How to Apply to the University of Zululand

First-time undergraduate students apply to the University of Zululand (UNIZULU) online through the Central Applications Office (CAO), not directly to the university. The CAO handles applications for several institutions in KwaZulu-Natal, so one application can cover more than one of them. UNIZULU's 2026 undergraduate brochure lists the CAO application fee as R250.

Closing dates

For the 2026 intake, every UNIZULU faculty closed its applications on 31 October 2025, and the 2026 cycle opened on 1 March 2025. Check the CAO website for the current year's dates and for late applications. UNIZULU refers all questions about late applications and late fees to the CAO.

Step 1: Choose your programmes

Read UNIZULU's undergraduate brochure and decide which qualifications you want. Compare your results with the points and subject levels on the UNIZULU admission requirements page. Then rank your choices carefully on the CAO application.

Step 2: Prepare your documents

• A certified copy of your NSC or statement of results, or a certified Senior Certificate
• A copy of your ID

International applicants also need a passport, a study permit, medical cover, a certificate of conditional exemption if they do not have a South African matric, and certified final school results.

Step 3: Apply through the CAO

Complete the online CAO application and pay the CAO fee. For help with the application itself, contact the CAO on 031 268 4444.

Track your application

UNIZULU asks applicants to check their status on the CAO website, rather than contacting the university. If you want to change your programme choice, you also do it through the CAO.

Accepting an offer

You can accept only a firm offer, not a conditional one. Once you receive a firm offer, log in to iEnabler on the UNIZULU website and click the Accept Offer link. Then upload your documents through iEnabler: a certified copy of your ID, a certified copy of your NSC or matric statement and proof of residence.

Registration

In 2026, first-time entering students registered from 26 to 30 January, with orientation from 2 to 6 February. UNIZULU contacts you when you may register. Self-funded students must pay a residence deposit if UNIZULU offers them a room. Read more on the UNIZULU fees page.

Students with disabilities

If you have a disability, upload a medical report or a doctor's letter that explains it. UNIZULU's Disability Unit does not admit students, so follow the normal application process first. The unit provides its services once you are admitted.

Returning to study

If you took a gap year or are coming back to UNIZULU, you use the Returning Student Application Form instead. For 2026, this form had to be completed by 31 October 2025.