By Levy Masiteng
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is preparing to admit more than 9 000 first-time entering students (FTENs) for the 2026 academic year, with firm offers set to be issued to successful applicants from next week.
This follows the official release of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) results scheduled for next Tuesday.
UKZN said it received an exceptionally high volume of applications, underscoring intense competition for limited study places.
“A significant number of provisional offers were issued last year, with the University receiving more than 326 546 applications. This figure reflects multiple programme choices per applicant for the 9 124 first-year places available in 2026,” the university said.
In the previous admissions cycle, UKZN received more than 290 000 individual applications for approximately 8 600 first-year places, illustrating demand that continues to far outstrip capacity.
The most sought-after programmes for 2026 are the Bachelor of Nursing, which received 27 763 applications; the Bachelor of Education, with 25 826 applications; and the Bachelor of Laws, which attracted 25 231 applicants.
UKZN’s Executive Director for Corporate Relations, Normah Zondo, said firm offers would be issued in batches once matric results are verified, provided applicants meet the conditions of their provisional offers.
Successful FTENs are urged to register within the official registration period, scheduled from 2 to 7 February.
Meanwhile, remote online registration for returning students opened on Tuesday and will close on 13 February.
Zondo said the university was well prepared for a smooth and orderly registration process.
“UKZN continues its annual practice of a strictly online registration process and urges prospective students to remain vigilant against registration scams,” she said.
She reiterated the university’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of its admissions system.
“Legal action will be taken against any individuals who misappropriate the University’s name, logo or symbols to defraud prospective students. Places at UKZN are not for sale.”
Applicants and members of the public were advised to rely only on information published on the official UKZN website and verified social media platforms to avoid misinformation and fraudulent offers.
According to UKZN’s 2024 Annual Report, the institution registered approximately 9 230 FTENs that year, reaffirming its position as a leading destination for South Africa’s school leavers.
Zondo added that all registered students will be required to present official proof of registration to access campus facilities.
The academic year is scheduled to begin with first-semester lectures on 9 February 2026.
INSIDE EDUCATION
