Key Takeaways: DUT Late Rules
- Application Method: CAO Only. Do not apply on the DUT website.
- Status: OPEN (Select courses only).
- Walk-Ins: No. You must apply online.
- Cost: CAO Late Fee applies (approx. R470).
- Closing Date: Varies by course, usually until full.
Durban University of Technology (DUT) is a top choice for students in KwaZulu-Natal, offering practical, technology-driven diplomas and degrees. However, unlike universities in Gauteng that run their own “Late Enquiry” portals, DUT works strictly through the Central Applications Office (CAO).
This causes confusion every year. Students search for a “DUT Application Form” and find nothing.
If you are looking for a space at DUT for the 2026 academic year, you are technically not applying to DUT—you are applying to the CAO. Here is the official guide on how to navigate the system, find out which courses still have space, and submit your application before the doors close.
1. How to Check Available Courses (Real-Time List)
You do not need to guess which courses are open. The CAO publishes a live list of programs that are still accepting applications.
Step-by-Step Check:
- Go to the https://www.cao.ac.za.
- Click on the tab labeled “Programmes” or “Available Programmes”.
- In the filter box, select “Durban University of Technology”.
- The Result: The system will show you a list of codes (e.g., DU-D-BAM).
- If a course is listed here, it means applications are open.
- If a course is NOT listed, it is closed/full.
Historically Available Courses in January:
While high-demand courses like Nursing and Radiography close early, DUT often has late space in:
- Diploma in Management Sciences: (Human Resources, Marketing, Retail).
- Diploma in Accounting (ECP): The extended program (4 years).
- Diploma in Taxation.
- Diploma in Clothing Management.
- Diploma in Language Practice.
2. Requirements: Do You Qualify?
Just because a course is open doesn’t mean you will get in. DUT is strict about the APS score and specific subjects.
General Admission Requirements:
- For a Diploma:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Diploma Pass (or Bachelor’s Pass).
- English Home Language (Level 3) OR English First Additional (Level 4).
- Math/Math Lit: Most business courses require Math (Level 3) or Math Lit (Level 4).
- Science: Engineering courses strictly require Physical Science (Level 4+).
- For a Degree:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Bachelor’s Pass.
- Higher subject marks are generally required compared to Diplomas.
Calculating Your DUT APS:
DUT uses the standard calculation (Levels 1-7).
- APS 20-25: Good for Diplomas and Extended Programs.
- APS 28+: Required for Degrees.
- Note: Life Orientation is usually included for some faculties but capped or excluded for others (like Engineering). Check the specific prospectus.
3. How to Apply via CAO (Late Application)
There are two scenarios here. Choose the one that fits you.
Scenario A: You Already Applied via CAO (Change of Mind)
If you already have a CAO number for 2026 (maybe you applied to UKZN and got rejected), you do not need to pay the full fee again.
- Log in to the CAO portal with your CAO Number.
- Select “Change of Mind”.
- Remove the old courses that rejected you.
- Enter the new DUT Course Code (found on the available list).
- Pay the “Change of Mind” fee (approx. R140).
- Submit.
Scenario B: New Applicant (First Time)
If you never applied to CAO for 2026:
- Go to the CAO website > “Apply”.
- Enter your ID and details.
- Select your DUT courses (up to 6 choices).
- Upload Documents: ID, Matric Results.
- Pay the Late Fee: Since it is January, the “On-Time” fee has expired. You must pay the Late Application Fee (approx. R470).
- Warning: Your application will not be processed until the fee is paid.
4. Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECP)
If your marks are low (e.g., APS 20-22), look specifically for courses with codes ending in “F” or described as “Extended” or “Foundation”.
- What are they? These courses take 1 year longer (4 years instead of 3).
- The Benefit: The first year is a preparatory year. The entry requirements are lower.
- Funding: NSFAS fully funds ECP courses.
- Example: Diploma in Management Sciences (Extended).
5. Contacting DUT (The “Plan B”)
If the CAO system is crashing or you have a specific query, you can try contacting the DUT Student Admissions department directly. However, they will likely refer you back to the CAO.
- Durban Campus: 031 373 2000
- Midlands (Pietermaritzburg) Campus: 033 845 8800
- Email: info@dut.ac.za
Tip: DUT has multiple campuses (Ritson, Steve Biko, ML Sultan, Indumiso). Make sure you know which campus your course is on before you accept. You don’t want to live in Durban if your classes are in Pietermaritzburg (1 hour away).
FAQ: DUT Late Applications
Q: Can I walk into the Steve Biko campus to apply?
A: No. Security is tight. They will point you to the internet café across the road to apply via CAO.
Q: How long does it take to get an answer?
A: In January, things move fast. Once you submit via CAO, it usually takes 3 to 5 days for DUT to review and send an offer. Check your email/SMS daily.
Q: I have an APS of 18. Is there anything for me?
A: It is very unlikely you will get into a Diploma at DUT with 18. You should look at TVET Colleges (like Elangeni or Majuba) which accept lower scores for NATED courses.
Q: Does NSFAS cover Late Applications?
A: NSFAS covers the tuition if you get accepted. However, NSFAS does not pay the CAO application fee. You must pay that R470 yourself.
Conclusion: Use the Filter
The trick to getting into DUT in January is not to be picky. Use the CAO “Available Programmes” filter. Find any course that matches your subjects and has space.
Getting your foot in the door is the most important step. Once you are inside, you can work hard and potentially change streams later, or simply graduate with a valuable qualification that gets you employed.
Disclaimer: Course availability changes hourly on the CAO system. ApsScore.com recommends checking the live CAO portal for the most accurate data.