Durban University of Technology (DUT) is a major University of Technology in KwaZulu‑Natal, with campuses in Durban and Pietermaritzburg. 

It offers a wide range of higher certificates, diplomas, degrees, and postgraduate programmes.

When do DUT applications open for the 2026 academic year?

DUT officially opens online applications on 1 April 2025 for all applicant categories, including South African, international, undergraduate, returning, and postgraduate students.

What are DUT’s application deadlines for 2026?

The final deadline for most programmes is 30 September 2025. 

Some high-demand or professional programmes may close earlier—always verify on the official DUT website.

What are the admission requirements for undergraduate applications?

  1. First-time undergraduate South African applicants must apply via the Central Applications Office (CAO) at www.cao.ac.za.
  2. Applicants must hold a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent, meeting programme-specific English and subject level requirements; APS is used for competitive selection, varying by faculty and programme.

What are the requirements for postgraduate and international applicants?

  1. Postgraduate applicants (honours, master’s, doctoral) apply directly through DUT’s application portal and must upload transcripts, and where required, a research proposal or CV.
  2. International students must provide certified passports, SAQA evaluation for foreign qualifications, and proof of English proficiency. These applications should be made early due to processing timelines.

How do I apply online to DUT?

  1. Undergraduate first‑time applicants submit through CAO (www.cao.ac.za) by selecting DUT and paying the fee.
  2. Returning students, transfer students, and postgraduate applicants use DUT’s direct online application portal.
  3. Applicants complete personal profiles, select programme choices, upload certified documents, pay the application fee, and submit before the closing date.

What is the application fee and how do I pay?

  1. For CAO-based applications: R250 for South African applicants; R300 for international applicants.
  2. Late applications (submitted after 31 October 2025) incur higher fees—R470 for SA, R580 for international.

Payment may be made via the CAO online system, EasyPay outlets, or directly to CAO.

Proof of payment must be uploaded to activate your application.

How do I track my DUT application status?

  1. After submission, applicants receive a CAO reference number and/or DUT student number along with confirmation via email/SMS.
  2. CAO applicants track status via the CAO portal; DUT applicants use the DUT application portal or Student Self-Service to monitor progress, document requests, and offers.
1. When does DUT open applications?
Applications open on 1 April 2025. First‑time undergraduates apply via CAO; others via DUT’s online portal.
2. What is the application closing date?
Most applications close on 30 September 2025; some high‑demand programmes may close earlier. Late applications incur higher fees and limited availability.
3. How much is the application fee?
R250 for South Africans; R300 for international applicants. Late applications cost R470 or R580. Payment must be submitted before the deadline.
4. What is the admissions process for first‑time applicants?
Apply via CAO at cao.ac.za, select DUT, input personal and academic data, upload results, and pay the fee.
5. What do postgraduate or international applicants need?
Apply directly through DUT’s portal; upload official transcripts, SAQA evaluation, passport, and relevant documents for programme or visa processing.
6. What documents are required?
Certified ID or passport; Grade 11 or NSC results; proof of payment; transcripts if applicable; portfolio or test results if required by programme.
7. How is application status tracked?
First‑time applicants check via CAO portal; others use DUT Student Self‑Service dashboard. All receive email/SMS updates upon offer.
8. Can I change my programme choice?
Yes—but a “Change of Mind” fee applies. Check CAO or DUT portal policies. Changes may not be allowed after specific deadlines.
9. What if I miss the deadline?
Late applications may be accepted if space permits but are not guaranteed. A higher fee applies; early submission is advised.
10. Where can I get help?
Contact DUT Admissions via email at [email protected], WhatsApp +27 83 445 1282, or call 031 373 5005.