If you’re planning to study in 2026 and want a university that combines academic excellence with practical, career-focused learning, then the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) might be just what you’re looking for. Located in Vanderbijlpark in Gauteng, with additional campuses in Ekurhuleni, Secunda, and Upington, VUT is one of South Africa’s leading universities of technology.
Whether you’re applying directly from high school, returning after a gap year, or looking to upgrade your qualifications, this guide will take you through how to apply to VUT for the 2026 academic year, including important dates, requirements, and tips for a successful application.
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Why Choose VUT?
VUT offers a unique balance of academic theory and hands-on learning. Its qualifications are designed to equip students with the skills needed in today’s job market—particularly in sectors like engineering, applied sciences, business, IT, and the arts.
With strong ties to industry, small class sizes, and state-of-the-art labs and facilities, VUT creates a space where students are prepared for the workplace from the moment they graduate. The university also focuses on entrepreneurship and innovation, encouraging students to turn ideas into real-world solutions.
VUT’s faculties include:
Engineering & Technology
Applied & Computer Sciences
Human Sciences
Management Sciences
Each faculty offers National Diplomas, Advanced Diplomas, Bachelor’s Degrees, and Postgraduate qualifications depending on your level of study and career goals.
When Do VUT Applications Open and Close?
If you’re applying to study at VUT in 2026, it’s important to keep track of the application timeline. Applications are currently open for the 2026 academic year.
Here are the key dates to remember:
Applications open: May 2025
Applications close: 30 September 2025
Accommodation applications close: 30 September 2025
Late applications: Generally not accepted, especially for popular programmes
Apply as early as possible—especially if you’re aiming for high-demand programmes like Engineering, Information Technology, or Graphic Design.
Who Can Apply?
You can apply to VUT if you are:
A current Grade 12 learner expecting your matric results at the end of 2025
Someone who completed matric in previous years
A student currently at a college, university, or TVET institution who wants to transfer
A diploma graduate looking to upgrade to an advanced diploma or degree
An international student with an equivalent school-leaving qualification
Make sure you meet the minimum admission requirements for the programme you’re applying for. Most qualifications require a minimum APS (Admission Point Score) and certain subjects, such as Mathematics or Physical Science.
How to Apply to VUT: Step-by-Step
Now that you’ve decided VUT could be the right fit for you, here’s how to apply—from start to finish.
1. Decide What You Want to Study
VUT offers a wide range of qualifications across four faculties. You’ll need to choose the right programme based on your interests, school subjects, and career goals.
Before applying, check the following:
Minimum APS score for your chosen programme
Subject-specific requirements (like Maths, Life Sciences, or Accounting)
Whether additional criteria apply (e.g. portfolios for design courses)
Still feeling unsure about what to study? Try FundiMatch—a free tool that helps you find a study path based on your personality, interests, and school marks. It’s a great way to explore the options and get clarity on your future.
2. Gather Your Documents
Before starting your application, make sure all your documents are certified and ready to upload. Here’s what you’ll need:
A certified copy of your South African ID or passport (for international applicants)
Latest school results (Grade 11 final and/or Grade 12 June/Trial results)
Final NSC or equivalent if you’ve already completed school
Academic transcripts and certificates if transferring from another institution
Proof of payment for the application fee
Additional documents if required (e.g. portfolios or CVs for some courses)
Your documents must be certified within the last 3 months and scanned clearly—blurry or incomplete uploads may delay your application.
3. Apply Online via the VUT Website
VUT uses its own online application portal. Here’s how to apply:
Visit the official VUT website at www.vut.ac.za
Click on “Apply Now” and follow the steps to create your student profile
Fill in your personal and academic details
Select your qualification(s) and upload your documents
Submit your application
Once submitted, you’ll receive a student/reference number, which you’ll use to track your application status.
4. Pay the Application Fee
VUT requires a non-refundable application fee of R110 for South African applicants. You’ll need to pay this before your application will be processed.
Payment details can be found on the VUT website, and proof of payment must be uploaded along with your documents.
After You Apply
Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll want to keep an eye on your progress. Here’s what comes next.
Track Your Application Status
Use your student number to log in to the application portal and track your application status. Make sure your contact details are up to date—you’ll receive important updates via SMS or email.
Offers and Acceptance
If your application is successful, VUT will send you an offer letter, either firm or conditional (if you’re waiting on matric results). You’ll need to accept the offer before the deadline and follow the instructions to reserve your place.
Conditional offers become final once your final NSC results are submitted and meet the requirements.
Registration
Registration normally takes place in January or early February, before the academic year begins. You’ll receive further details from VUT once your offer has been accepted.
Need Help Paying for Your Studies?
We get it—university comes with costs like tuition, textbooks, accommodation, and living expenses. But there are plenty of ways to get support.
If you’re applying to VUT, you may qualify for:
Merit bursaries or departmental scholarships
External bursaries from companies or foundations
Final Tips for Applying to VUT
Before you hit “submit,” here are a few quick reminders to give your application the best possible chance:
Apply early—don’t wait until the last week before closing.
Double-check your documents—they must be clear, complete, and recently certified.
Track your application—check your status often in case more info is needed.
Respond to any VUT emails or SMSes quickly.
Use FundiMatch if you’re still deciding what to study.
Need Help Funding Your Future? Fundi’s Got You
Don’t let money hold you back from reaching your goals. Fundi offers student loans to help you cover everything from tuition and registration to accommodation and textbooks.
Applying is easy:
Visit the Fundi website
Choose your loan option
Submit your details and application
After that, a friendly Fundi consultant will be in touch to guide you through the rest. Your future is worth investing in—Fundi can help make it happen.
