UKZN Bachelor Courses Open for Late Applications 2026

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has confirmed that a number of bachelor’s degree programmes remain open for late applications for the 2026 academic year.

UKZN, one of South Africa’s leading public universities, attracts thousands of applicants each year across its five campuses — Howard College, Pietermaritzburg, Westville, Edgewood and Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine. Due to high demand, most programmes close early; however, late applications are opened selectively for courses where spaces are still available.

Who should consider late applications at UKZN?

Late applications are primarily intended for applicants who meet the minimum admission requirements but did not apply on time, as well as those who may have been waiting for their final Grade 12 results, upgrading marks, or reconsidering their programme choices. UKZN has cautioned that late applications are competitive and subject to space availability.

Bachelor courses open for 2026 late applications at UKZN

• Bachelor of Science (General)
• Bachelor of Science in Land Surveying
• Bachelor of Science (4-year Augmented)
• Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Agricultural Engineering)
• Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Electronic Engineering)
• Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Computer Engineering)

Admission requirements still apply

UKZN has stressed that meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee placement. Applicants must still satisfy the specific subject and APS (Admission Point Score) requirements for each programme. 

For science-based degrees, mathematics and physical sciences are usually compulsory, while commerce and humanities programmes may have different subject combinations.

International applicants and students transferring from other institutions are also advised to check additional requirements, including credit transfer policies and documentation deadlines.

How to apply for late applications

Late applications must be submitted online through the UKZN Portal. Applicants should ensure that all supporting documents, including certified copies of ID documents, academic transcripts and proof of results, are uploaded correctly.

UKZN has advised applicants to regularly monitor their application status online and to check official university communication channels for updates on available courses and closing dates.

Registration and funding considerations

Prospective students applying late are also urged to consider registration timelines and funding arrangements. NSFAS-funded students must ensure that their funding applications are approved and linked to UKZN. 

Self-funded students should be prepared to pay the required registration fees within the stipulated period if an offer is made.

Late applicants who receive offers close to the start of the academic year may need to act quickly to secure accommodation, particularly on-campus residences, which are often limited.

Final advice to applicants

Education experts recommend that applicants applying late keep alternative options in mind, including other universities and TVET colleges, in case their preferred UKZN programme reaches capacity. Applicants should also ensure that they apply only for programmes aligned with their academic strengths and career goals.

As competition for university spaces remains high nationwide, UKZN’s late application window for bachelor’s courses presents a valuable opportunity for determined students seeking to begin their studies in 2026. 

Prospective applicants are encouraged to apply promptly and rely only on official UKZN channels for accurate and up-to-date information.