Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), one of South Africa’s public universities of technology, located in Umlazi, Durban, admits students for undergraduate and postgraduate study through the Central Applications Office (CAO). 

This comprehensive guide covers application timelines, entry requirements, online submission steps, fees, required documentation, and status tracking for the 2026 intake.

When do MUT applications open for 2026?

Applications open on 1 March 2025, and all first-year (undergraduate) applications must be submitted via CAO at www.cao.ac.za, using MUT’s institution code, MN.

What is the application deadline for MUT?

  1. The final deadline for most faculties is 30 September 2025.
  2. Second‑semester intake deadlines (Engineering, Analytical Chemistry) close on 31 May 2025.
  3. Late applications may be accepted until 30 November 2025, subject to availability and additional fees.

What are MUT’s admission requirements?

  1. NSC diploma or bachelor’s pass, with minimum achievement levels per faculty.
  2. Diploma study generally requires at least five subjects at levels 4–5, including English and maths/physical science for STEM programmes.
  3. Admission Point Score (APS) is calculated based on the best six subjects (excluding LO), with thresholds varying per faculty:
    • Engineering: ~50% in English, Maths and Physics
    • Management Sciences: minimum APS ~25 with Maths, Accounting, English ≥50%
    • Natural Sciences: Life Sciences, Maths, Physical Science ≥50%, APS ~23+

What do postgraduate and international applicants need to submit?

  1. Postgraduate applicants apply via CAO if they’re first-time; otherwise, they apply through MUT’s admissions office. They must submit official transcripts and, for research degrees, proposals or CVs.
  2. International students require certified passport copies, SAQA evaluation of foreign qualifications, medical insurance, police clearance certificate, proof of English proficiency, and visa documents.

How do I apply online to MUT?

  1. Visit www.cao.ac.za, click Apply, and register using your ID or passport number.
  2. Choose MUT as your first or second choice and select up to six programme options.
  3. Upload certified documents (Grade 11 or 12 results, ID/passport, proof of payment, transcripts, medical/police clearance for some applicants).
  4. Pay the CAO fee via EasyPay or online before submission.
  5. Click Submit—you will receive a CAO reference number; this must be retained and used throughout the process.

What is the application fee and how is it paid?

  1. R250 for South African applicants; R300 for international applicants when applying before 30 September 2025.
  2. Late applications incur higher fees (e.g., R470 for domestic, R580 for international).
  3. Payment can be made via EasyPay, online, or EFT, using your CAO reference number. Confirm payment proof upload before opening your application.

How can I track the status of my MUT application?

  1. Use your CAO reference number or ID to log in to the CAO portal and check your application status (e.g., “Received”, “Offer Made”, “Firm Offer”).
  2. MUT prioritises applicants who selected MUT as their first or second choice. If additional documents are required, CAO will prompt you.
  3. Confirm your offer—if you receive one—promptly via the CAO portal. MUT also sends confirmation emails/SMS messages to applicants on its shortlist.
1. When do MUT applications open?
Applications open on 1 March 2025. Apply via CAO using code “MN” for MUT.
2. What is the closing date?
General applications close on 30 September 2025. Engineering/however available second-semester intakes close on 31 May 2025. Late applications accepted until 30 November.
3. What qualifications do I need?
NSC diploma or bachelor’s pass, with faculty-specific subject and APS requirements (e.g. 50% in English, Maths, relevant sciences for Engineering).
4. How do I apply?
Register at CAO, select MUT, upload certified documents, pay the fee, and submit your application online.
5. Is there a fee?
Yes—R250 for South African applicants or R300 for international prior to 30 September; higher fees apply to late applicants.
6. What documents do I need?
Certified Grade 11/or Grade 12 results, ID or passport, proof of fee payment; international applicants additionally need SAQA certificate, medical cover, and police clearance where specified.
7. Can postgraduate/international students apply?
Yes. Post-grad and international applicants also apply via CAO, uploading transcripts, CV or proposal if required, and supporting visa or English documents.
8. How do I track the application?
Use your CAO reference number to log in to CAO portal and check your status. MUT gives priority to first-choice applicants who meet requirements.
9. What happens after offer is made?
You’ll receive a “Firm Offer” via CAO. Accept by deadline to secure your place. MUT issues student intake instructions after acceptance.
10. Who can I contact for help?
Email [email protected], use WhatsApp +27 68 159 3238, or call the Admissions Call Centre at 031 819 9280.