University of Zululand (UNIZULU)

Written by Mohapi · Last updated 15 August 2026 · How these figures are checked

UNIZULU asks for something almost nowhere else does: a decent pass in two languages, not one. And if you want to take any maths at all, the bar is higher than you would expect.

Two languages at level 4

This is the requirement most likely to catch someone out, because it is stricter than the national rule and stricter than most universities.

You need a pass at level 4 (50–59%) in two languages, including the language of instruction at either Home Language or First Additional Language level.

Compare that with the national minimum, which asks for 30% in the language of learning and teaching, and with most institutions, which specify English and leave your second language alone. At UNIZULU your second language is doing real work.

So if your English is comfortable but your isiZulu or Afrikaans came in at 45%, check this before assuming you qualify. It is not a subject requirement tucked into one programme. It is a general admission condition.

60% in Mathematics, or no maths modules

The second distinctive rule, and it is about what you can study rather than whether you get in.

A student who wishes to enrol for any module in Mathematics must have obtained at least 60% (level 5) in the Grade 12 Mathematics examination.

Read that carefully: it is not a requirement for a maths degree. It applies to any module in Mathematics. Plenty of science, commerce and education programmes carry a maths module somewhere in the first year, and a learner arriving with 55% in Mathematics may find a programme partly closed to them even though their total was fine.

If your maths sits in the fifties and your intended programme touches mathematics at all, ask the faculty directly what that means for you before you register.

Applying through the CAO

UNIZULU is a Central Applications Office institution. You do not apply to it directly, one CAO application carries up to six programme choices across UNIZULU, UKZN, DUT, MUT and the CAO's private member institutions.

Worth knowing if UNIZULU is a later choice on your list: it stayed open in cycles where UKZN had already closed to new applications. See late applications and walk-ins.

Where UNIZULU is

The main campus is at KwaDlangezwa, near Empangeni and Richards Bay in northern KwaZulu-Natal, with a second campus in Richards Bay.

It is a largely rural, residential university serving a region where it is frequently the closest public institution. If you are from northern KZN that proximity is a real advantage; if you are not, treat accommodation as part of the decision rather than an afterthought, because the surrounding private rental market is limited.

Who UNIZULU genuinely suits

• Learners in northern KwaZulu-Natal, for whom it is often the nearest public university.
• Students strong in two languages, the requirement that penalises others rewards you here.
• Anyone going into education, which is one of UNIZULU's largest faculties.
• Applicants who want a residential campus rather than a commuter one.

Applying

• Apply through the CAO, not directly.
• Check both your language marks against level 4 before anything else.
• If your programme touches maths, check your Grade 12 Mathematics against 60%.
• Residence and funding are separate applications.

Per-programme APS requirements, application fees and closing dates are set per cycle and are not reproduced here. Confirm with UNIZULU or in the current CAO handbook. Admissions: 035 902 6715.

What people get wrong when applying to UNIZULU