Hesa has encouraged matrics to get their 2014 university applications in before the September 30 deadline set by most tertiary institutions.

In launching Hesa’s Apply Before You Enrol campaign, chief executive of Hesa, Jeffrey Mabelebele said: “In order to secure provisional admission – subject to the institutions’ requirements – it is advisable for prospective students to apply ahead of this closing date.”

Mabelebele said that while some institutions’ closing dates for applications had already passed, the majority continue to accept applications until the end of September.

The month-long campaign is an initiative of Hesa’s National Information Service for Higher Education.

The service provides prospective students with diverse information relating to the options and opportunities that exist in the country’s 23 universities.

Mabelebele said: “The service is primarily aimed at providing information on minimum entry requirements and study opportunities to grades 9-12 pupils to enable them to make informed decisions about their future. It encourages them to apply on time to the university of their choice.”

Thousands of prospective university entrants have in the past left their applications to the last minute, leading to long queues forming at the entrances of institutions.

In January last year, a woman was killed and 17 were injured when a stampede occurred at the gates of the University of Johannesburg.

Hesa is encouraging prospective students who have any application-related queries to either contact the university of their choice or SMS their name or query to 47989 at a cost of R1.50, or email info.nishe@hesa.org.za.

For more http://www.thenewage.co.za