First-time applicants to the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO), so you can follow your application through both the CAO and UKZN's own systems. The steps below come from UKZN's student support portal and its 2027 prospectus.
The CAO keeps you informed
When you apply online, the CAO generates a CAO number, which you use for every institution you apply to. The CAO confirms by email that it has received your application, and it notifies you by SMS as soon as an institution makes a decision. UKZN then follows up with further correspondence.
UKZN's application status check
UKZN also runs an online application status check for CAO applicants on its website. Use it with your details to see where your UKZN application stands.
The Student Tracker
Once UKZN has given you a student number, you can track your application and registration with the Student Tracker:
- Go to UKZN's self-help login page.
- Enter your student number and PIN, then click Login.
- Open the Student Tracker option from the menu.
If you do not have your student number or PIN
- Forgot your student number: enter your ID number, passport number or email address, and UKZN sends your student number by email and SMS.
- No PIN: enter your student number and click Request a PIN. The PIN is sent to your cellphone or email.
You must reset a newly requested PIN before you can log in, and UKZN does not allow PINs with repeated digits.
Early and final offers
UKZN may make early conditional offers based on excellent Grade 11 results, or Grade 12 mid-year or trial results. Final offers come only once the NSC results are out in January. For many health sciences programmes, UKZN considers only applicants who list them among their first three CAO choices.
Closing dates
For the 2027 intake, Medicine closed on 30 June 2026 and all other programmes on 30 September 2026. The CAO fee is R250, or R470 for late applications from 1 November 2026. Your status can only update once the CAO has received both your application and your fee.
Changing your choices
To change your choices, you must tell the CAO in writing and pay an extra fee. Plan your order carefully from the start.
Getting help
UKZN's student support portal has answers to common questions and lets you log a query. For application questions, call Student Academic Administration on 031 260 2248, or the CAO on 031 268 4444. See the UKZN student portal page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check my UKZN application status?
Use UKZN's application status check, or the Student Tracker with your student number and PIN.
How will I hear about a UKZN decision?
The CAO notifies you by SMS, and UKZN follows up with further correspondence.
What if I forgot my UKZN student number?
Use Forgot Student Number with your ID, passport number or email address.