Registration guides
Choose your category below to access IT services
frequently used in your student life.
When you are new to NWU and receive your NWU number, your password is initially set to your RSA ID number@Nwu. For international students, the password is set to your passport number@Nwu (example: 1234567890123@Nwu).
After your first login, you must change your password. Your password expires every 90 days. (Password change link)
All registered NWU students are assigned a unique NWU Microsoft email address, which is used for official university communication and Microsoft 365 access.
Use the NWU Student Portal to manage registration tasks and requests.
PDF guide: Log in to the Student Portal
We’ve outlined the key steps in the correct order to simplify your registration process. Important: This applies only if you have received and accepted a final offer from NWU.
We’ve outlined the key steps in the correct order to help senior students register smoothly.
A quick video walkthrough of the online registration process.
First-year (all faculties): 19 January 2026
Closes: 7 February 2026 (qualification capacity may apply)
Early returns / student leaders: 19 January 2026
Business School: 19 January 2026
Education (seniors): 26–27 January 2026
Health Sciences (seniors): 28–29 January 2026
Economic & Management Sciences (seniors): 30 January 2026
Natural & Agricultural Sciences (seniors): 2 February 2026
Humanities (seniors): 3 February 2026
Engineering (seniors): 4 February 2026
Theology (seniors): 5 February 2026
Law (seniors): 5 February 2026
Final opportunity (all outstanding students): 5–6 February 2026
Registration becomes available only after the minimum payable amount is paid.
Online registration: Open online registration
Use the payment portal / Student Portal finances section to pay required amounts online.
PDF guide: Payment portal guide
If you have outstanding fees or holds on your account, registration may be blocked until resolved.
Tip: Check your Student Portal notices and follow the instructions linked to the hold message.
If you need assistance, submit a request via the Student Helpdesk (tracked support).
PDF guide: Submit your request on the Student Helpdesk
“Registration ready” indicates you meet the basic requirements to proceed (for example minimum payable fees). If you are not registration ready, check your Student Portal notices for the reason.
A hold is a block on your account that prevents registration until resolved (finance/admin requirements).
Check the message linked to the hold in the Student Portal and follow the guidance provided.
This can happen if multiple Microsoft accounts are signed in on the same browser/device. Try an incognito/private window and sign out of other accounts before logging in again.
Submit your request on the Student Helpdesk so it can be tracked and routed correctly.
Use the orientation programme page for guidance as you start your student journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about registration.
Enter your student number or mobile number (no spaces) to proceed with guided registration support.
A quick infographic overview to help you register.
Microsoft enforces Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for Microsoft 365. Students must comply to protect their accounts.
Keep your devices updated and stay alert to phishing attempts. Use strong passwords and MFA wherever possible.
You can sign in using your student number (prospective/new student) or your NWU account (current student/employee).
PDF guide: Create your student card
If you are struggling to access the Student Portal, use this guide.