Is University Application Free in KZN? UKZN, DUT & CAO Fees Explained

Learn about application fees for KZN universities. This guide compares the costs for UKZN and DUT and explains the Central Applications Office (CAO) fee structure, including on‑time and late charges for South African and international applicants.

Introduction

Prospective students often ask whether applying to university is free. In KwaZulu‑Natal, you typically submit your application through the Central Applications Office (CAO) or directly to the institution. Both routes involve administration fees. This article outlines the 2026 application fees for UKZN and DUT, details the CAO fee structure, and explains why paying on time saves money.

Table of Contents

1. Why applications aren’t free
2. UKZN application fees
3. CAO fee structure
4. DUT application fees
5. Tips to save money
6. Conclusion

Why applications aren’t free

South African universities charge application fees to cover administrative costs such as processing documentation, verifying academic records and maintaining secure application portals. These fees are non‑refundable and vary by institution. The CAO consolidates applications for multiple universities, but you still pay a fee. Budgeting for these fees is part of planning your university journey.

UKZN application fees

UKZN charges different fees depending on your nationality and whether you apply on time:

• South African applicants: R210 for on‑time applications and R420 for late applications.
• SADC and the rest of Africa: R490.
• International applicants outside Africa: US$153.

The on‑time fee applies when you submit your application before the advertised closing date (usually 30 September). Late applications attract the higher fee and are only considered if programmes still have space. Note that UKZN does not waive fees for low‑income applicants; however, NSFAS applicants may be reimbursed once funding is confirmed.

CAO fee structure

The CAO manages applications for UKZN, DUT, MUT and UNIZULU. Its fees include both an application charge and a change‑of‑mind fee:

• On‑time applications: R250 for South African citizens and R300 for international applicants, if the application and payment reach the CAO by 31 October 2025.
• Late applications: R470 for South Africans and R580 for international applicants when submitted after 1 November.
• Change‑of‑mind (COM) fee: R140 per request to add or renumber programme choices.

Once you pay the CAO fee, you can apply to multiple universities that participate in the CAO (including DUT and UKZN). This fee is non‑refundable. Remember to attach proof of payment to avoid delays in processing.

DUT application fees

DUT applications are submitted via the CAO, so the same fee structure applies. A Careers Portal article reminds applicants that paying the CAO fee covers all applications to universities using the CAO. Therefore, you do not need to pay a separate fee to DUT.

If you apply directly to a postgraduate programme or special short course at DUT, check with the faculty for any additional fees. For most undergraduate programmes, the CAO application fee is your only cost.

Tips to save money

• Apply early: Submitting your application before 31 October ensures you pay the lower on‑time fee and reduces the risk of your programme filling up.
• Prepare documents: Missing documents can delay processing and force you to reapply. Make sure you have certified copies of your ID, school reports and proof of payment.
• Limit changes: Each change‑of‑mind request costs R140, so research programme requirements carefully before submitting.
• Check fee waivers: Some institutions reimburse application fees for NSFAS‑funded students once registration is complete. Contact the university’s finance office for details.

Conclusion

Applying to university in KZN is not free. UKZN charges between R210 and R420 for South African applicants, while the CAO charges R250 on‑time or R470 late. These fees cover administrative costs and must be paid before your application is processed. DUT uses the CAO, so you only pay once. To avoid unnecessary expenses, apply early, prepare your documents and limit programme changes. With the right planning, the application fee becomes a small step toward your university journey.