UKZN 2027 Application: Key Dates, Requirements, and How to Apply
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is now accepting applications for the 2027 academic year. Whether you are a first-time undergraduate, a postgraduate student, or an international applicant, this complete guide will help you navigate the application process, understand deadlines, meet entry requirements, and submit all necessary documents.
Applying early is highly recommended, as competitive programmes like Medicine, Health Sciences, and Engineering often fill quickly. Read on to learn everything you need to know about the UKZN 2027 application season.
About the University of KwaZulu-Natal
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is a leading African university known for academic excellence, research innovation, and community impact. With five campuses in Durban and Pietermaritzburg, it offers diverse programs, world-class facilities, and a multicultural learning environment. As a research-intensive institution, UKZN addresses global challenges in fields like health, engineering, social development, and sustainability. With over a century of educational heritage, it emphasises African-centred scholarship, producing critical thinkers, ethical leaders, and industry-ready graduates.
UKZN 2027 Application Opening and Closing Dates
Applications for the 2027 academic year open on 1 March 2026. Below is a breakdown of all key deadlines:
| Programme | Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| Medicine | 30 June 2026 (No late applications accepted) |
| All Other Undergraduate & Postgraduate Programmes | 30 September 2026 |
| Semester 2 (August 2026) – limited programmes | 30 April 2026 |
| Returning Students (Semester 2) | 30 April 2026 |
Tip: Applying early ensures your documents are processed on time and increases your chance of acceptance for high-demand programmes.
UKZN 2027 Application Fee
Applicants are required to pay a non-refundable application fee. Fees vary by nationality and submission time:
South African Applicants
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On-time application: R210
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Late application: R420
International Applicants
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SADC & Rest of Africa: R490
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Outside Africa: $153
Make sure to keep proof of payment for uploading with your application. Without it, your application will not be processed.
Who Should Apply
UKZN welcomes applications from:
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First-time undergraduate students
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Transfer students
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Returning students
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Postgraduate students
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International students meeting entry requirements
Note: South African first-time undergraduate applicants must apply via the Central Applications Office (CAO). Other applicants can apply directly via the UKZN online portal.
Required Supporting Documents
Prepare the following before applying:
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Certified copy of your ID or passport
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Certified copy of National Senior Certificate (NSC), O/A Levels, or equivalent
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Proof of eligibility for degree study if you are an international applicant (USAf / SAQA verification)
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Certified copies of previous degree certificates and transcripts (for transfer or postgraduate applicants)
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Proof of English proficiency (for non-English speaking international applicants)
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Research proposal or dissertation title (for Master’s or PhD applicants)
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Study visa (for international students)
Incomplete applications will delay processing.
UKZN 2027 Undergraduate Admission Requirements
General Requirements
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National Senior Certificate (NSC) for Degree Studies with required APS
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Required subject combinations for your chosen programme
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English Home Language or First Additional Language proficiency
Programme-Specific Requirements
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Medicine & Health Sciences: Strong performance in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences
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Engineering: Mathematics and Physical Sciences compulsory
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Commerce & Management Studies: Mathematics required
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Law: High APS and language proficiency
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Humanities & Social Sciences: Subject requirements vary by programme
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; competitive programmes select top candidates based on APS and available space.
Qualifications Offered at UKZN (Undergraduate)
College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science
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Bachelor of Science (BSc)
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Engineering degrees
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Environmental Sciences
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Agricultural Sciences
College of Health Sciences
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MBChB (Medicine)
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Nursing
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Pharmacy
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Physiotherapy
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Dentistry
College of Humanities
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Bachelor of Arts (BA)
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Education degrees
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Social Sciences
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Psychology
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Media & Cultural Studies
College of Law and Management Studies
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Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
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Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
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Accounting
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Economics
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Business Science
How to Apply for UKZN 2027 Online
For South African First-Time Undergraduate Applicants
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Visit www.cao.ac.za
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Select “Apply” and follow the on-screen instructions
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Complete all required fields, including school information
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Submit your application and obtain your CAO number
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Upload all supporting documents and proof of payment
For Other Applicants (Transfer, Returning, Postgraduate, International)
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Visit www.ukzn.ac.za
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Complete the online application form for your programme
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Upload certified copies of all required documents
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Pay the non-refundable application fee via EasyPay
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Submit your application and keep your reference number for tracking
How to Check Your Application Status
After submission, track your status online:
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Select your application year (2027)
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Enter your CAO number, UKZN student number, ID, or passport
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Click “Check” to view your application status
UKZN Contact Information
For enquiries regarding applications:
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Email: enquiries@ukzn.ac.za
For academic record enquiries:
For more information, visit the UKZN official website.
Final Tips for Applicants
- Apply early to avoid missing deadlines, especially for competitive programmes.
- Prepare and upload all required documents before submission.
- Double-check programme-specific requirements to avoid disqualification.
- Keep proof of payment and reference numbers safe for tracking.
- Monitor your email regularly for updates from UKZN.