University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

The University of KwaZulu-Natal, known as UKZN, is a large research university with campuses in Durban, Pinetown and Pietermaritzburg. It came into being on 1 January 2004, when two older universities merged. First-time undergraduate students apply through the Central Applications Office, rather than directly to the university.

About UKZN

UKZN formed through the merger of the University of Durban-Westville and the University of Natal. Both institutions had long histories in the province, and the merger brought their campuses, staff and programmes together under one name. Pietermaritzburg was the historic home of the former Natal University College.

Campuses

The university operates from five campuses. Howard College and Westville are both in Durban, while the Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine is also in Durban, close to the city's main hospitals. Edgewood in Pinetown is the main site for teacher education, and Pietermaritzburg is the university's historic campus in the provincial capital. Your campus therefore depends on the qualification that you choose.

Applying to UKZN

If you are applying for the first time, you apply through the Central Applications Office, or CAO, which handles applications for several KwaZulu-Natal institutions. For the 2027 intake, applications to the Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine closed on 30 June 2026. Most other programmes closed on 30 September 2026, and UKZN did not accept late applications.

Fees for applying run through the CAO system. UKZN's 2027 prospectus gives a CAO fee of R250 for applications made before 31 October 2026, and R470 from 1 November 2026. You pay it once to the CAO, however many institutions you choose.

Fees and funding

UKZN publishes a local fees guide each year, with tuition and residence costs by programme. You should also budget for transport if you live off campus. Qualifying students can apply for NSFAS. You can see bursaries linked to the university on the UKZN provider page, and you can compare other options on our bursaries page.

Contacting UKZN

Student Academic Administration handles general enquiries on 031 260 2248. Student Financial Services, which deals with fee questions, can be reached on 031 260 7111 on weekdays between 08:30 and 15:30.

Is UKZN right for you?

UKZN suits students who want to stay in KwaZulu-Natal and study at a large research university. Since it shares the CAO system with other institutions, you can list several choices on one form.

Before you apply to UKZN

Start by checking UKZN's undergraduate prospectus for the points score and subject levels your programme needs. Then rank your CAO choices carefully, because the order tells the system which programme you prefer. Medicine closes three months before most other programmes, so plan for that date if you are aiming for the medical school. Keep your CAO reference number, since you need it to follow up on your application.