The University of KwaZulu-Natal is one of South Africa’s major public universities, and many learners are preparing to apply for the 2027 academic year.
If you want to apply to UKZN for undergraduate studies, you must understand where to apply and how much the application fee is. First-time undergraduate applicants must apply through the Central Applications Office, commonly known as CAO.
How Much Is the UKZN Application Fee for 2027?
For first-time undergraduate applicants, UKZN applications are submitted through CAO, and the CAO administration fee applies.
The CAO fee structure lists the on-time application fee as R250 for South African applicants and R300 for international applicants for applications received on or before the relevant closing date.
This means applicants should budget:
South African applicants: R250
International applicants: R300
Applicants should always confirm the latest CAO fee on the official CAO website before paying, especially if applying after the normal closing date.
Does UKZN Use CAO for Applications?
Yes. UKZN confirms that first-time entering students must apply via the Central Applications Office for 2027 undergraduate applications.
This means first-time undergraduate applicants should not submit their application directly to UKZN unless they are applying under a category where UKZN specifically allows direct applications.
UKZN 2027 Application Closing Dates
UKZN has confirmed the following closing dates for 2027 undergraduate applications:
Medicine: 30 June 2026
All other undergraduate programmes: 30 September 2026
First-time entering students must apply through CAO.
When Must You Pay the UKZN Application Fee?
You should pay the CAO administration fee when submitting your CAO application.
CAO says applications and fully paid administration fees received on or before the advertised closing date receive the “on-time” status and priority consideration.
This means applicants should not wait until the last day to apply or pay.
What Happens If You Apply Late?
Late applications may cost more and may not receive the same priority as on-time applications.
CAO explains that applications and payments received on or before the advertised closing date receive the on-time fee status.
If you apply after the closing date, you should check the official CAO fee structure before paying because late fees may be higher.
Is the UKZN Application Fee Refundable?
The CAO application fee is an administration fee. Applicants should not assume it will be refunded if they change their mind, apply for the wrong programme or are not accepted.
Before paying, make sure that:
- You are applying for the correct academic year
- You selected UKZN as one of your institution choices
- You selected the correct programme
- Your personal details are correct
- Your documents are ready for upload
Documents Needed When Applying to UKZN
Besides paying the application fee, applicants must upload the required documents through CAO.
These may include:
- Certified copy of South African ID or passport
- Grade 11 results
- Grade 12 June, trial or final results, where available
- Matric certificate or statement of results, if already completed Grade 12
- Academic record, if previously studied at another institution
- Proof of payment
- Additional documents required by the selected programme
Missing documents can delay your application, even if you have paid the application fee.
How to Apply to UKZN for 2027
To apply to UKZN as a first-time undergraduate applicant:
- Visit the official CAO website.
- Start your online application.
- Select University of KwaZulu-Natal as one of your institution choices.
- Choose your preferred programme.
- Enter your personal and academic details.
- Upload the required supporting documents.
- Pay the CAO administration fee.
- Submit your application before the closing date.
- Track your application status online.
CAO allows applicants to apply to member institutions and track application progress online.
Is the Application Fee the Same as Registration Fees?
No. The application fee and registration fees are different.
The application fee is paid when submitting your CAO application. Registration fees, tuition fees and residence fees may apply later if you are accepted and register as a UKZN student.
Do not confuse the CAO application fee with full university study fees.
Common Payment Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants delay their own applications because of payment mistakes.
Avoid these errors:
- Paying the wrong amount
- Using the wrong payment reference
- Forgetting to keep proof of payment
- Applying through unofficial websites
- Paying someone who claims they can guarantee admission
- Waiting until the closing date to pay
- Assuming payment alone means your application is complete
Always apply through the official CAO process for first-time undergraduate UKZN applications.
Final Answer
The UKZN application fee for 2027 is paid through CAO.
The on-time CAO administration fee is R250 for South African applicants and R300 for international applicants. First-time undergraduate applicants must apply through CAO, upload all required documents and pay before the closing date.
UKZN Medicine applications close on 30 June 2026, while all other undergraduate programmes close on 30 September 2026.