UKZN APS 2027: How to apply via CAO with your points

If you want to study an undergraduate degree at the University of KwaZulu‑Natal (UKZN) in 2027, you must understand how the Admission Point Score (APS) works and how to apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO) in South Africa. 

The Admission Point Score (APS) is the total of your performance levels for six subjects from your final NSC results. 

Each subject is given a level based on your grade, and that level has a points value. 

UKZN does not include Life Orientation in the APS calculation. You must include:

1. Home language
2. First additional language
3. Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
4. Three other subjects (best results)

Then you add the point values for these six subjects.

UKZN APS Points Table

This table shows how your NSC percentage converts to APS points at UKZN.

NSC Percentage	NSC Level	APS Points
90% – 100%	8	8
80% – 89%	7	7
70% – 79%	6	6
60% – 69%	5	5
50% – 59%	4	4
40% – 49%	3	3
30% – 39%	2	2
0% – 29%	1	1

This table gives you a clear guide when calculating your APS for UKZN.

Step‑by‑Step Guide to Calculating Your UKZN APS

1. Collect Your Final NSC Results: Wait for your official matric certificate.
2. Select Your Six Subjects to Count:
   • Always include Home Language and First Additional Language.
   • Include Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.
   • Choose your best three remaining subjects (excluding Life Orientation).
3. Find the NSC Level: Check the NSC level (1–8) for each subject based on your percentage.
4. Convert Each Subject to APS Points: Use the APS table above for each subject.
5. Add the APS Points Together: Add all six APS point values.
6. Check Your Total APS: This is your UKZN APS for application purposes.

This total APS determines whether you meet the minimum requirement for your chosen degree programme.

How to Apply to UKZN via the CAO

All first‑time South African applicants must apply to UKZN through the CAO at www.cao.ac.za.

The CAO is the official admissions service for this and other universities.

Step‑by‑Step CAO Application

1. Go to www.cao.ac.za: This is the official CAO site where you will complete your application online.
2. Create Your CAO Profile: Register with your personal details and contact information.
3. Choose Your Programmes: You can list up to six choices. Make sure UKZN and your desired qualifications are included.
4. Enter Your Subjects and Results: Include your final NSC details as required.
5. Upload Required Documents: These include certified copies of your ID and matric certificate.
6. Pay the CAO Application Fee: A non‑refundable fee applies. Confirm the exact amount for 2027 on the CAO website.
7. Submit Your Application: Make sure all details are correct before submission.
8. Track Your Application: Use your CAO number to check your status online after submission.

Once CAO processes your application, it sends your results and documents to UKZN for selection.

UKZN APS Requirements for Popular Courses

Different programmes at UKZN require different minimum APS scores. 

Meeting the minimum does not guarantee placement because competitive programmes often require higher scores and additional criteria.

Health‑related Degrees

• Degrees like Medicine (MBChB) typically require a high APS score, strong performance in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences, and may require additional assessments.

Engineering and Science Degrees

• Science and Engineering programmes usually require Mathematics or Physical Sciences at good levels and APS scores above the basic threshold.

Commerce and Management

• Business‑related programmes often require APS scores around the mid‑range level with English and Mathematics as required subjects.

Humanities and Social Sciences

• Degrees in humanities may allow APS scores slightly lower than STEM programmes, but specific subject requirements still apply.

Remember that each faculty sets its own APS and subject requirements. 

Always verify the exact entry criteria for your chosen qualification in the current UKZN prospectus or CAO handbook.