UKZN Application Opening Dates 2026 | When to Apply
UKZN 2026 applications for the 2027 intake open April 1, 2026 and close September 30, 2026. Full guide to applying for 2027 intake at UKZN — APS, deadlines, and online portal.
UKZN Application Opening Dates 2026
Are UKZN (University of KwaZulu-Natal) applications currently open? This guide covers the exact application dates for UKZN's 2027 intake, how to apply, and what you need to know about the admission process.
UKZN 2026 Application Key Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open (2027 intake) | April 1, 2026 |
| Application Closing Date | September 30, 2026 |
| NBT Registration Deadline | October 2026 (last test date) |
| Offer of Admission Notifications | November–December 2026 |
| Registration (2027 academic year) | January 2027 |
Note: Some UKZN programmes (including Medicine) may have earlier closing dates. Always verify on the official UKZN website: www.ukzn.ac.za.
Is UKZN Open for 2026 Applications?
Applications for the 2027 academic year are expected to open in April 2026. Applications for the current 2026 academic year are now closed. If you're applying for 2027 entry, you should plan to submit your application between April 1 and September 30, 2026.
UKZN Campuses and Faculties
| Campus | Location | Key Faculties / Colleges |
|---|---|---|
| Howard College | Durban | Engineering, Law, Health Sciences (Medicine), Built Environment |
| Westville Campus | Durban | Commerce, Social Sciences, Education, Management Studies |
| Pietermaritzburg (PMB) | Pietermaritzburg | Agriculture, Humanities, Science & Agriculture, Education |
| Edgewood Campus | Pinetown, Durban | Education |
| Nelson R. Mandela Medical School | Durban | Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing |
UKZN APS Requirements 2026
| Programme / College | Minimum APS |
|---|---|
| Medicine (MBChB) | 38+ |
| Dentistry (BDS) | 36+ |
| Pharmacy (BPharm) | 30+ |
| Nursing (BCurNurs) | 24+ |
| Engineering (BE) | 30+ |
| Law (LLB) | 30+ |
| Commerce (BCom) | 26+ |
| Education (BEd) | 24+ |
| Humanities (BA) | 22+ |
| Science (BSc) | 26+ |
| Agriculture | 22+ |
Use our free APS Calculator to check your eligibility for UKZN.
How to Apply to UKZN Online
- Visit www.ukzn.ac.za and go to "Apply Now"
- Register for an applicant profile or log in if you already have one
- Select your campus, college, and programme
- Enter your personal details and academic results (Grade 11 or 12)
- Upload certified copies of your ID and academic documents
- Pay the application fee (approximately R270 for undergraduate applications)
- Submit and note your application reference number
NBT Requirements at UKZN
UKZN requires the National Benchmark Tests (NBT) for most programmes:
- Academic Literacy (AL) — for all undergraduate applicants
- Quantitative Literacy (QL) — for Commerce, Science, Engineering, Health Sciences
- Mathematics (MAT) — for Engineering and some Science programmes
Register for NBT at www.nbt.ac.za. Write early — test centres fill up.
UKZN Application Tips
- Apply in April — don't wait for September. Early applicants have a better chance for competitive programmes
- Write NBT early — schedule your NBT as soon as applications open
- Apply for NSFAS simultaneously — NSFAS applications typically open in October. Start preparing documentation now
- Check multiple campuses — if Howard College fills up, PMB or Westville may still have space for your programme
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Frequently Asked Questions
When does UKZN open applications for 2026?
UKZN applications for the 2027 academic year open approximately April 1, 2026 and close September 30, 2026. Applications for the 2026 academic year are now closed. Visit www.ukzn.ac.za to apply for 2027 entry.
Is UKZN open for 2026 applications?
Applications for entry in January 2026 are now closed. If you want to study at UKZN in 2027, applications will open around April 1, 2026. You can apply online at www.ukzn.ac.za and should apply as early as possible.
How much is the UKZN application fee?
The UKZN application fee for undergraduate applicants is approximately R270. This is a non-refundable fee payable when you submit your online application. Check the current fee at www.ukzn.ac.za.
Does UKZN require NBT?
Yes, UKZN requires NBT (National Benchmark Tests) for most programmes. Academic Literacy (AL) is required for all undergraduate applicants. Quantitative Literacy (QL) and Mathematics (MAT) tests are required for Commerce, Science, and Engineering. Register at www.nbt.ac.za.