UKZN Application 2026

apply to UKZN

UKZN Application Breakdown

Note: Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible in the application cycle.  Applications close at the end of June for all medical programmes and at the end of September for all other programmes.  If you’re applying for second semester studies, applications close at the end of April.  Late applications may be accepted if entrance requirements are met and there is still space available.

Before you begin applying online or in hardcopy, have a look at our infographic on Things to Remember Before Applying.

Have you calculated your APS? You’ll need to do this before applying.  Find out how here.

Apply to UKZN using the online application

Things to note before applying online to UKZN:

  1. You’ll need an email address to complete the application. Don’t have one? Get an email address first.
  2. South African applicants will need an ID number.  Foreign applicants will need their passport number.
  3. Need accommodation?  You will be able to indicate this on the application form.
  4. The UKZN application process makes use of the Central Applications Office (CAO).  You will need to submit your application through this portal.
  5. Make sure your documents are ready to upload before starting the application process.
  6. Please note that if you are an international student, you will need to apply directly to the university.  Also, only international students from SADC countries will be permitted to apply for medicine.  

How to Apply Online

UKZN has an online application portal for all applicants.  It is important that you apply using the correct application portal through the CAO.

  • UKZN Online Application for New South African Applicants

Apply to UKZN using the hardcopy application

Things to note before applying with a hardcopy form:

  1. You will need to pay the application fee and attach a copy of the deposit slip.
  2. International Students will have additional sections to complete.
  3. There are two separate application forms for undergraduate and postgraduate applicants.
  4. Need accommodation?  You will be able to indicate if you need student accommodation on your application form.

You can send your completed application form to the following address:

University of KwaZulu-Natal
Applications and Information Office
Durban
4041

  • Download UKZN Undergraduate Application Form
  • Download UKZN Postgraduate Application Form

Don’t forget to write the NBT Test

This institution requires you to write a National Benchmark test (NBT) as part of your application. Find out more information about the NBT tests here. Get on it now!

FIND OUT MORE

Apply to UKZN Residence

You will be able to indicate whether you would like student accommodation on your application form.  Please note that applying for student housing is part of your academic application process.  There is no separate application necessary.  UKZN RES INFORMATION

SUGGESTED

Find funding to study at UKZN

Visit our library of funding opportunities.  Feel free to browse through and apply to opportunities that suit you.  Finding funding can really be that easy.FIND FUNDING

Application Fees for UKZN

South African applicants will need to pay a non-refundable application fee of R240.  International applicants will need to pay a fee of R300.  

late application fee of R465 will need to be paid by South African applicants while a R575 late application fee will need to be paid by international students. 

Submitting of Results and Documents

Here are the basics: you will need to submit a copy of your latest academic results as soon as possible.  Failure to submit these results might delay your application process.  

Are you a transferring student?  If yes, you will need to make sure all your transcripts and academic records to date are submitted to the applications department as soon as possible.  This is pretty important.  

UKZN may make conditional offers based on excellent grade 11 marks or latest academic results.  Once the institution has received final grade 12 marks, they will make all final offers.  The CAO will send applicants an offer via SMS.

Contact the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal:

For more information on how to apply to UKZN, you can visit their website.

Alternatively, you can contact the UKZN Admissions Department using the following details:

Email: undergrad@ukzn.ac.za
Tel: (031) 260 8596

Need Information or Confused about Something ?

Ask a Question

 


Sponsored Guide


Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.


📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
  • Have a valid South African ID.
  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.
  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.
  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.
  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
    • Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.
  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.
  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.


💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).


🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.


🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information


📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.