TUT sets its own requirements for each programme, but there is a general rule. You need a National Senior Certificate (NQF level 4) or an equivalent, with at least six subjects including English (minimum score 3), and Mathematics, Technical Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy as your programme requires. Life Orientation and any subject with an achievement level of 1 are left out of the Admission Point Score (APS). These details are from TUT’s 2027 General Information for First Year Enrolment.
Nationally, bachelor’s degrees need at least four subjects at performance level 4 and diplomas at least four subjects at level 3. Each programme then sets its own APS and subject levels. Closing dates are on TUT’s programme closing dates page, and you can apply at tut.ac.za.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
- An NSC (NQF level 4) or equivalent, with at least six subjects
- English with a minimum score of 3
- Mathematics, Technical Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, as the programme requires
- At least four subjects at level 4 for a bachelor’s degree, or four at level 3 for a diploma
- The APS and subject levels set by the programme you choose
- Payment of the R240 application fee for 2027 (first-time undergraduate applicants)
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
APS requirements differ by programme. As examples from the 2027 booklet, the Higher Certificate in Electrical Engineering needs an APS of 20, the Diploma in Electrical Engineering 26 and the BEngTech Electrical 30, and the Bachelor of Nursing 27. There is no single TUT-wide APS.
Alternative qualifications such as IGCSE, A-level, IB and NSSC are evaluated, and acceptance depends on available capacity. TUT also has routes through Recognition of Prior Learning and a Senate discretionary route, both handled by the Office of the Registrar. TUT says prospectus information is subject to change, so confirm requirements for the year you apply.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
Mathematics is compulsory for the Faculties of Science, Engineering and the Built Environment, and Information and Communication Technology. The Faculties of Management Sciences, Economics and Finance, and Humanities accept either Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.
Life Orientation does not count towards your APS, and neither does any subject in which you achieved level 1. Your score is built from the remaining subjects.
Documents and Application Requirements
Have all your documents ready before you apply online, and create your own email address beforehand. TUT lists these documents:
- Proof of payment of the application fee (deposited at ABSA, using your identity number as the reference)
- A certified copy of your identity document
- A certified copy of your NSC, or your final Grade 11 results if you are currently in Grade 12
If you hold an alternative or international qualification, TUT requires a certificate of equivalence from SAQA or the CHE. TUT cannot obtain it for you, so start your application while the certificate is in process.
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
First-year applications for the 2027 academic year opened on 1 April 2026. TUT’s closing dates page lists 15 June 2026 for programmes including Nursing, Pharmacy and Diagnostic Radiography, 31 July 2026 for several others, and 30 September 2026 for the remaining programmes. These dates have now passed, so for 2027 study contact TUT about any programmes still open. TUT says a programme may close at any time when full.
You may apply on Grade 11 or mid-year Grade 12 results and may receive provisional admission pending your final Grade 12 results. TUT does not admit anyone to a programme without prior evaluation. To check your status, go to tut.ac.za, open Study@TUT, choose Check Your Status and enter your ID number.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the TUT requirements?
An NSC or equivalent with at least six subjects including English (minimum 3). Bachelor’s degrees need four subjects at level 4 and diplomas four at level 3. Each programme then sets its own APS and subjects.
Does Life Orientation count towards the APS?
No. TUT excludes Life Orientation and any subject with an achievement level of 1.
Do I need Mathematics for TUT?
It depends on the faculty. Science, Engineering and the Built Environment, and ICT require Mathematics. Management Sciences, Economics and Finance, and Humanities accept Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.
How much is the TUT application fee?
R240 for the 2027 academic year. It is compulsory for first-time applicants, paid once and non-refundable. TUT states it for first-year and undergraduate applications.
When do TUT applications close?
TUT’s 2026 closing dates were 15 June, 31 July and 30 September, depending on the programme, and programmes can close earlier once full. Check the closing dates page for your programme.
Can I apply with Grade 11 results?
Yes. You may apply on Grade 11 or mid-year Grade 12 results and may be granted provisional admission.
How do I check my TUT application status?
Go to tut.ac.za, choose Study@TUT, select Check Your Status and enter your ID number.
Confirm programme requirements with Tshwane University of Technology. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.