The University of KwaZulu‑Natal (UKZN) is a leading public university with five campuses across KwaZulu‑Natal.

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University of KwaZulu-Natal for 2027 Application

This guide explains how to apply via CAO and UKZN, deadlines, admission requirements, required documents, fees, and application tracking, based on official sources.

When does UKZN open applications for 2027?

South African first-time undergraduate applicants:
Applications open on 1 March 2026 via the Central Applications Office (CAO).

All other applicants (international, postgraduate, transfer, or returning students) apply directly through the UKZN portal at ukzn.ac.za.

What are the application deadlines for UKZN?

  • Medicine (MBChB): closes 30 June 2026 (no late applications accepted)
  • Other undergraduate programmes: closes 30 September 2026
  • Postgraduate programmes: deadlines vary by faculty; consult the postgraduate prospectus or relevant faculty page for exact dates

Who must apply via CAO and who applies via UKZN?

  • CAO: South African first-time undergraduate applicants at www.cao.ac.za
  • UKZN portal: International students, postgraduate applicants, returning students, and internal transfer applicants

What documents are required for a UKZN application?

Applicants must upload certified copies of the following:

  • South African ID or passport (for international students)
  • Grade 11 final or Grade 12 June results; or full NSC certificate
  • Academic transcripts for transfer or postgraduate applicants
  • SAQA evaluation certificate (if qualifications are from foreign institutions)
  • Proof of payment of application fee
  • English proficiency proof if required
  • Additional documents depending on programme, e.g., medical insurance, police clearance, or certificate of conduct for postgraduate applicants

How much does it cost to apply to UKZN?

South African undergraduate applications via CAO:

  • On-time submission: R250
  • Late application (from 1 November 2026): R420

International applicants via UKZN portal:

  • SADC / other African countries: R490
  • Outside Africa: approximately USD 153

How can I apply online to UKZN?

South African first-time undergraduates via CAO:

  1. Go to www.cao.ac.za and select 2027
  2. Complete personal details and select up to six programme choices
  3. Upload academic results and supporting documents
  4. Pay application fee using the provided reference (EasyPay or online payment)
  5. Finalise submission and obtain your CAO reference number

International, postgraduate, and transfer applicants via UKZN portal:

  1. Visit ukzn.ac.za → click UKZN Applications → Apply Now
  2. Register and complete all fields in the application portal
  3. Upload supporting documents and pay fees within the portal
  4. Submit your application and save your UKZN student number or reference

How do I track the status of my UKZN application?

  • Use your CAO reference number or UKZN student number / ID / passport at caocheck.ukzn.ac.za to check your application status
  • Status updates include “Awaiting decision” or “Offer made”
  • Applicants may follow up with CAO or UKZN admissions directly if updates are delayed
  • Official confirmation emails and SMS notifications are sent once offers are issued
1. When do UKZN applications open?
First‑time South African undergraduates can apply from 1 March 2026 via www.cao.ac.za. All other applicants (international, postgraduate, returning, or transfer students) apply via ukzn.ac.za.
2. What is the deadline for UKZN Medicine?
Medicine (MBChB) applications close on 30 June 2026. No late applications are accepted.
3. Who applies via CAO?
South African first-time undergraduate applicants use CAO. International, postgraduate, returning, and transfer students apply directly through the UKZN portal.
4. What documents are required?
Applicants must upload certified ID/passport, Grade 11 final or Grade 12 June results (or full NSC certificate), academic transcripts for transfers/postgraduates, proof of payment, and SAQA evaluation or English proficiency documentation if applicable.
5. How much is the application fee?
CAO applications for South African undergraduates cost R250 on time; late applications (from 1 November 2026) are R420. International applicants pay R490 (SADC/other African countries) or approximately USD 153 (outside Africa).
6. How do I apply online?
Use CAO for first-time South African undergraduates or the UKZN portal for all others. Register, complete personal and academic details, upload documents, pay the required fee, and submit through the relevant platform.
7. How do I track my application?
Check your status at caocheck.ukzn.ac.za using your CAO reference number or UKZN student number. Status updates and official offers are also sent via email or SMS.
8. Can I choose multiple programmes?
CAO applicants may select **up to six programme choices**. Other applicants must follow portal instructions for multiple study options.
9. Are late applications accepted?
Late applications are considered only if space remains in a programme. Strict deadlines apply for Medicine and other selective courses.
10. What happens if my CAO status remains “Awaiting decision”?
You can contact CAO or UKZN admissions. Delays usually occur due to document verification or high application volume. Official notifications are sent once offers are made.