The University of Zululand (UniZulu), based in KwaZulu‑Natal, South Africa, processes all first-year undergraduate applications through the Central Applications Office (CAO). 

All postgraduate and international applications also use CAO or the official portal, depending on the category.

When do UniZulu applications open for the 2026 academic year?

Applications open on 1 March 2025, aligning with the CAO’s intake cycle for the 2026 academic year.

What are the submission deadlines for UniZulu?

  1. All first-year applications (undergraduate and postgraduate) must be submitted by 30 September 2025 for on-time processing.
  2. Late applications may be accepted until early November 2025 with higher late fees, subject to course availability.

What admission requirements does UniZulu enforce for undergraduate applicants?

Applicants must hold a valid National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Bachelor’s pass.

Each programme specifies a minimum Admission Point Score (APS), typically ranging from 22 (Applied certificates) up to 30+ (Engineering, commerce, law). 

Maths, English, and subject-specific level requirements apply depending on the course.

What requirements apply to postgraduate and international students?

  1. Postgraduate applicants require a relevant bachelor’s degree, academic transcripts; some courses also require a CV or research proposal.
  2. International applicants must submit certified passport copies, SAQA evaluation for foreign qualifications, valid study permits, proof of financial means, and medical insurance—all upfront before registration.

How is the application submitted online to UniZulu?

  1. Visit the CAO website (www.cao.ac.za) 
  2. Register 
  3. Select UniZulu as your institution 
  4. Choose up to six programme choices 
  5. Upload certified documents 
  6. Pay the fee and submit the form.

What application fees apply?

  1. South African applicants: R250 (on time); late fee increases to R470 after deadline.
  2. International applicants: R300 (on time); R500 late fee where accepted.

How can I check my UniZulu application status?

  1. After submission, you receive a CAO reference number to track your status online.
  2. Final offers are communicated via email and the CAO portal; accepted offers must be followed by registration steps on the UniZulu portal.
  3. After receiving a firm offer, international applicants must provide original sponsorship/proof of funds to finalize registration
1. When do UniZulu applications open?
Applications open on 1 March 2025 via the CAO online portal at www.cao.ac.za.
2. What is the deadline to apply?
All applications must be submitted by 30 September 2025. Late applications may be accepted until early November with additional fees.
3. How much is application fee?
SA applicants: R250 (R470 if late). International: R300 (R500 if late).
4. Can I apply for multiple programmes?
Yes—you may select up to six programme choices via CAO, ranked by your preference.
5. What APS score is required?
APS thresholds vary by programme. For example: BCom = 28, B Nursing = 30, Engineering = 30+. See the UniZulu prospectus for full details.
6. What documents are needed?
Upload certified copies: ID/passport, final school results (Grade 11 or NSC), proof of payment, transcripts for if applicable.
7. How do international applicants apply?
Apply via CAO and upload passport, SAQA evaluation, study permit, proof of funds, and medical insurance before registration.
8. When do I hear back?
Offers are made via CAO portal and email. Follow up directly if status remains unchanged after a few weeks.
9. Is a late application possible?
Late applications may be accepted until early November, depending on programme capacity and after payment of additional fees.
10. Who can I contact for help?
Email the UniZulu Admissions Office at [email protected] or call +27 35 902 6178 for support.