The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is one of South Africa’s most respected universities, attracting thousands of applicants every year. With campuses in Durban and Pietermaritzburg, UKZN offers hundreds of degree programmes across fields such as engineering, health sciences, commerce, education and humanities.

If you want to study at UKZN in 2027, you must apply during the 2026 application cycle through the Central Applications Office (CAO).

This guide explains:

UKZN 2027 application dates and deadlines
How to apply through CAO step-by-step
Required documents and application fees
Tips to increase your chances of admission

Applying early is extremely important because competitive programmes often fill up quickly.

UKZN 2027 Application Dates and Deadlines
Why Study at UKZN – Key Highlights
Step-by-Step Application Process via CAO
Fees, Documents and Application Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion

1. UKZN 2027 Application Dates and Deadlines

Students who want to start studying in 2027 must apply during 2026.

Important UKZN Application Deadlines

Programme	Closing Date
Medicine and Health Science programmes	30 June 2026
All other undergraduate programmes	30 September 2026

Applications typically open on 1 March 2026.

⚠️ It is strongly recommended that students apply before June, especially for competitive programmes such as:

Medicine
Pharmacy
Nursing
Physiotherapy

These programmes have limited spaces and high APS requirements.

All first-time undergraduate applicants must submit their applications through the Central Applications Office (CAO).

📌 UKZN Guide Page:
https://kznuniupdates.org/ukzn-guide/

2. Why Study at UKZN – Key Highlights

UKZN is recognised as a research-intensive university and consistently ranks among the top institutions in South Africa.

Students choose UKZN for several reasons.

Research Excellence

UKZN is home to internationally recognised research institutes such as:

The Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)
The African Centre for Crop Improvement

These centres contribute significantly to global scientific research.

Wide Range of Programmes

UKZN offers degrees across multiple faculties including:

Engineering and the Built Environment
Commerce, Law and Management
Health Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences
Education
Agriculture, Science and Technology

Vibrant Student Life

Students enjoy a dynamic campus environment with:

Sports clubs and facilities
Cultural societies
Student leadership programmes
Modern residences and study spaces

Multiple Campuses

UKZN operates across four main campuses:

Westville (Durban)
Howard College (Durban)
Edgewood (Durban)
Pietermaritzburg

Each campus specialises in different academic programmes and facilities.

3. Step-by-Step Application Process via CAO

All first-time undergraduate applications must be submitted through the Central Applications Office (CAO).

Follow these steps to apply successfully.

Step 1: Research Your Programme

Before applying, check the UKZN prospectus to understand:

Minimum APS requirements
Required school subjects
Programme availability

Choosing programmes aligned with your school results increases your admission chances.

Step 2: Create a CAO Account

Visit the CAO website and create your application profile.

You will need:

Your South African ID number or passport
Email address
Contact details

After registration you will receive your CAO reference number.

Step 3: Select Your Programme Choices

The CAO allows you to select up to six programme choices.

List them in order of preference:

First choice programme
Second choice programme
Alternative programmes

Having alternatives increases your chances of admission.

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

Applicants must upload certified copies of:

South African ID or passport
Latest school results (Grade 11 or Grade 12)
Proof of payment for the application fee

International students may also need SAQA evaluation documents.

Step 5: Pay the CAO Application Fee

The typical CAO application fees are:

Applicant Type	Fee
South African applicants	R250
International applicants	R300
Late applications	R470

Payments can be made via bank deposit, EasyPay outlets or the CAO online portal.

Always keep your proof of payment.

Step 6: Submit Your Application Before the Deadline

Make sure your application is submitted before:

30 June 2026 (Medicine and Health Sciences)
30 September 2026 (all other programmes)

Late applications may be accepted but are not guaranteed.

Step 7: Track Your Application Status

After submitting your application you can monitor your status through your CAO account.

Universities usually begin releasing offers between October and January.

📌 Full CAO guide:
https://kznuniupdates.org/cao-application/

4. Fees, Documents and Application Tips

Application Fees

Applicants must pay the required CAO application fee when submitting their application.

Payment methods include:

Online payment through the CAO portal
Bank deposit
EasyPay partner stores

Always keep your proof of payment.

Documents Required

Applicants should prepare the following documents:

Certified copy of ID or passport
Grade 11 or Grade 12 results
Proof of residence
Proof of payment

Some programmes may require additional documents.

Tips for a Successful Application

To increase your chances of admission:

✔ Apply as early as possible
✔ Double-check programme codes
✔ Ensure documents are certified
✔ Choose alternative programmes
✔ Attend UKZN open days or virtual sessions

5. Frequently Asked Questions

When do UKZN 2027 applications open?

Applications typically open 1 March 2026 through the CAO.

Is there a late application period?

Late applications may be accepted after 31 October, but many programmes will already be full and late fees apply.

What APS score is required for UKZN?

APS requirements vary by programme. Business and commerce programmes typically require 28–32 points, while competitive programmes require higher scores.

📌 NSFAS and bursaries guide:
https://kznuniupdates.org/funding/

Do I apply directly to UKZN?

No. All first-time undergraduate applicants must apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO).

Can I study part-time at UKZN?

Most undergraduate degrees require full-time study, although a few programmes offer part-time options.

6. Conclusion

Applying to UKZN for the 2027 academic year is straightforward if you understand the deadlines and application process.

Remember the key dates:

30 June 2026 – Medicine and Health Science programmes close
30 September 2026 – All other programmes close

Submitting your CAO application early, paying the correct fee and meeting APS requirements will maximise your chances of securing a place at one of South Africa’s leading universities.

Prepare your documents early, explore your programme options and begin your UKZN 2027 application today.

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