Choosing a university is one of the most important decisions you will ever make, and it can feel overwhelming. The good news is that the University of Zululand (UNIZULU) has been opening doors for South African students for decades — and applications for the 2027 academic year are now officially open.
Whether you are a Grade 12 learner, a parent guiding your child, or a youth looking for a second chance at higher education, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know — step by step, in plain language.
Read: List of all South African Universities
What Makes UNIZULU a Great Choice?
- Comprehensive university: Offers approximately 252 accredited degrees, diplomas, and certificates.
- Rural access champion: The only comprehensive university north of the uThukela River in KwaZulu-Natal — built specifically to serve communities that need it most.
- Affordable fees: UNIZULU is known for keeping costs manageable, especially for NSFAS-funded students.
- Strong research culture: Home to a Science Centre and multidisciplinary research recognised locally and internationally.
- Career-focused programmes: Courses are designed with employers in mind.
UNIZULU Campuses: Where Will You Study?
UNIZULU operates across two campuses in KwaZulu-Natal:
| Campus | KwaDlangezwa Campus (Main) |
| Location | KwaDlangezwa, KwaZulu-Natal (near Empangeni) |
| Qualifications | Bachelor’s degrees, Honours, Master’s, Doctoral programmes |
| Contact | Tel: 035 902 6715 / 035 902 6051 |
| admissions@unizulu.ac.za |
| Campus | Richards Bay Campus |
| Location | Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal |
| Qualifications | Certificates and Diploma programmes |
| Contact | Tel: 035 902 6178 / 035 902 6184 |
| admissions@unizulu.ac.za |
Official website: www.unizulu.ac.za
Courses Offered at UNIZULU
UNIZULU is a comprehensive university, meaning it offers both career-oriented programmes and traditional university degrees. Here is a breakdown by qualification type and faculty:
Faculty of Arts
- BA (Anthropology, History, Geography, Tourism, Zulu)
- BA Social Work (4 years)
- BA Industrial Sociology
- BA Communication Science
Faculty of Commerce, Administration & Law
- BCom Accounting
- BCom Economics
- BCom Business Management
- BAdmin Public Administration
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB) — 4 years
Faculty of Education
- BEd Foundation Phase Teaching
- BEd Intermediate Phase Teaching
- BEd Senior & FET Phase Teaching
- BEd Senior Management Sciences — EMS Teaching
Faculty of Science, Agriculture & Engineering
- BSc (Biochemistry, Microbiology, Zoology, Botany, Chemistry)
- BNursing Science (4 years)
- BEng Electrical Engineering
- BEng Mechanical Engineering
- BSc Hydrology / Agronomy
- BConsumer Science: Hospitality and Tourism
- BConsumer Science: Extension and Rural Development
- BSport Science
Diplomas & Higher Certificates (Richards Bay Campus)
- Diploma in Hospitality Management
- Diploma in Sport and Exercise
- Diploma in Logistics Management
- Higher Certificates in various fields
Important:
For a full list of all available courses and specific subject combinations, download the official UNIZULU 2027 Prospectus from www.unizulu.ac.za → Apply → Undergraduate Brochure.
Fee Structure for 2027
Important disclaimer: Fees quoted here are based on available 2025/2026 information and are provided as a guide only. UNIZULU reserves the right to change fees without prior notice. Always verify the official, up-to-date figures before registering.
What to Expect
- Registration Fee (Cash-paying students): Approximately R3 000 upfront before registration.
- Residence Registration Fee: Approximately R4 000 for students living in campus residences.
- Tuition fees: Vary by course and programme. Degree programmes differ significantly from diploma programmes.
- NSFAS-funded students: Do NOT pay the minimum initial payment — your funding covers this.
Where to Find the Official Fee Booklet
Do not rely on third-party websites for fees. Get the official, current figures directly from UNIZULU:
- Visit the official website: www.unizulu.ac.za
- Navigate to the “Fees” section on the main menu.
- Download the current Fees and Finance Booklet (PDF).
- For fee queries, email: fees@unizulu.ac.za or SMS your student number to 34763 with format: UZ [Student Number] B
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission to UNIZULU, you must meet the National Senior Certificate (NSC) minimum requirements. Here is what matters:
Basic NSC Requirements for ALL Programmes
- Minimum 30% in the language of learning and teaching (English, as certified by Umalusi).
- An achievement rating of 4 (50–59%) or higher in four subjects from the recognised 20-credit NSC subjects.
- A Bachelor’s Pass (Matric Endorsement) is required for degree programmes.
How APS (Admission Point Score) is Calculated
UNIZULU calculates your APS using your six best subjects. Life Orientation (LO) is NOT included in this calculation.
Each subject achievement level converts to APS points as follows:
| 80–100% (Level 7) | 7 points |
| 70–79% (Level 6) | 6 points |
| 60–69% (Level 5) | 5 points |
| 50–59% (Level 4) | 4 points |
| 40–49% (Level 3) | 3 points |
| 30–39% (Level 2) | 2 points |
| 0–29% (Level 1) | 1 point |
Minimum APS by Programme Type
- Diploma programmes: Generally APS 24–26 (e.g., Diploma in Hospitality, Sport & Exercise).
