University of Zululand (UNIZULU) | 2026 Applications

Application Information

IMPORTANT: All UNIZULU applications are processed through the Central Applications Office (CAO). The CAO application fee is R250.

Applications Open

01 March 2025

Applications Close

30 September 2025

For ALL programmes

Time Remaining

Calculating...

Application Fee

R250 (CAO fee)

APPLICATION PROCESS:

All undergraduate applications to UNIZULU must be made through the Central Applications Office (CAO) at www.cao.ac.za

CAO Contact: 031 268 4444

Apply via CAO Download Prospectus Requirements Bursaries

Welcome to UNIZULU

A leading comprehensive African university that thrives on quality and fosters collaborative and innovative cultures with its rural and urban campuses.

Embrace the rich tapestry of African wisdom and knowledge at the University of Zululand. Here, we celebrate the diversity of thought, fostering a vibrant community that values the essence of Ubuntu. Join UNIZULU on a journey where African perspectives shape the future.

Your journey with us is not just an education; it's a celebration of African thought, a symphony of ideas that resonate far beyond our borders. Unleash your potential, embrace your roots, and let your academic adventure begin!

UNIZULU Mission & Values (2022-2027)

Mission:

Produce globally competitive graduates relevant to the development needs of the country
Engage with society for the betterment of all

Core Values:

Discovery and pursuit of excellence

Through teaching, learning, research and innovation

Community of Belonging

We embrace all forms of diversity, social inclusion and elimination of social injustices

Teamwork

Working together to accomplish a common goal

Accountability

Subscribing to integrity and transparency

Why Study at UNIZULU?

Only Comprehensive University North of uThukela

The only comprehensive university serving the northern region of KwaZulu-Natal

Best Science Centre in Africa

State-of-the-art science facilities for cutting-edge research and learning

Recognizes Academic Excellence

Multiple merit bursaries and scholarships for high-performing students

Graduates in Key Positions

Produces graduates who occupy key positions in both public and private sectors

Community-Relevant Research

Undertakes research that addresses local community needs and challenges

Aspires to Quality Education

Committed to providing quality education as a leading comprehensive university

UNIZULU Campuses

Main Campus

KwaDlangezwa Campus

Focus: Degree programmes across four faculties

Services: Campus Clinic, HIV/AIDS Unit, Protection Services, Student Housing, Bureau for Sport and Recreation, Financial Aid Office, Centre for Co-operative Education and Entrepreneurial Training

Urban Campus

Richards Bay Campus

Established: 2009

Focus: Entrepreneurial partnerships and vocational programmes (Certificates and Diplomas)

Industry Focus: Maritime sector, paper, timber, engineering, sugar, construction and mining industries

Approach: Innovative entrepreneurial and industry-focused programmes supported by local and international collaborations

Admission Requirements

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Meeting the minimum admission requirements only means that you are eligible for selection, NOT that you will necessarily be accepted. Your application will only be considered if you qualify and meet the faculty requirements.

Minimum Admission Requirements:

a. Degree Programmes (NSC after 2007):

National Senior Certificate (NSC) with minimum 30% in language of learning and teaching
Achievement rating of 4 (50-59%) or better in four subjects from designated list
Designated subjects include: Accounting, Agricultural Sciences, Business Studies, Dramatic Arts, Economics, Engineering Graphics & Design, Geography, History, Consumer Studies, Information Technology, Languages, Life Sciences, Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, Music, Physical Sciences, Religion Studies, Visual Arts

b. Diploma Programmes (NSC after 2007):

NSC with minimum 30% in language of learning and teaching
Achievement rating of 3 (40-49%) or better in four recognized NSC 20-credit subjects
Achievement rating of 3 (40%) in Life Orientation
Achievement rating of 3 (40%) in English as First Additional Language, or 4 (50%) in English as Home Language

c. Higher Certificate Programmes:

NSC with minimum level 2 (30% or higher) in language of learning and teaching and one home language
Four recognized NSC 20-credit subjects

Special Cases:

Mature Age Certificate: Applicants 23+ years with Senior Certificate may qualify for conditional exemption
Foreign Conditional Exemption: International students should contact Matriculation Board

How to Calculate Your Admission Points

Points are calculated on the best six subjects excluding Life Orientation:

Table 1: National Senior Certificate (NSC)

%	Level	Points
100-90	7	8
89-80	7	7
79-70	6	6
69-60	5	5
59-50	4	4
49-40	3	3
39-30	2	2
29-0	1	1

How to Apply to UNIZULU

Step 1: Search Academic Programmes

Visit CAO website at www.cao.ac.za → Click "Programmes" → "Programme list"

Note: Richards Bay Campus offers Certificates and Diplomas; KwaDlangezwa Campus offers Degree programmes

Step 2: Check Application Fee & Dates

Applications Open: 1 March 2025

Applications Close: 30 September 2025 (ALL programmes)

