Why Apply for University of Zululand 2026 Applications?

By | December 2, 2024
Where Dreams Become a Reality

Register with us for a promising future and challenging career prospects, across competitive industries. We believe in developing and nurturing creative minds and intellectual scholars with quality education appropriate to the needs of the country and the continent. The University of Zululand (UNIZULU) is a unique, comprehensive University based in the heart of Zululand, on the north coast of KwaZulu­-Natal and is traditionally known for developing communities north of Tugela. It is recognised for excellence in learning and teaching, community engagement projects and its multidisciplinary approach to local, national and international applied and collaborative research.

Established in 1960, UNIZULU has rapidly grown, servicing more than 15 000 full time and part time students in the faculties of Science and Agriculture; Commerce, Administration and Law; Education and Arts. The University’s Richards Bay and KwaDlangezwa campuses have been designed to enhance the students’ experience with state of the art computer labs, sports and recreational facilities and library access.

Students have access to 24 sports codes with several religious, academic and social bodies and societies based on both campuses. The University’s illustrious alumni include established achievers across government, health, arts, culture, law, education and commerce sectors. UNIZULU is innovative in its approach, providing a holistic tertiary education experience. It offers accredited graduate and undergraduate studies through career-orientated programmes across four disciplines.

The University’s International Linkages Office (ILO) enables students’ growth and development through intercontinental collaborative projects, partnerships, scholarships, experiential learning and exchange programmes. Over the years, the ILO has established 12 academic, corporate and government partnerships in Africa, the United States, Europe, Asia and Australia, and intends on broadening its current network.

As part of the University’s drive to increase learners’ interest in Science, Engineering and Technology, it hosts interactive exhibitions and programmes at its Science Centre in Richards Bay. The multifaceted centre celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2011 and is home to more than 130 exhibits. It is visited by 30 000 learners annually and is renowned for its interactive approach to educating community members and academics. The centre has received numerous accolades and achieved local, national and international recognition for its effort.

Our Campuses

The Kwadlangezwa Campus is home to the University’s four faculties and support services including the Campus Clinic, HIV/AIDS Unit, Protection Services, Student Housing, Bureau for Sport and Recreation, Financial Aid Office and the Centre for Co-operative Education and Entrepreneurial Training.

The Richards Bay Campus, established in 2009, is intended to focus on entrepreneurial partnerships and vocational programmes. This urban campus provides innovative entrepreneurial and industry-focused programmes that are supported by local and international collaborations. UNIZULU aims to provide vocational and technical courses geared to enhance the Richards Bay maritime sector and the paper,timber, engineering, sugar, construction and mining industries, among others. The Unversity’s new focus encapsulates the development of staff and students, ensuring our programmes and facilities are relevant, underpinned by new technologies, cutting edge knowledge and skills which are appropriate to the labour market and development of the country and continent.

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Outcome of the Application to study

The University is currently processing all applications and all applicants who have been selected will be sent sms notices and the official University Offer letter will follow later. However, applicants may contact the Admissions Office on 035 902 6178 / 035902 6361 if they have not received their offer letters and to update your contact and postal details.

Announcement

All applicants who for some reason did not take up our offer to study at the University of Zululand this year are strongly advised to re-apply via the CAO as those offers are no longer valid for the 2026 admission cycle.

If you are regretted then don’t panic just sms Central Application Clearing House to 49200 with your name and ID and they will call you click here to read more or visit their website at cach.dhet.gov.za/

Accept a Firm Offer

Please note that should you receive more than one (1) firm offer you need to make a choice and select one qualification only.To secure your place, please complete the supplied Acceptance Form attached to your firm offer letter, deposit R300 in the University bank account indicated on the form and return the completed form and deposit slip to the University by post, fax or email within 14 days of the date of this letter. Download Acceptance of offer form

Submit Metric Certificates

All First year registered students are expected to submit their matric certificates to the Admissions Office, Room 32 Ground Floor, Admin Building on or before 31 August.

All registered Senior Students who have to date not submitted their final matric certificates are also instructed to submit their matric certificates on or before the 31 August.

Please note, all students who failed to submit their matric certificates will NOT be allowed to register in 2026.

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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.