If you’re looking to study in 2026 and want to be part of a vibrant, community-rooted university that offers academic excellence and cultural pride, then the University of Zululand (UNIZULU) could be the perfect fit for you. Located in KwaDlangezwa, just outside Richards Bay in KwaZulu-Natal, UNIZULU offers a strong academic foundation across a wide range of programmes—and it’s especially well-known for producing graduates who serve their communities and drive regional development.
This step-by-step guide will help you understand exactly how to apply to UNIZULU for the 2026 academic year, what documents you’ll need, and what to expect after you apply. Whether you’re applying straight from matric or returning to continue your studies, this article is designed to guide you through the entire process with confidence.
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Why Choose the University of Zululand?
UniZulu is a comprehensive university that offers both traditional university degrees and university of technology programmes. With two campuses—KwaDlangezwa (main campus) and Richards Bay (urban campus)—the institution supports a diverse range of faculties and academic environments.
It’s particularly well-known for producing qualified professionals in education, social work, law, public administration, and the sciences. The university also offers a close-knit community feel, with a strong focus on values, tradition, and service to others—making it ideal for students who are looking for both academic opportunity and a strong sense of belonging.
UniZulu’s faculties include:
Education
Science, Agriculture and Engineering
Humanities and Social Sciences
Commerce, Administration and Law
Whether you’re passionate about teaching, business, agriculture, or research, UniZulu provides an accessible and affordable path to a meaningful career.
When Do UNIZULU Applications Open and Close?
Planning ahead is key to a successful application. For the 2026 academic year, UNIZULU is expected to open applications in May 2025. Here’s a breakdown of important dates:
Applications open: May 2025
Applications close: 30 September 2025
Closing date for residence applications: 30 September 2025
No late applications will be accepted
UNIZULU uses the Central Applications Office (CAO) to manage all undergraduate applications, so it’s important to keep an eye on both the UniZulu and CAO websites for any changes to these dates.
Who Can Apply?
UNIZULU welcomes a variety of applicants, including:
First-time university students (Grade 12 learners or those who have completed matric)
Students upgrading their qualifications or switching institutions
TVET college students or diploma holders who want to further their studies
International students with equivalent school-leaving qualifications
You’ll need to ensure that you meet the minimum entry requirements for the course you’re applying for—including the required Admission Point Score (APS) and specific subjects, like Mathematics or Physical Science where applicable.
How to Apply to UNIZULU: Step-by-Step
Now that you know why UniZulu could be a great fit for you, let’s go through the step-by-step application process to make sure you don’t miss anything important.
1. Decide What You Want to Study
Start by researching the courses offered by UniZulu. You can find the full list of undergraduate qualifications on the university’s website or directly through the CAO handbook.
Each programme has its own requirements, so be sure to check for:
Specific subject requirements (e.g., Mathematics, English, Life Sciences)
Whether additional selection tools are needed, such as interviews or portfolios
If you’re still unsure about which career path to follow, check out FundiMatch—a free online tool that helps you discover which courses best suit your personality, interests, and school subjects. It’s a great way to narrow down your choices and feel more confident in your application.
2. Get Your Documents Ready
Before you begin the online application process, it’s important to have all your supporting documents ready. This helps prevent delays or a rejected application.
Here’s what you’ll need:
A certified copy of your ID or passport (for international applicants)
Certified copy of your latest results: Grade 11 final and/or Grade 12 June/Trial results (if you’re still in matric)
If you’ve already completed matric: certified copy of your final NSC or NCV results
Academic transcripts and conduct certificates if you’ve studied at another university or college
Proof of payment for the CAO application fee
A valid email address and cellphone number
Make sure that all documents are certified within the last three months, and that scanned copies are clear and legible.
3. Apply Online via CAO
All applications to UniZulu must be submitted through the Central Applications Office (CAO). Here’s how to do it:
Visit www.cao.ac.za
Click on “Apply” and create your CAO profile
Select UniZulu as one of your institution choices
Choose up to six programmes to apply for, ranking them in order of preference
Upload your certified documents
Pay your application fee and upload proof of payment
The application fee for 2026 is expected to be:
R250 for applications submitted on or before 30 September 2025
R470 for late applications (although UniZulu does not accept late applications, so don’t risk it)
You’ll receive a CAO reference number once you’ve completed the process—keep it safe so you can track your application status.
After You Apply
Once you’ve submitted your application and uploaded all the necessary documents, the waiting game begins—but that doesn’t mean you can switch off completely. Here’s what happens next, and what you need to keep an eye on.
Track Your Application
You can track your application status by logging in to the CAO portal with your CAO reference number. Be sure to check your email and SMS notifications too—UniZulu may contact you if they need extra documents or to notify you of your status.
Offers and Acceptance
If your application is successful, you’ll receive a firm offer (if you already meet all requirements) or a conditional offer (pending final matric results). You’ll need to accept the offer on the CAO system before the deadline stated.
If you’re not accepted for your first-choice programme, you may still be considered for your second or third choice, depending on availability and your results.
Registration
Once you’ve accepted your offer, UniZulu will share details about how and when to register. Registration usually takes place in January or early February, just before the new academic year begins.
Final Tips for Applying to UNIZULU
You’ve done the research and made your decision—now it’s time to get everything over the finish line. These final tips can help make sure your application is complete and competitive:
Apply early. Don’t wait until the last minute—some courses fill up fast.
Double-check your documents. Make sure they’re certified, clear, and current.
List your programmes wisely. Rank them in order of your true preferences.
Track your application. Stay in the loop so you don’t miss any updates.
Don’t forget residence. Apply for student accommodation early if needed.
Need Help Funding Your Studies? Let Fundi Support You
Worried about how you’ll cover your tuition, registration, books, or even living expenses at UniZulu? Fundi offers student loans designed to help you manage the cost of higher education—so you can focus on what matters most: your future.
It’s quick and easy to apply:
Head over to the Fundi website
Select the loan option that works best for you
Fill in your details and submit your application
After that, a Fundi consultant will get in touch to guide you through the rest. Whether you’re starting your first year or returning to complete your studies, Fundi can help you take the next step with confidence.