- General BA / BCom degrees: Generally APS 28.
- BEd (Education degrees): APS 30, with English at Level 4 and relevant teaching subjects.
- BNursing Science: APS 30, with Life Sciences at Level 4.
- BEng (Engineering): APS 30, with Mathematics Level 5 and Physical Science Level 5.
- LLB (Law): APS 30+ with strong English performance.
Remember:
Meeting the minimum APS does NOT guarantee admission. Popular programmes have limited spaces and may be highly competitive. Always check the official UNIZULU prospectus for exact, course-specific subject requirements before applying.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for UNIZULU 2027
All undergraduate applications for the 2027 academic year are submitted through the Central Applications Office (CAO) — not directly through UNIZULU. This system allows you to apply to multiple KZN institutions using one form and one payment.
Key Application Dates for 2027 Entry
| Applications Open | 1 March 2026 |
| General Closing Date | 30 September 2026 (all programmes) |
| Health Sciences deadline | May close earlier — check CAO portal |
| Late Application Deadline | 31 October 2026 (higher fee applies) |
| CAO Application Fee | R250 (on time) / doubles for late applications |
How to Apply: Step by Step
- Visit the CAO portal: www.cao.ac.za and click ‘Apply Now’.
- Register your profile: Enter your ID number, create a password, and confirm your email. You will receive a CAO Number, Password, and EasyPay Number — keep these safe.
- Complete the application form: Select your preferred UNIZULU courses. Tip: place UNIZULU as your first or second choice if it is your top preference — the university gives priority to top-choice applicants.
- Upload your documents: Attach certified copies of your ID, matric results (or Grade 11 mid-year results if you are still in school), and proof of payment.
- Pay the application fee: Pay online via the CAO website, or use your EasyPay number at Checkers, Pick n Pay, Shoprite, or Woolworths.
- Track your application: Log in to www.cao.ac.za to check your application status. If accepted, you will receive a ‘Firm Offer’ from UNIZULU.
Financial Aid & NSFAS Funding
Worrying about how to pay for university? The good news is that UNIZULU is a NSFAS-accredited institution, which means qualifying students can apply for government funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme.
What NSFAS Covers at UNIZULU
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation (on or off campus, within approved amounts)
- A living allowance for food and transport
- A laptop/book allowance for learning materials
Important: NSFAS-funded students do not pay the upfront registration fee at UNIZULU.
Who Qualifies for NSFAS?
- South African citizens with a household income of R350 000 per year or less.
- Students with disabilities may have additional support available.
- You must be registered for a first undergraduate qualification (no second qualifications).
Read: How to apply for NSFAS
Postgraduate Applications
UNIZULU also accepts postgraduate applications (Honours, Master’s, Doctoral) for 2027. Unlike undergraduate applications, postgraduate students may apply directly to UNIZULU using the ADM01 and PGRD2 application forms, available from:
- www.unizulu.ac.za/apply/application-forms
- Or contact the Admissions Office directly (details below).
UNIZULU 2027 Prospectus
The official UNIZULU Prospectus is your single most important document. It contains:
- Full list of all undergraduate courses and qualifications
- Exact APS requirements per programme
- Subject-specific entry requirements per faculty
- Application procedures and important dates
- Information about student support, residences, and campus life
Download the official 2026 Undergraduate Brochure (the 2027 version will be uploaded once finalised) at:
www.unizulu.ac.za/apply → Undergraduate Brochure
Conclusion & Official Contact Details
Starting your university journey is brave and exciting. UNIZULU was built for students just like you — from all walks of life, from all corners of KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. Whether you dream of becoming a nurse, a teacher, an engineer, a lawyer, or a social worker, there is a programme here that can take you there.
Do not wait for the perfect moment — the perfect moment is right now. Apply early, prepare your documents, and take that first step toward the future you deserve.
Official UNIZULU Contact Details
Admissions Office — KwaDlangezwa CampusWebsite: www.unizulu.ac.za
Admissions Email: admissions@unizulu.ac.za
Manager (KwaDlangezwa): ManeliV@unizulu.ac.za
Tel (Admissions): 035 902 6715 / 035 902 6051
Tel (Additional): 035 902 6178 / 035 902 6184 / 035 902 6361
Fees Enquiries: fees@unizulu.ac.za | SMS: 34763 format: UZ [StudentNo] B
CAO Portal: www.cao.ac.za
Disability Support Unit: 035 902 6398 | 064 769 1923 (Call/WhatsApp) | MjaduP@unizulu.ac.za
Disclaimer: This guide is based on information available at the time of writing (March 2026) and is intended for informational purposes only. Application dates, fees, and admission requirements are subject to change. Always verify details directly with UNIZULU or the CAO before making decisions. This guide does not constitute official admission advice.
