Are you planning to study at one of South Africa’s top universities? Good news—UKZN is still accepting applications for the 2026 academic year! The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes designed to equip students for success in their careers and communities.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about UKZN 2026 applications, including how to apply, available courses, entry requirements, and how to calculate your APS score.

Why Choose the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)?

Here are a few reasons why thousands of students choose UKZN every year:

• Top-ranked African University: Recognised for excellence in teaching and research.

• Over 100 Years of Academic Excellence: UKZN celebrated its centenary in 2010.

• Scenic Campuses: Located in the beautiful province of KwaZulu-Natal.

• Research-Driven: A strong emphasis on innovation and real-world problem solving.

Whether you’re interested in science, medicine, education, or the arts, UKZN offers the academic environment and resources to support your goals.

UKZN Campuses and Their Specialisations

UKZN has five campuses, each with distinct areas of academic focus:

• Edgewood Campus (Pinetown) – Education

• Howard College Campus (Durban) – Law, Engineering, Humanities

• Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine (Durban) – Health Sciences and Medicine

• Westville Campus (Durban) – Sciences, Management, and Health Sciences

• Pietermaritzburg Campus – Agriculture and Environmental Sciences

UKZN Undergraduate Courses for 2026 Applications

1. College of Agriculture, Engineering, and Science

Engineering Programmes

• BSc Engineering (Agricultural, Civil, Chemical, Computer, Electrical, Electronic, Mechanical)

• Duration: 4 years

• Requirements: NSC-Deg, Maths & Physical Science Level 5 (65%), English & LO Level 4

Agricultural Science

• BSc Agriculture (e.g. Plant Science, Agribusiness, Animal Science)

• Duration: 3–4 years

• Requirements: NSC-Deg, Maths Level 4, English Level 4, one science subject

Science Programmes

• BSc Environmental Science, Marine Biology, Geology

• Duration: 3 years

• Requirements: NSC-Deg, Maths + 1 Science Subject Level 4

• BSc Augmented Option available with Maths Level 3

2. College of Health Sciences

Medicine (MBChB)

• Duration: 6 years

• Requirements: NSC-Deg, Life Sciences, Maths, Physical Science Level 5, English & LO Level 4, 65% aggregate

Nursing and Allied Health

• BSc Nursing (4 years), BSc Medical Sciences, Audiology, Pharmacy, Optometry, Physiotherapy

• Requirements vary, most need Level 4–5 in Life Sciences, English, and Maths

3. College of Humanities

• BA General Studies – English Level 4, one elective Level 5

• Bachelor of Education (BEd) – Maths Lit Level 4 or Maths Level 3

• B Social Sciences – English Level 4, one elective Level 5

• BA in Music/Visual Art – Portfolio or audition may be required

4. College of Law and Management Studies

• LLB (Law) – English HL Level 5 or FAL Level 6, Maths Level 3 or Maths Lit Level 5

• Bachelor of Commerce / BBA / BBusSci – Maths Level 3–6 depending on stream

UKZN 2026 Application Requirements

To apply for an undergraduate programme at UKZN, you must meet the following minimum criteria:

• Pass at least 6 of your 7 subjects

• 40% in your Home Language

• 30% in the Language of Learning and Teaching (LOLT) at UKZN

• 50% in at least four other subjects (excluding Life Orientation)

Your Admission Point Score (APS) is a key part of the selection process. It’s calculated based on your performance in six best subjects.

How to Calculate Your UKZN APS Score

Your APS is calculated by adding the levels (1–7) of these subjects:

• English (Home or First Additional Language)

• Mathematics or Mathematics Literacy

• Your best 4 other designated subjects (excluding Life Orientation)

Example APS Calculation

Note: Different programmes have different APS requirements. Always refer to the latest prospectus for course-specific requirements.

Designated Subjects Accepted by UKZN

Designated subjects considered for APS include:

• Sciences: Physical Sciences, Life Sciences

• Commerce: Accounting, Business Studies

• Arts: Music, Visual Arts, Dramatic Arts

• Technology: Information Technology, Engineering Graphics

• Other: Agricultural Technology, Maritime Economics

How to Apply to UKZN for 2026

1. Visit the UKZN website: https://www.ww2.applications.ukzn.ac.za/

2. Register and complete the online application

3. Upload required documents, including:

   • Certified copy of ID

   • Latest school results

   • Proof of payment (application fee, if applicable)

4. Submit your application before the closing date

Tip: Keep your contact details up to date in case UKZN needs to get in touch.

Conclusion

If you’re serious about your future, don’t miss the opportunity to apply to one of South Africa’s most prestigious institutions. UKZN is still open for 2026 applications, but spaces fill up fast—apply as early as possible to secure your spot.

For more information about courses, requirements, and application guidelines, visit CourseMatch.co.za or check out the UKZN 2026 prospectus.