student number and pin. The student number is automatically generated immediately after submitting your university application. In other institutions you will need your ID number to check status.
 

• Email or SMS

Your application status can be sent to your email address or via sms. The email or sms will have detailed information regarding your application status. Some institutions do state the registration dates as well as registration fees. 

Tips for checking your university application status: 

• Make sure that you enter your personal information correctly when you are checking your application status.
• Make sure that you enter your student number correctly
• If you are checking your application status by mail, be sure to check your spam folder.
• If you have not received feedback from an institution after 3 months, contact the admission office.

How to Accept an Offer

You can accept your offer through an online portal or system provided by the institution. You will need your student number, pin and ID number to accept an offer. You will be given a certain period to accept an offer.  Your offer will be forfeited if you do not accept it in time. Good thing is, some universities do not require applicants to accept an offer therefore it is important to check with the university you applied for if they require prospective students to accept offers.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the University Application Status:

Why is it taking so long to get feedback?

You might be wondering, why is it taking long to get a feedback on your university application? There are number of reasons why you are not getting feedback soon and these reason include the following;

• Universities receive a large number of applications every year, meaning that it can take some time for them to process all of the applications and make decisions.
• Universities often have rigorous evaluation processes in place to ensure that they admit the most qualified students. This can involve reviewing academic transcripts, essays, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents.

What can you do to speed up the process of your application? 

• Make sure you exceed the minimum requirements for your chosen course or qualification.
• Submit your application as early as possible. Don't wait until the last minute or deadline
• Submit all the required documents with your application
• Pay university application fee as soon as possible
• Apply for courses that receive less applications such as courses under engineering faculty.
• Be patient and polite. Don't spam or harass institution staff members with calls or emails. They are doing their best to process your application as quickly as possible. Being rude or aggressive will not help your case

University Application Status Stages and what they mean:

• Submitted/Received

You have successfully submitted your application and the institution has received your application. You may receive a confirmation email or message acknowledging that the institution has received your application for the specific academic year.

• In progress

Your application is being reviewed by the institution admissions committee. This stage can take varying amounts of time depending on the university and the volume of applications.

• Awaiting Decision/Pending

Your application is still under consideration and no decision has been made as yet. In other institution this status is known as (Admission Without Status).

• Outstanding Documents

Required documents are missing from the application. The applicant needs to upload the outstanding documents to avoid delays in the application process. Usually if the required documents are submitted then the status will change.

• Pending Verification

Your application was submitted successfully, but the documents you submitted still need to be verified. 

•  Pre-Enrolled

Student has accepted the admission offer and should come during a given period to be processed at the campus portal lab. 

• Provisionally selected/conditionally accepted

You'll be admitted as long as you meet minimum requirements with your final grade 12 results. 

• Programme Full

The programme you applied to has reached its maximum capacity and is no longer accepting new applications.

• Interview Scheduled

Applicants are required to attend an interview as part of the admissions process. This status indicates that an interview has been scheduled. 

• Admitted/unconditional acceptance

 You have been accepted to the institution. This is typically followed by additional instructions on how to proceed with enrolment. 

• Waitlisted

You have been placed on a waitlist, which means that you will be considered for admission if there are any open spots after all of the admitted students have enrolled. 

• Rejected/unsuccessful

You have not been accepted to the institution for your desired study programme.

What to do if university rejects your application

Getting the rejection letter can be so painful but that should not discourage you to stop applying in other institutions.
Remember that your worth isn't defined by a single rejection. Here's what you can do if university rejects your application.

• Reflect and Learn:

Identify what has caused the rejection! It is your results? If you do not qualify for that one particular course at an institution of your choice you can always apply to other institutions, making sure you meet the minimum admission requirements. Use the rejection as an opportunity to grow and become a stronger applicant.
 

• Explore Other Options:

Research other universities that align with your academic and career goals. Weigh the pros and cons of each university to make an informed decision. Not forgetting to check requirements. Remember to be successful on your application, you need to at least exceed the admission requirements of your desired course. 

• Improve Your Results:

If your rejection was based on your results, ensure that you upgrade subjects that need improvement. If you can, reach out to mentors or teachers. They can provide support and guidance.
 

Rejection can be a setback, but it doesn't have to define your future. Focus on your strengths: Remember your accomplishments and qualities that make you a valuable applicant. Remember, rejection is not the end of the world. It's an opportunity to learn, grow, and find the right university for you.

Understanding the various application statuses and knowing how to track them can help you manage your expectations and plan your next steps effectively. While checking your university application status can be nerve-wracking, it's a crucial step in the process of determining your academic path.