The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has officially opened its online applications for the 2027 academic year, giving prospective students across South Africa and beyond the opportunity to secure their place at one of the country’s leading institutions. The UKZN 2027 applications will close 31 October 2026.
The university confirmed that applications are now open for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes starting in 2027. Learners currently in Grade 12, as well as those who have already completed matric, are encouraged by UKZN to apply as early as possible to avoid last-minute complications.
2027 Online Applications
UKZN has reiterated that all applications must be submitted online through the Central Applications Office (CAO). No walk-in or manual paper applications will be accepted.
Prospective students are required to create an online profile, complete the application form, upload certified supporting documents and pay the application fee.
Required documents include a certified copy of an identity document or passport, Grade 11 final results and Grade 12 June or trial results for current matric learners. Those who have already completed Grade 12 must submit their final National Senior Certificate results.
Applicants are advised to ensure that all documents are clear, certified and uploaded correctly to avoid delays in processing.
Competitive Admission Process
As one of South Africa’s top research-intensive universities, UKZN receives thousands of applications each year. Admission is competitive, particularly in high-demand programmes such as Health Sciences, Law and Engineering.
Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Selection is based on academic performance, available space and specific faculty requirements. Some programmes may require additional assessments, portfolios or interviews.
Education experts warn that many applicants make the mistake of waiting until closing dates to submit their applications. Late submissions are not considered, and incomplete applications may result in automatic disqualification.
Campuses Across KwaZulu-Natal
UKZN operates across five campuses in the province: Edgewood (Pinetown), Howard College (Durban), Medical School (Durban), Pietermaritzburg and Westville (Durban). Each campus specialises in different faculties and programmes, offering students a wide range of study options.
The institution offers qualifications across its four main Colleges: Agriculture, Engineering and Science; Health Sciences; Humanities; and Law and Management Studies.
Important Dates and Deadlines
While the university will officially close their 2027 online applications on the 31st of October 2026, prospective students are urged to familiarise themselves with specific programme closing dates, as these vary by faculty. Competitive programmes often close earlier than others.
Applicants are encouraged to monitor official communication from the university after submitting their applications. All correspondence, including offers and requests for additional information, will be sent electronically.
Financial Aid and Funding
Students who intend to apply for financial assistance are reminded that university admission and funding applications are separate processes. Qualifying students may apply for funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) once its application window opens.
Prospective students are advised to apply for funding as soon as funding applications open, as financial aid is subject to eligibility criteria and available resources.
Early Preparation Key to Success
Education analysts say early preparation remains the key to a successful university application. Learners are encouraged to research programme requirements carefully, calculate their Admission Point Score (APS), and ensure that subject combinations meet faculty criteria before applying.
With the 2027 academic year still over a year away, UKZN’s early opening provides ample time for prospective students to plan, gather documents and submit strong applications.
As competition for university spaces continues to intensify nationally, timely and accurate applications could make the difference between acceptance and disappointment.
Prospective students are urged to consult UKZN’s official platforms for verified information and to avoid relying on unverified social media posts.