CAO Application Fee: R250 (consult CAO booklet/website for payment methods)

Step 3: Apply Online via CAO

Grade 12 learners, international and transferring students apply at: https://cao.ac.za/Apply.aspx?content=Apply

Step 4: Prepare Required Documents

All applicants need: Certified ID, academic records, proof of application fee payment, matric results

International students additionally need: Valid passport & study permit, SAQA verification, proof of financial means

International Student Advice:

Foreign students are strongly advised to approach the South African Embassy in their home countries for requirements before coming to study in RSA. Alternatively, visit Department of Home Affairs at www.dha.gov.za

Bursaries & Financial Aid

Senior Merit Bursaries

Criteria:

Full-time registered undergraduate students in degree programmes
Passed 50% of modules by distinction, other 50% by first class passes/passes in previous year
No failed modules in that year
No alternative funding (except NSFAS) in same year

Matric Merit Bursaries

Criteria:

Passed matric with achievement levels 7 and 6 only
Applied for admission and accepted for full-time degree programme
Must enrol with UNIZULU
Must not fail any module or repeat a year to continue receiving bursary

Rector's Assistance for the Needy

Criteria:

Full-time registered student at UNIZULU
Average performance of 75-100% in previous year
Undergraduate programme
Submit proof of neediness
No alternative funding in same year
Provide proof of family situations (e.g., orphans)

Banking Details for Registration:

Bank: ABSA
Account Holder: UNIZULU
Branch Code: 632 005
Account Number: 18800 00051
Reference: Your Student Number

Financial Aid Bureau/NSFAS: +27 35 902 6307

Application Status & Registration

Tracking Your Application:

Track application on CAO website: www.cao.ac.za
Contact UNIZULU Admissions: 035 902 6715/6051/6178/6184 or [email protected]
Note: CAO does not select applicants - the University makes selections

Application Statuses:

Waiting for a decision: Application under review
Firm offer: Definitive acceptance
Conditional offer: Acceptance pending conditions (e.g., final results)
Regret: Application unsuccessful

Offers & Registration:

Selected applicants notified via SMS
Registration package includes: Letter, Information brochure, Acceptance Offer Form
Respond within prescribed period
Quote Student Number in all communications
Must receive Firm Offer to be eligible to register
Pay minimum initial registration deposit 4 days before registration

Accommodation:

Apply online at: resonline.unizulu.ac.za

UNIZULU Contact Details

Admissions Office

Tel: +27 35 902 6715 / 6051 / 6178 / 6184

Email: [email protected]

For application queries and admission requirements

Financial Aid Bureau

Tel: +27 35 902 6307

NSFAS and financial aid enquiries

Central Applications Office (CAO)

Tel: 031 268 4444

Website: www.cao.ac.za

All undergraduate applications

Accommodation

Online Application: resonline.unizulu.ac.za

Student residence applications

Important Links:

UNIZULU Website: www.unizulu.ac.za
CAO Application Portal: cao.ac.za/Apply.aspx
Matriculation Board (Foreign Students): www.hesa-enrol.ac.za/mb
Department of Home Affairs: www.dha.gov.za

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to UNIZULU?

All undergraduate applications to UNIZULU must be made through the Central Applications Office (CAO) at www.cao.ac.za. The application fee is R250. Applications open 1 March 2025 and close 30 September 2025.

What are the main campuses of UNIZULU?

UNIZULU has two campuses: KwaDlangezwa Campus (main campus offering degree programmes) and Richards Bay Campus (established in 2009, offering certificates, diplomas and vocational programmes with industry focus).

How are admission points calculated?

Points are calculated on your best six subjects excluding Life Orientation. For NSC: 80-100% = 7-8 points, 70-79% = 6 points, 60-69% = 5 points, etc. See the detailed points tables above for complete breakdown.

What bursaries are available at UNIZULU?

UNIZULU offers: 1) Senior Merit Bursaries for current students with excellent performance, 2) Matric Merit Bursaries for top matriculants, and 3) Rector's Assistance for needy students. See the Bursaries section above for detailed criteria.

What makes UNIZULU unique?

UNIZULU is the only comprehensive university north of the uThukela River, has the best Science Centre in Africa, undertakes community-relevant research, recognizes academic excellence through scholarships, and produces graduates in key positions. It embraces African thought and Ubuntu philosophy.

What documents do international students need?

International students need: valid passport/study permit, SAQA verification certificate, proof of financial means, medical insurance (Momentum or Compcare), certified final school results, and conditional exemption certificate if not SA matric. Contact SA Embassy or Department of Home Affairs for requirements.

How do I check my application status?

Track your application on the CAO website (www.cao.ac.za) or contact UNIZULU Admissions at 035 902 6715/6051/6178/6184 or [email protected]. Note that CAO does not select applicants - UNIZULU makes the selection.