International Students Office (ISO)
Dear Students
It has been a busy 2026, and we are already midway through the first semester. As we approach the end of the teaching block and the beginning of the examination period, let us continue to keep the momentum and spirit alive by celebrating the small victories along the way and showing kindness to ourselves and to others.
Wishing all our students the very best for the upcoming examinations. Stay focused, believe in yourselves, and remember that all your hard work will pay off. Take care of yourselves, get enough rest, and give it your very best. We are rooting for your success and wishing you every success during this examination period.
As we prepare for the graduation season in July, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all our postgraduate students on this remarkable achievement. May this milestone mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter, and we wish you every success in your future endeavours.
Matriculation Exemption
All registered undergraduate students who hold non-South African school qualifications are required to have their qualifications evaluated by the Matriculation Board.
Students who have not received their Matriculation Exemption certificates must urgently contact the International Students Office no later than Friday, 29 May 2026
Contact:E-mail: busi.mamabolo@wits.ac.za
IMMIGRATION
South Africa’s immigration regulations, specifically Regulation 9(8)(c) of the Immigration Act, require that visa renewal applications be submitted at least 60 days before the current visa expires. This is not merely a guideline but a legal requirement.
This Regulation allows the Department of Home Affairs ample time to process yourapplication,ensuringtheykeepyour visa status valid without disruption. When you submit your application on time, you comply with the law and avoid the stress and complications of dealing with an expired visa.
It’s important to note that the submission deadline is not the starting point. Preparing for your renewal well in advance is essential for meeting this deadline effectively.
The Consequences of NonCompliance
Failing to adhere to the 60-day submission rule can have serious consequences, including:
• Rejection of your application: Late applications are unlikely to be accepted unless exceptional circumstances can be proven.
• Becoming an illegal foreigner: Overstaying your visa status makes you an illegal foreigner under South African law, which may result in detention or deportation.
• Bans from re-entering South Africa: Overstays can lead to a ban from entering the country for up to five years.
• Disruption to your plans: A rejected application can affect your ability to work, study, or maintain your life in South Africa.
Understanding these risks underscores the importance of not only adhering to
ATTENTION
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS!
Please update your Visa/Permit and Passport details by emailing studysa.international@wits.ac.za or by visiting the International Students Office
To all the first-year students for attending the Orientation and Welcome Event held on 20 March 2026.
Your presence truly contributed to making the event a success.
We hope the session was informative, welcoming and provided you with an opportunity to connect with fellow students and feel more at home within the Wits community.
The International Students Sub-Council (ISSC) and the International Students Office (ISO) are excited to have you with us and look forward to an amazing academic year together.
MEDICAL AID
Medical aid service providers
CompCare and Momentum Health will be on campus to assist students with enquiries on the last Thursday every month.
: International Students Office Boardroom
: 09h00 – 13h00
Study Abroad
Did you know that you can Study Abroad?
Take advantage of this great opportunity to broaden your academic, professional and cultural horizons while earning credits towards your Wits degree. Visit our website to learn more about partner universities, application processes, eligibility requirements and upcoming opportunities.
University of Edinburgh (Geography ONLY)
Universite Paris Nanterre
ESTP Paris (Ecole Spéciale des Travaux Publics, du Bâtiment, et de l’Industrie)
Tübingen University (Eberhard Karls)
Oldenburg University (Carl von Ossietzky)
May 2026
You are not limited to the above list. Visit https://www.wits.ac.za/studyabroad/
For more information: contact Masego Bosilong E-mail: masego.bosilong@wits.ac.za/ exchange.international@wits.ac.za
International Student Sub-Council (ISSC) Committee
Chairperson DRC Congo Marie-Therese Eloko src.isscchair@students.wits.ac.za
Deputy Chairperson Lesotho Sebabatso Mohloki issc.deputychair@students.wits.ac.za
Treasurer Zimbabwe Munyaradzi Murove issc.treasurer@students.wits.ac.za
Secretary Botswana Chido Chikoore issc.secretary@students.wits.ac.za
Deputy Secretary Zimbabwe Botlhale Khumo issc.deputysecretary@students.wits.ac.za
Projects & Events Officer eSwatini Sibuselo Aviwe Gama issc.projects@students.wits.ac.za
Legal, Policy & Constitutional Affairs Officer China You Ning Chen issc.legal@students.wits.ac.za
Academic Officer Zimbabwe Amanda Mugadza issc.academic@students.wits.ac.za
Transformation Officer Uganda Jeanine Olive Akwenyu issc.transformation@students.wits.ac.za