The competition, which is organised and hosted for the seventh successive time by the varsity's George campus, will see the top surfers from five coastal institutions vie for the various titles.
Up against the title-holders will be University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University, Cape Peninsula University of Technology and Varsity College.
Apart from the overall title, the Madibaz also won the men's trophy and coach Alex Milne said they would be looking for another good all-round performance.
"We would really like to retain the overall title and will be aiming to add other titles as well."
He said that although there had been some disruptions because of exams, they had all been doing quite a bit of surfing.
"We have a WhatsApp group and if there are good waves we contact each other to get out there.
"This weekend we will be going to Port Alfred to put the final touches on our preparations."
Besides the team competitions, there should be a keen contest for the men's and women's individual titles.
Madibaz's Roxy Giles was crowned women's champion in 2013 and 2014 and will be looking for a return to her best form after finishing fourth last year.
She will face stiff competition from Varsity College pair Nicole Pallet and Chanelle Botha. Pallet is the defending champion after placing second in 2014, while Botha took silver last year.
In the men's section, Matie Shaun Joubert will be back to defend his title. He will go head to head with Varsity College's Wade Simkiss, who was third in 2014 and 2015.
George campus sport manager Hugo Loubser said they were anticipating another competitive tournament.
"USSA tournaments are highlights on any institution's calendar.
"It is an excellent opportunity to establish and foster relationships within the university fraternity, while at the same time contributing to the growth of sport."
He thanked Surfing South Africa for their support towards making the event a success and a platform for students to showcase their talent.
"A word of thanks also to the George Municipality for the use of Vic Bay and the Southern Cape Board Riders Association for again providing logistical support."
The NMMU team is:
Men: Dane van Greunen, Dane Cox, Scott Lenton, Kyle Rubin, Klaus Schroeder, Lee Allers, Brendan Stockigt and Christo Zietsman; Women: Roxy Giles, Britney Linder, Rebekah Anderson, Margot Riley and Nicole Wienand (reserve); Coach: Alex Milne; Manager: Melinda Goosen.