By | April 4, 2025

University of KwaZulu-Natal UKZN Application For 2026 | Opening & Closing Dates

For first-time South African applicants to the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) for the 2026 academic year, applications must be submitted through the Central Applications Office (CAO) at www.cao.ac.za. International students should apply directly to UKZN via www.ukzn.ac.za. 

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

For South African Applicants:

  • Apply via CAO:All first-time South African applicants, including those transferring from other institutions, must apply through the CAO for entry into degree or diploma courses in the first semester (February 2026). 
  • CAO Website:Visit www.cao.ac.za for application forms and further information. 
  • Application Process:
    • Consult the CAO handbook for qualifications available at different institutions. 
    • Choose a program and find the corresponding program code. 
    • Use the program code when completing the CAO application form. 
  • Contact CAO:For inquiries, contact the CAO call center on +27 (0)31 268 4444 or 083 123 0000. 

For International Applicants:

  • Apply Directly to UKZN: International applicants must apply directly to UKZN via www.ukzn.ac.za. 
  • No Late Applications: No late applications will be accepted from international students. 
  • Contact UKZN: For inquiries, contact enquiries@ukzn.ac.za to request application material. 

Important Notes:

  • Online Applications: All UKZN applications are now done online. 
  • Application Fees: UKZN application fees are non-refundable. 
  • Second Semester Applications: Applications for the second semester (August 2026) are only for courses with available spaces and are open for returning students, internal transfers, and readmission. 
  • Application Forms: Application forms for internal transfers, returning students, and international returning students can be found on the Student Academic Administration website. 
  • Selection Procedure: Applicants with outstanding Grade 11, Grade 12 June, trial or mock results may be selected on submission of certified copies of their results. 
  • Status Check and Acceptance of Offer: You will receive a link and login details via email and SMS to access the UKZN Student iEnabler to indicate acceptance of one or more applications and to upload required documents. 
  • Late Applications: Late applications are not accepted for certain programs, including College of Health Sciences programs. 

More Admission Details