DUT 2027 APS: Entrance Requirements for KZN Students

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) is one of South Africa’s leading universities of technology, based in KwaZulu‑Natal (KZN). 

If you want to study at DUT in 2027, you need to understand how the Admission Point Score (APS) works. 

The APS is the score used to assess your National Senior Certificate (NSC) results and determine whether you qualify for admission into Higher Certificate, Diploma, or Bachelor’s degree programmes. 

Meeting the minimum APS is a key first step in the admissions process and is required before selection decisions are made. 

DUT applications must be submitted online through the Central Applications Office (CAO).

How DUT Calculates Your APS

DUT calculates your APS using your six best NSC subjects, excluding Life Orientation. 

You must include at least one language subject, and you should include Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy. 

For most programmes, Life Orientation does not contribute to your APS total.

Step‑by‑Step APS Calculation

1. Get Your Final NSC Results: Use your official Grade 12 percentages.
2. Choose Your Best Six Subjects: Pick the six subjects with the highest marks (excluding Life Orientation).
3. Convert Each Subject to APS Points: Use the APS table below to assign points for each subject.
4. Add the Points Together: This total score is your DUT APS.
5. Check Programme Requirements: Compare your APS with the minimum APS for your chosen qualification. Some programmes also require specific subjects at certain levels.

DUT APS Points Conversion Table

NSC Percentage	APS Points per Subject
80% – 100%	7
70% – 79%	6
60% – 69%	5
50% – 59%	4
40% – 49%	3
30% – 39%	2
0% – 29%	1

Use this table to convert each of your top six subject marks into APS points. Your total APS will be the sum of these six point values.

Step‑by‑Step Example

If your six top NSC results are:

1. English: 72% → 6 points
2. Mathematics: 65% → 5 points
3. Physical Sciences: 58% → 4 points
4. Life Sciences: 70% → 5 points
5. Geography: 60% → 5 points
6. Accounting: 75% → 6 points

Your APS = 6 + 5 + 4 + 5 + 5 + 6 = 31 points

This score gives you a benchmark for eligibility against your chosen programme’s requirements.

General DUT APS Requirements for 2027

Below is an overview of typical APS expectations for different qualification types at DUT. 

Always confirm the exact requirements for your programme on the DUT website or the prospectus before applying.

Higher Certificates

1. Minimum APS: Around 20–27
2. Entry is usually based on basic academic performance in recognised subjects.
3. English at an achievable level is important.

Diplomas (NQF Level 6)

1. Minimum APS: Around 24–28
2. Many diplomas have subject requirements (such as Mathematics or English).
3. Examples include Business Analysis, Public Administration, and Tourism.

Bachelor’s Degrees (NQF Level 7/8)

1. Minimum APS: Around 28–32+
2. Most Bachelor’s degrees require a stronger academic performance and specific subjects.
3. Applied Sciences degrees often start around APS 28.
4. Engineering and other built environment Bachelor’s programmes often expect around APS 32 or higher.

APS Requirements by Faculty

DUT sets APS requirements that vary by field of study. Below are examples based on recent admissions patterns (actual 2027 requirements should be confirmed with DUT):

Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment

• Commonly APS 30–32+ required for degrees in engineering technology.
• Mathematics and Physical Sciences are usually compulsory subjects.

Faculty of Applied Sciences

• Degree programmes often require APS 28+ and specific science subjects.

Faculty of Health Sciences

• Nursing and related degrees typically require at least APS 28+.
• Biology and Physical Sciences may be required at certain levels.

Faculty of Management Sciences

• Diplomas and degrees in management fields generally require APS 24–30.
• English and Mathematics or Accounting may be compulsory subjects.

Faculty of Arts and Design

• APS requirements vary depending on the programme.
• Creative programmes may also require portfolios or interviews.

Subject Requirements and Other Conditions

Meeting the APS requirement is necessary but not always sufficient for admission. Many DUT programmes require:

1. Specific subject minimums (for example, Mathematics or Physical Science at certain levels).
2. English proficiency at an acceptable achievement level.
3. Portfolio or interview for creative studies (e.g., design or drama).
4. Ranking of applicants based on APS when programmes have limited space.

Applying to DUT for 2027 (KZN Students)

1. Check your APS: Use your final NSC results to calculate your total as described above.
2. Choose Programmes: Identify the programmes you want and check the exact APS and subject requirements in the official DUT prospectus.
3. Apply via CAO: Submit your application on the Central Applications Office website, which manages DUT admissions.
4. Upload Documents: Include certified copies of your ID, NSC certificate (or certificate of results), and any other required documents.
5. Meet Deadlines: Application deadlines for the 2027 intake typically fall in September 2026.
6. Track Your Application: Use your CAO number to check status updates online.

Being from KwaZulu‑Natal does not affect the APS calculation; all DUT applicants are assessed the same way.

Aim for higher than the minimum APS where possible, especially for competitive programmes.

Confirm any updates directly with DUT or its official admissions documents.