Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT), based in Bloemfontein and Welkom, offers a wide range of undergraduate, diploma, postgraduate, and research programmes. 

This covers application opening and closing dates, admissions criteria, online process, documentation, fees, and application tracking for the 2026 academic year.

When do CUT applications open for the 2026 academic year?

CUT’s online application portal officially opens for the 2026 intake on 13 May 2025, accessible via www.cut.ac.za. 

All applicants—new, returning, domestic, international—must apply online.

What is the application deadline for CUT programmes?

The final deadline for all first-year undergraduate, diploma, honours, and postgraduate programmes is 30 September 2025. 

Specialised programmes such as Health Sciences or Engineering may close earlier—for instance, around 31 August 2025. No late or walk-in applications are accepted.

What are the admission requirements for undergraduate and diploma programmes?

  1. Grade 12 school leavers: Upload final Grade 11 or June Grade 12 results.
  2. School-leavers already matriculated: Upload a certified ID plus the National Senior Certificate.
  3. Diploma applicants: NSC with four higher-credit subjects (≥ 40%) and at least three lower-credit subjects ≥ 30%.

CUT also requires the National Benchmark Test (NBT) for many programmes, APS score, and in some cases, selection tests or portfolios.

What do postgraduate and international applicants need to submit?

  1. Postgraduate applicants: Must hold a qualified bachelor’s degree (usually 60% average or better), supply academic transcripts, and in many cases submit a research proposal or CV in consultation with their department.
  2. International applicants: Must include certified passport copies, SAQA evaluation of foreign qualifications, proof of English proficiency, study visa documentation, and possibly a medical report.

How do I apply online to CUT?

  1. Prepare certified documents: Grade 11/12 results, ID/passport, academic transcripts if applicable.
  2. Go to www.cut.ac.za and click “Apply” to create an account on the application portal.
  3. Select up to two programme choices, ranked by preference.
  4. Complete all sections and upload your documents.
  5. Submit your application before the deadline. Online application is completely free—manual applications are not permitted. Previous application status does not carry over; even returning applicants must reapply.

Is there an application fee for CUT?

CUT does not charge an application fee for any applicants for the 2026 intake. 

Beware of third parties offering paid application assistance; CUT emphasises that only its official process on the portal is valid.

How can I track the status of my CUT application?

  1. Upon submitting your application, you’ll receive a reference number and confirmation email.
  2. Use the Application Status portal at cut.ac.za/acadappstatus to check progress using your ID/passport number.
  3. Common status codes include “Received”, “Under Review”, “Conditional Acceptance”, “Provisional”, or “Accepted”. If additional documents are needed, the system will indicate that.
  4. Download your admission letter via CUT’s PeopleSoft Student Administration Self Service portal.
1. When do CUT applications open?
Applications open on 13 May 2025 via the official portal at www.cut.ac.za.
2. What is the application closing date?
General applications close on 30 September 2025. Some programmes (e.g. Health or Engineering) may close earlier.
3. Is there an application fee?
No–CUT does not charge any application fee for the 2026 intake. Beware of unofficial agents requesting payment.
4. What documents are required?
Certified copies of Grade 11 results or NSC, ID or passport, transcripts for prior study, NBT results, and any required portfolio or selection test documentation.
5. Can returning applicants reuse last year’s application?
No. CUT requires re‑application each year. Even if you applied previously, you must reapply with updated information.
6. How do I check application status?
Use the online status portal (Application Status) with your ID or passport number. Admission letter downloads available from self‑service portal.
7. Are NBTs required?
Yes. The National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) are often required for admission and must be completed before applying.
8. Can international applicants apply online?
Yes—international applicants must upload passport, SAQA evaluation, proof of visa and English proficiency online by the deadline.
9. What if my status shows “Waiting for Documents”?
You must upload the missing documents promptly via the portal to proceed with admission processing.
10. Who can I contact for help?
For general enquiries, email [email protected] or phone +27 51 507 3911 (Bloemfontein campus).