Need a nursing career that starts right away? KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing is opening its three‑year Diploma in Nursing for the 2027 academic year, and the deadline is fast approaching.
What the opportunity is
The college, in partnership with the KwaZulu‑Natal Department of Health, offers a full Diploma in Nursing (NQF Level 6). The programme runs for three years, carries 368 credits and is registered with SAQA (ID 115826) under SANC regulation R171.
Who can apply – eligibility
You must be a resident of KwaZulu‑Natal and meet the academic criteria below. All documents must be uploaded through the online portal.
Applicants who finished Grade 12 before 2008
- National Senior Certificate (NQF Level 4) with a minimum APS of 25.
- Maximum of six relevant subject scores.
- English – Higher E or better, or Standard D or better.
- Biology, Physical Science, Chemistry or Physiology – Higher E or better, or Standard D or better.
- Mathematics – Higher E or better, or Standard D or better.
Applicants who finished Grade 12 from 2008 onward
- National Senior Certificate with at least a Diploma Pass.
- Minimum APS of 25 (using the six highest relevant subjects).
- English at Level 4.
- Home Language or First Additional Language at Level 3.
- Mathematics at Level 3 or Mathematical Literacy at Level 5.
- Life Sciences or Physical Sciences at Level 4.
- Life Orientation at Level 4 (compulsory but not counted in APS).
Other essential conditions
- Proof of KwaZulu‑Natal residence (must be uploaded).
- You must not be currently enrolled at another institution.
- You must not receive any other study funding.
- Sign and upload an affidavit (Commissioner of Oaths) confirming you have never received a bursary from the Department of Health at KZNCN.
What you gain – skills and qualification
On successful completion you will be trained in:
- Patient assessment and general nursing care
- Health promotion and disease prevention
- Primary, community and maternal‑child health
- Mental‑health nursing and clinical teamwork
- Professional nursing practice
The diploma qualifies you to apply for registration with the South African Nursing Council, opening the door to professional nursing jobs across the country.
How to apply – step‑by‑step
- Visit the official application portal: Apply here.
- Create an applicant account if required.
- Enter your personal details and select the programme “Diploma in Nursing – 2027” (Reference KZNCN 2/2026).
- Upload a clear copy of your Matric certificate.
- Upload a clear copy of your South African ID.
- Upload proof of KwaZulu‑Natal residence (utility bill, lease, etc.) or an affidavit.
- Upload the signed Commissioner of Oaths affidavit confirming no prior bursary receipt.
- Review every field and document for readability.
- Submit the application before 31 August 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Calculate your APS accurately; use only the six highest relevant subjects.
- Ensure all certificates and the affidavit are high‑resolution scans.
- Submit early to avoid portal overload or technical glitches.
- Double‑check that every required field is completed – missing information leads to disqualification.
- Keep digital copies of all documents in case verification is requested later.
Final thoughts and next steps
This diploma is competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee a place. However, by following the checklist below and submitting a complete, error‑free application, you give yourself the best possible shot.
Application checklist
- Academic requirements matched to your Year‑12 cohort.
- APS of at least 25 (Life Orientation excluded).
- English and Mathematics/Mathematical Literacy grades meet the stated levels.
- Life Sciences or Physical Sciences at the required level.
- Proof of KwaZulu‑Natal residence.
- No current enrolment elsewhere and no other study funding.
- Matric certificate, SA ID and signed affidavits ready and clear.
- Submitted online before 31 August 2026.
Take the first step today. Prepare your documents, calculate your APS, and apply online before the deadline. Good luck!
