The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has announced that applications for the 2026 academic year are now open, from 1 March 2025 and closing 30 September 2025. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early to secures your place in your desired course. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to apply successfully at DUT.
DUT 2026 applications are now open
DUT Application Opening and Closing Dates
The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has officially opened applications for the 2026 academic year. Prospective students can submit their applications from 1 March 2025. It is important to note that applications will close on 30 September 2025. Late applications may not be accepted, so students are encouraged to apply as early as possible to secure their place at DUT.
NOTE: The CAO Contact Centre will be open from 3 March to 28 November 2025
How to Apply to DUT for 2026 Applications
Undergraduate First-Time Applicants
If you are applying for the first time as an undergraduate student, you must submit your application through the Central Applications Office (CAO) at www.cao.ac.za.
Advanced Diploma Applicants: An Advanced Diploma is considered an Undergraduate Career Programme. When applying, make sure to select the appropriate Application Type.
Returning Students, Transfers, and Postgraduate Applicants
Returning undergraduate students, students transferring from other universities, and postgraduate applicants must apply using the following link: DUT Online Application Portal
Read the instructions and click ‘Continue with Application’.
Enter your ID/Passport Number and click ‘Submit’.
Read the displayed information and click ‘Continue with Application’.
Fill in all the required details, then click ‘Next’.
Click ‘Continue with Online Application’.
A pop-up will appear showing your CAO number, password, and EasyPay number. This information will also be sent to your email. Keep it safe for future reference!
Click ‘Continue with Online Application’ and complete all the required fields.
Review your application summary. If any information is incorrect, click ‘Edit’ to update it.
Click ‘Process My Application’ to submit your application.
You will receive a confirmation message: “Your Application has been successfully submitted to CAO.”
3. Additional Steps After Submitting Your CAO Application
Pay the Administration Fee
You can pay online when applying, later via CAO’s ‘Payments’ option, or at an EasyPay outlet.
Upload Supporting Documents
You must submit required documents (e.g., ID, school results, proof of payment) either while applying or later using the ‘Upload My Documents’ option on the CAO homepage.
Important: If you didn’t upload documents or pay the fee at the time of applying, do so as soon as possible to avoid delays in processing your application.
DUT 2026 Admission Requirements
Admission requirements at Durban University of Technology (DUT) vary by faculty and course. However, general requirements for undergraduate courses include:
National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent with the necessary subjects and achievement levels.
Minimum English proficiency (varies by course).
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, depending on the course.
Specific subject requirements for certain courses (e.g., Physical Science for engineering courses).
Ranking system applies – meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance.
Each faculty has specific requirements, so applicants should check the detailed CAO 2026 Handbook or course-specific requirements before applying.
DUT 2026 Application Fees and Payment Details
Applying to Durban University of Technology (DUT) requires an administration fee, which varies depending on when the payment is made and whether the applicant is a South African citizen or an international applicant.
Administration Fees
Payment Deadline
SA Citizens
International Applicants
Before or on 31 Oct 2025
R250.00
R300.00
On or after 01 Nov 2025
R470.00
R580.00
Change of Mind Fee: If you wish to add, change, or renumber courses choices, a R140.00 administration fee will be charged.
How to Pay the DUT Administration Fee
There are two payment methods: Online Payment or EasyPay Payment at Retail Outlets
For more detailed contact information, including specific faculty contacts, please refer to DUT's official contact page.
Conclusion
Applying to DUT is an exciting opportunity. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth application process. If you need help, DUT support services are available to assist. Good luck with your application!