DUT Requirements
If you want to study at Durban University of Technology (DUT), you need to check two things first: the general minimum admission requirements for your qualification type, and the exact subject and points requirements for your chosen course. DUT makes it clear that departmental requirements in the course guide, career leaflet or handbook still apply even when you meet the general university minimum.
What are the minimum DUT requirements?
For bachelor’s degree programmes, DUT’s general admissions guide says applicants need an NSC certified by Umalusi, at least a level 3 in English, and at least level 4 in four designated NSC 20-credit subjects. For NCV Level 4 applicants, DUT says degree entry requires at least 60% in three fundamental subjects including English, and at least 70% in four compulsory vocational subjects.
For some courses, the requirements are stricter than the general minimum. For example, DUT’s official Bachelor of Education page says applicants need entry into bachelor studies, at least 30 points excluding Life Orientation, two approved languages including English, and English at level 4 for students who matriculated after 2008.
DUT APS requirements
There is no single DUT APS requirement for every course. DUT publishes programme-specific points and compulsory subjects in its official course guide, so the correct answer depends on the qualification and the department you want to enter.
In the official 2026 DUT course guide, listed examples include 24 points for Higher Certificate in Sport Management Science, 25 points for Diploma in Management Sciences: Business Administration, 28 points for several Bachelor of Education specialisations, and 36 points for Bachelor of Applied Arts in Screen Arts and Technology.
That is why you should never rely on a single “DUT points requirement” without checking the exact course. A diploma course, a teaching degree and a health sciences programme can all have different point thresholds and different compulsory subjects. Always compare your matric subjects and achievement levels with the latest DUT course guide or career leaflet for the programme you want.
DUT subject requirements by course
DUT does not use one subject combination across all faculties. In the 2026 course guide, several Bachelor of Education specialisations at Indumiso Campus are listed at 28 points, but each one has its own subject mix. Economic Management Sciences includes Accounting, Natural Sciences includes Maths plus Life Sciences or Physical Sciences, and Languages requires strong language results.
This matters because meeting the general DUT minimum does not automatically mean you qualify for every course. Your final check should always be the departmental course entry requirements published by DUT for that programme.
How to apply to DUT
For undergraduate study, DUT says first-time applicants must apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO). DUT also directs applicants to its study opportunities, career leaflets and handbooks to confirm compulsory subjects, points, CAO codes and closing dates.
Before you apply, make sure you have chosen the correct qualification type, checked the exact course requirements and confirmed the latest deadline for that programme. DUT’s admissions FAQ for the 2026 cycle said the general closing date was 30 September 2025, but it also noted that some programmes close earlier, which is why you should always verify the current-year deadline before submitting your CAO application.
DUT postgraduate requirements
For postgraduate study, DUT uses a different process from undergraduate admissions. The university says prospective postgraduate applicants should contact the relevant Head of Department or the Research and Postgraduate Office, then submit the required form and supporting documents for consideration.
DUT’s 2026 registration FAQ says admission to a master’s programme generally requires a related or cognate Postgraduate Diploma, Bachelor Honours degree or professional bachelor’s degree, together with compliance with departmental rules. Some faculties may also require a concept note or additional programme-specific documents.
DUT requirements for international students
DUT says international undergraduate applicants must also apply through CAO. If your qualification was obtained outside South Africa, DUT says you may need a SAQA evaluation, and degree studies require Matriculation Board evaluation. For postgraduate study, DUT says international applicants must liaise directly with the relevant department and submit a SAQA evaluation where required.
Final check before you apply
The best way to use this page is as a starting point. First, choose the DUT course you want. Next, check the compulsory subjects and points in the latest course guide or career leaflet. Then confirm the current closing date and apply through the correct channel. That approach is safer than relying on a broad university-level summary alone.
FAQs About DUT Requirements
What is the minimum requirement to study at DUT?
For bachelor’s degree programmes, DUT’s general guide says applicants need an NSC, at least level 3 in English, and at least level 4 in four designated 20-credit subjects. Some courses then add stricter subject or points requirements.
Does DUT use APS?
DUT publishes programme-specific points and compulsory subjects in its course guide. Students often refer to this as APS, but the important point is that the requirement changes by course.
Can I apply to DUT with NCV Level 4?
Yes. DUT’s admissions guide includes NCV Level 4 routes for higher certificate, diploma and degree study, with different minimum percentages for each qualification type.
Do I apply directly to DUT?
For undergraduate programmes, DUT says applications go through CAO. Direct application is generally used for postgraduate studies.
Where can I check my exact DUT course requirements?
DUT directs applicants to its course guide, career leaflets and handbooks for exact departmental entry requirements.
Does meeting the minimum DUT requirements guarantee admission?
Meeting the minimum requirements is only the first step. You still need to satisfy the departmental entry rules for your course and apply through the correct process.