If you are planning to study at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in 2027, understanding the Admission Point Score (APS) requirements is one of the most important steps before submitting your application.
UKZN uses the APS system to assess whether applicants meet the minimum entry requirements for undergraduate programmes. Each faculty and qualification has its own APS range and subject requirements, so knowing where you stand can help you make informed study choices.
Although meeting the minimum APS requirement is important, admission remains competitive and depends on the number of available spaces and the quality of applications received.
How Does UKZN Calculate APS?
UKZN calculates your Admission Point Score using your National Senior Certificate (NSC) results.
The APS points are allocated as follows:
| NSC Level | Percentage | APS Points |
|---|---|---|
| Level 8 | 90% – 100% | 8 |
| Level 7 | 80% – 89% | 7 |
| Level 6 | 70% – 79% | 6 |
| Level 5 | 60% – 69% | 5 |
| Level 4 | 50% – 59% | 4 |
| Level 3 | 40% – 49% | 3 |
| Level 2 | 30% – 39% | 2 |
| Level 1 | 0% – 29% | 1 |
Remember that achieving the minimum APS does not automatically guarantee admission, especially for highly competitive programmes.
College of Law and Management Studies APS Requirements
Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting
- APS: 32–48
- Mathematics: Level 5
- English: Level 4
- Life Orientation: Level 4
- Duration: 3 years
Bachelor of Commerce (General)
- APS: 30–48
- Mathematics: Level 4
- English: Level 4
- Duration: 3 years
Students can specialise in:
- Marketing Management
- Supply Chain Management
- Information Systems and Technology
- Human Resource Management
- Finance
- Economics
- Public Administration
Bachelor of Administration
- APS: 28–48
- Mathematics: Level 3
- English: Level 4
- Duration: 3 years
Bachelor of Business Science
- APS: 33–48
- Mathematics: Level 6
- English: Level 4
- Duration: 4 years
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- APS: 32–48
- English Home Language: Level 5 or English First Additional Language: Level 6
- Mathematics: Level 3 or Mathematical Literacy: Level 5
- Duration: 4 years
College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science
BSc Computer Science and Information Technology
- APS: 30–48
- Mathematics: Level 5
- English: Level 4
- Life Sciences, Agricultural Sciences or Physical Sciences: Level 4
- Duration: 3 years
BSc Environmental Science
- APS: 28–48
- Mathematics: Level 4
- English: Level 4
- Science subject: Level 4
BSc Biological Sciences
- APS: 28–48
- Mathematics: Level 4
- English: Level 4
- Science subject: Level 4
BSc Applied Chemistry
- APS: 28–48
- Mathematics: Level 4
- English: Level 4
- Science subject: Level 4
Engineering Programmes
UKZN offers engineering qualifications in:
- Agricultural Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
Minimum requirements include:
- APS: 33–48
- Mathematics: Level 6
- Physical Sciences: Level 6
- English: Level 4
- Life Orientation: Level 4
Applicants should note that Chemical, Civil, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering programmes generally consider first-choice applicants only.
Engineering Augmented Programme
Students who do not meet the mainstream requirements may qualify for the augmented programme.
Requirements include:
- Mathematics: Level 4
- Physical Sciences: Level 4
- English: Level 4
- Programme duration: 5 years
College of Health Sciences
Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB)
Applicants must have:
- Mathematics: Level 5
- Physical Sciences: Level 5
- Life Sciences: Level 5
- English: Level 5
- Life Orientation: Level 4
- Minimum aggregate: 65%
Programme duration: 6 years.
Bachelor of Nursing
- APS: 30–48
- Life Sciences: Level 4
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: Level 3
- Duration: 4 years
Bachelor of Pharmacy
- APS: 33–48
- Mathematics: Level 4
- Physical Sciences: Level 4
- Life Sciences: Level 4
- Duration: 4 years
Bachelor of Optometry
- APS: 33–48
- Mathematics: Level 4
- Life Sciences or Physical Sciences: Level 4
- Duration: 4 years
Other Health Sciences programmes include:
- Audiology
- Speech-Language Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Physiotherapy
- Oral Hygiene
- Dental Therapy
- Sport Science
Most of these programmes require APS scores between 30 and 48.
College of Humanities
Bachelor of Arts (General)
- APS: 28–48
- English: Level 4
- One designated subject: Level 5
- Duration: 3 years
Bachelor of Social Science
- APS: 28–48
- English: Level 4
- One designated subject: Level 5
Bachelor of Social Work
- APS: 28–48
- English: Level 4
- One designated subject: Level 5
BA Philosophy, Politics and Law
- APS: 30–48
- English: Level 4
- Designated subject: Level 5
Bachelor of Architectural Studies
- APS: 30–48
- Mathematics: Level 5
A portfolio may also be required during the selection process.
Education Programmes
Bachelor of Education (Foundation Phase)
- APS: 28–48
- English: Level 4
- isiZulu: Level 4
Bachelor of Education (Intermediate Phase)
- APS: 28–48
- English: Level 4
- Two relevant subjects at Level 5
Bachelor of Education (Senior Phase and FET)
- APS: 30–48
- English: Level 4
- Relevant teaching subjects required
How Do You Apply to UKZN?
Applications for undergraduate programmes are processed through the Central Applications Office (CAO).
Through the CAO system, applicants can:
- Submit online applications
- Track their application status
- Receive admission offers
- Manage multiple university applications from one platform
Applicants should ensure they meet both the APS and subject requirements before applying.
Fresh listings:
Central Applications Office (CAO)
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Admission
To strengthen your application:
- Apply as early as possible.
- Select programmes that match your APS.
- Ensure your Mathematics and English results meet the minimum requirements.
- Double-check faculty-specific subject requirements.
- Keep certified documents and supporting information ready before applying.
Choosing programmes that align with your academic performance can improve your chances of receiving an offer.
Final Thoughts
The University of KwaZulu-Natal APS requirements for 2027 vary across faculties and qualifications, with programmes such as Medicine, Engineering, Law, Accounting and Pharmacy requiring stronger academic performance.
Before submitting your application, carefully review the APS range and subject requirements for your chosen qualification. Planning ahead and understanding these requirements can help you make informed decisions and increase your chances of gaining admission to UKZN.