The KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing has officially opened applications for the 2027 Diploma in Nursing Programme. If you are passionate about healthcare and want to become a professional nurse, this three-year programme offers the opportunity to gain the knowledge and clinical experience required to register with the South African Nursing Council (SANC).
Applications are online only, and interested applicants are encouraged to apply well before the closing date.
Programme Overview
- Institution: KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing
- Programme: Diploma in Nursing
- Qualification: Diploma in Nursing (NQF Level 6)
- Duration: 3 Years
- SAQA ID: 115826
- SANC Regulation: R171
- Reference Number: KZNCN 2/2026
- Province: KwaZulu-Natal
- Application Method: Online
- Closing Date: 31 August 2026
About the Programme
The KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing is the official nursing education institution of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health. The Diploma in Nursing prepares students to become competent professional nurses through a combination of classroom learning and extensive clinical training.
During the programme, students gain practical experience in:
- Public hospitals
- Primary healthcare clinics
- Community health centres
- Maternal and child healthcare
- Emergency healthcare
- Mental health services
Graduates who successfully complete the qualification may register with the South African Nursing Council (SANC) in accordance with the applicable regulations.
Minimum Admission Requirements
Applicants who completed Grade 12 before 2008
Applicants must have:
- National Senior Certificate (NQF Level 4)
- Minimum APS of 25 points
- Maximum of six relevant highest subject scores
Required subjects:
- English
- Higher Grade: E or better
- Standard Grade: D or better
- Biology, Physical Science, Chemistry or Physiology
- Higher Grade: E or better
- Standard Grade: D or better
- Mathematics
- Higher Grade: E or better
- Standard Grade: D or better
Applicants who completed Grade 12 from 2008 onwards
Applicants must have:
- National Senior Certificate
- Diploma Pass or higher
- Minimum APS of 25 points
Required subjects include:
- English Home Language – Level 4 or
- English First Additional Language – Level 3
- Mathematics – Level 3 or
- Mathematical Literacy – Level 5
- Life Sciences – Level 4 or
- Physical Sciences – Level 4
- Life Orientation – Level 4
Important: Life Orientation is compulsory but is not included when calculating the APS score.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must upload:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- Proof of residence or an affidavit confirming residential address
- Signed affidavit from a Commissioner of Oaths confirming that the applicant has not previously benefited from the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health bursary system at the KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing
Failure to upload all required documents may result in disqualification.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing application portal.
Before submitting your application:
- Complete all required application fields.
- Upload all supporting documents.
- Ensure your contact details are correct.
- Review your application carefully.
- Submit before the closing date.
Please note:
- Hand-delivered applications will not be accepted.
- Posted applications will not be accepted.
- Email applications will not be accepted.
- Only online applications will be considered.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Now
- Closing Date: 31 August 2026
Late applications are unlikely to be considered.
Important Checklist
Before applying, make sure that:
- You meet the minimum academic requirements.
- Your APS score is at least 25.
- You have a Diploma Pass (if applicable).
- Your certified ID and Matric certificate are ready.
- Your proof of residence is available.
- Your Department of Health bursary affidavit has been signed by a Commissioner of Oaths.
- You complete your application online before 31 August 2026.
The KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing receives a high number of applications each year. Applicants who meet all the requirements and submit complete applications before the deadline will have the best chance of being considered for the 2027 intake.
Conclusion
The KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing Diploma in Nursing Programme for the 2027 academic year offers a valuable opportunity for aspiring nurses to receive accredited training through the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health. With a three-year curriculum that combines theoretical learning and clinical practice, graduates will be well prepared to begin a professional career in South Africa’s healthcare sector.
If you meet the minimum admission requirements, ensure that you prepare all the required supporting documents and submit your online application before the 31 August 2026 closing date. Because only online applications will be accepted, it is advisable to apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues. Carefully review your application before submitting it, as incomplete applications or missing documents may result in disqualification.
