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UKZN warns applicants about scams as 9,000 first-year places open for 2026
UKZN tightens the message as applications hit record numbers
As thousands of matrics across South Africa wait anxiously for their results, the University of KwaZulu-Natal has issued a firm warning to prospective students. With more than 9,000 first-year places set to be filled in 2026, the university says scammers are already circling, and applicants need to be vigilant.
UKZN expects the upcoming registration period to run smoothly, but officials say the surge in demand has also created opportunities for fraudsters pretending to represent the institution.
No campus applications and no shortcuts
UKZN has made it clear that every part of the admissions and registration process happens online. According to Executive Director for Corporate Relations Normah Zondo, the university will not ask applicants to come to campus to apply, submit documents, or secure a place.
Offers, acceptance decisions, and even change-of-mind requests are all handled digitally. Anyone claiming they can sell a spot at UKZN or fast-track an application is lying. The university says it will take legal action against anyone using its name or branding to defraud hopeful students.
Members of the public are also encouraged to report suspected scams to the South African Police Service.
Offers roll out after matric results
Firm offers to successful applicants will start going out from next week, shortly after the National Senior Certificate results are released on 13 January. These offers will be issued in batches and remain conditional, meaning applicants must still meet the requirements linked to their provisional acceptance.
The scale of interest in UKZN remains striking. The university received more than 326,000 applications across multiple programme choices, all competing for just over 9,100 first-year spaces in 2026.
The degrees everyone wants
As expected, highly competitive courses drew the biggest crowds. Nursing topped the list with more than 27,000 applications, followed closely by Education and Law. These numbers reflect a broader national trend where professional degrees with clearer career pathways continue to attract intense interest.
On social media, many applicants have already shared their anxiety and excitement, with parents warning each other in community groups about fake WhatsApp messages and suspicious Facebook pages pretending to be linked to UKZN.
What students should do now
UKZN is urging applicants to rely only on information shared through its official website and verified social media accounts. Anything outside these platforms should be treated with caution.
Registration for returning students opened on 6 January and runs until 13 February. First-time students will register online between 2 and 7 February. Campus access will be restricted, and only those with confirmed registration and proof will be allowed entry.
First-semester lectures are scheduled to begin on 9 February 2026, marking the official start of what is expected to be another busy academic year.
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Source: IOL
Featured Image: Durban Local
