Welcome, Siyanamukela, to all Our First Year Students

First Year Experience

Congratulations on your recent Matric results; your hard work has paid off.  We welcome you to the UKZN College of Law and Management community.  We pride ourselves in inspiring greatness in all our students, and now you are one of us.

#SIKANYE NAWE OHAMBENI LWAKHO OLUYA EMPUMELELWENI

Your Adventure Begins Here!

Starting university can be overwhelming, but the First Year Experience (FYE) at UKZN is here to make it easier! FYE provides the resources, mentorship, and support you need to thrive. From tackling academic challenges to building connections, we’re dedicated to helping you succeed from day one. Let FYE be your guide to an amazing university journey!

Our dedicated team of academics and support staff is ready to ensure you receive the best learning experience during your academic journey. We offer the First Year Experience (FYE) programme to help students integrate into life at the University of KwaZulu-Natal through the following activities.

What To Look Forward To

The FYE programmes are designed to help you navigate your first year at university with confidence.

Peer Wellness Mentoring

Kuninigi, Issa A lot! And we know it can be overwhelming. That is why our Peer Wellness Mentors aka “Big Sisters and Big Brothers” are here to hold your hand as you navigate your first-year experience.

Peer Academic Mentor

They don’t call adjusting from high school to university life the great transition for nothing. That’s why our top students known as Peer Academic Mentors are available to share their tips and recipes for success.

First-Year Experience Course Seminars

As a #UKZNFresher there is a lot to learn and keep up with. That is why our yearlong First-Year Experience seminars will give you all the deets in bite sizes. So, get ready to take note and attend our facilitator-led sessions accessible to registered students through Moodle.

Academic and Curriculum Advice

Academic and Curriculum support is all about making sure you’re on track and ready to kickstart your first-year. Information on how to get this done is covered during the First-Year Experience Orientation.

Pre-Orientation Programme

Your journey begins with an exciting pre-orientation programme, kicking off during the last week of January (20 January-31 January). This programme is designed to ensure you’re fully prepared for university life and your academic journey ahead.

Here's What to Expect:

Welcome Pack: Once you accept your firm offer, you’ll receive a registration/welcome pack with everything you need to get started.

Your Mentor: You’ll be paired with a mentor—an experienced student who will guide you through the onboarding process and support you throughout your first year, helping you settle in with ease.

What’s Included in the Programme?

A big part of the First-Year Experience (FYE) programme is the self-paced online course, which includes these essential modules:

  • FYE01: Transition, Adjustment, and Integration to University (Orientation)
  • FYE02: Academic Skills Development
  • FYE03: Student Wellness and Global Citizenship
  • FYE04: Financial Literacy

Please Note: Completing this course is compulsory for all students and it’s forms part of your degree programme. 

The Orientation Programme (FYE01) will run from 2dd February to 6th February 2026, focusing on:

  • Familiarising yourself with your academic programmes and degree expectations
  • Exploring available resources and support services
  • Understanding university rules and policies

Once you complete FYE01, you’ll proceed to the FYE02-FYE04 modules.

GET IN TOUCH

For FYE enquiries, contact our team—we’re here to help!