A Diploma in Logistics is set by each institution, so there is no single national requirement beyond the minimum for admission to a diploma. At the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) the 2027 requirements are an NSC with diploma admission, English at level 4, Mathematics or Technical Mathematics at level 3 or Mathematical Literacy at level 4, and one other subject at level 4, with a minimum of 20 APS (21 with Mathematical Literacy), excluding Life Orientation. See the VUT 2027 minimum admission requirements.
Mathematical Literacy is accepted at VUT, but not everywhere: the Durban University of Technology (DUT) lists Mathematics for its Diploma in Shipping and Logistics.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
VUT Diploma in Logistics (Logistics and Supply Chain Management), 2027 intake:
- An NSC with admission to a Diploma
- English at level 4 (50-59%)
- Mathematics or Technical Mathematics at level 3 (40-49%), or Mathematical Literacy at level 4 (50-59%)
- One other subject at level 4
- A minimum APS of 20 (Mathematics or Technical Mathematics) or 21 (Mathematical Literacy), excluding Life Orientation
The VUT Faculty of Management Sciences prospectus 2026 lists the same subject levels and APS, and gives the duration as six semesters, or three years, of full-time attendance.
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
Nationally, admission to a Diploma needs an NSC with at least 30% in the language of learning and teaching, plus an achievement rating of 3 (40-49%) or better in four recognised 20-credit NSC subjects (DHET admission policy). Institutions then set their own, higher or more specific, requirements.
DUT applies this rule for its diplomas: a minimum rating of 3 for English and 3 in four recognised 20-credit NSC subjects.
VUT also admits applicants without an NSC who hold a business-related N6 (Nated) qualification or NCV Level 4 from a TVET college, or an NQF 5 Higher Certificate specialising in Logistics or a supply-chain-related qualification.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
Mathematical Literacy is accepted at VUT only at level 4, one level higher than the level 3 needed in Mathematics, and with 21 APS instead of 20. If you took Mathematical Literacy, check the programme at each institution before you apply.
At DUT, the Diploma in Shipping and Logistics career leaflet (NQF 6) lists English at level 4, Mathematics at level 3 and a Business or Commerce subject at level 4, with Mathematics rather than Mathematical Literacy. VUT, by contrast, asks only for one other subject at level 4.
Level 3 means 40-49% and level 4 means 50-59%.
Documents and Application Requirements
For a VUT application you need:
- A certified copy of your South African ID (a passport for international applicants)
- A certified Grade 11 report or your latest Grade 12 report
- Proof of address (not compulsory)
- The R110 application fee, with proof of payment
Apply online on the VUT website. Initial selection is based on your final Grade 11 or latest Grade 12 results. Other institutions set their own application documents and fees.
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
VUT states that meeting the minimum subjects and symbols does not guarantee acceptance. For the 2027 intake its academic closing date was 30 September, so that window has closed; residences were listed as 31 October. Check the VUT website for the next intake.
Requirements for Diplomas in Logistics or Supply Chain at other universities of technology and TVET colleges differ, so confirm them with the institution before you apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
What pass do I need for a logistics diploma?
A diploma pass on your NSC at minimum: at least 30% in the language of learning and teaching and a rating of 3 or better in four recognised 20-credit subjects. Institutions then add their own subject levels and APS: VUT asks for English at level 4 and 20 or 21 APS.
Does a logistics diploma accept Mathematical Literacy?
VUT does, at level 4 (50-59%) with a minimum of 21 APS excluding Life Orientation, plus English at level 4 and one other subject at level 4. DUT’s Shipping and Logistics diploma lists Mathematics instead, so it depends on the institution.
What does the diploma in logistics require from the other subjects?
At VUT, one other subject at level 4. At DUT, a Business or Commerce subject at level 4.
How long is a logistics diploma?
The VUT Diploma in Logistics takes six semesters, or three years, of full-time attendance.
Can I enter without matric?
VUT lists routes for applicants with a business-related N6 (Nated) qualification or NCV Level 4, or an NQF 5 Higher Certificate in Logistics or a supply-chain-related field. Confirm with the institution.
Can I study further afterwards?
The VUT prospectus lists an Advanced Diploma in Logistics. Ask the institution about entry into it.
Confirm entry requirements with the institution you are applying to. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.