Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) is the only university of technology in the Western Cape Province and a leading public higher education institution offering career-focused undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications. Established in 2005 through a merger of Cape Technikon (founded 1920) and Peninsula Technikon (founded 1962), CPUT brings together nearly two centuries of technical and vocational education excellence. The university is committed to developing skilled professionals equipped to advance technology, innovation, and economic development across South Africa.
CPUT is fully accredited by the Department of Higher Education and Training and the Council on Higher Education, and all qualifications are registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and internationally recognized. The university maintains rigorous academic standards while emphasizing applied learning, industry engagement, and practical skill development. With six campuses strategically located across the Cape Town metropolitan area, CPUT serves thousands of students annually, fostering an inclusive educational environment.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology opens online applications for 2026 through its official application portal. Applications typically open in May with most programmes closing on 31 October, though some specialized programmes have earlier closing dates. The university operates on an annual intake cycle with the main academic year commencing in February 2026. Prospective students are strongly advised to apply early, as popular programmes may reach maximum capacity before the official closing date, particularly for Engineering and Information Technology qualifications.
NSFAS applications for 2026 typically run concurrently with university applications (August through October), with students applying directly through the NSFAS portal at www.nsfas.org.za. It is critical to apply for NSFAS funding at the same time as submitting your CPUT application. Late applications may be considered for programmes with available capacity. For the most current application dates, visit cput.ac.za/study/apply or contact the Admissions Office.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology’s tuition fees vary by programme and are reviewed annually. Online applications are free, though manual or postal applications require a non-refundable fee of R100. Tuition fees are typically payable in monthly installments from February, with payment plans available to accommodate student financial circumstances.
Beyond tuition fees, students should budget for accommodation, study materials and textbooks (typically R2,000-R4,000 annually), laboratory or practical course fees (for STEM programmes), and general living expenses. Students from households with annual income of R350,000 or less (or R600,000 for those with disabilities) qualify for NSFAS funding, which covers tuition fees and may extend to living allowances. This makes CPUT accessible to capable students regardless of financial circumstances. The university’s official 2026 fee schedule is available at cput.ac.za.
To qualify for admission to Cape Peninsula University of Technology, applicants must hold a valid South African National Senior Certificate (Grade 12) or equivalent qualification. The university calculates an Admission Point Score (APS) based on your best six subjects, excluding Life Orientation. Each subject is assigned points from 0-7 based on your final mark. Different programmes have different minimum APS requirements; highly competitive programmes such as Engineering and IT typically require higher APS scores (often 40+).
Faculty-specific requirements vary by programme: Engineering programmes require Mathematics and Physical Sciences as compulsory subjects with specific minimum grades. Business and Commerce programmes may require Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, English, and Accounting or Economics. Health Sciences programmes have specific science subject requirements. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through IELTS (minimum 6.5) or TOEFL (minimum 88).
NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) funding is available to qualifying South African students enrolled at CPUT. To be eligible for NSFAS in 2026, your household income must not exceed R350,000 per annum (or R600,000 if you have a disability). NSFAS funding covers tuition fees fully and extends to living allowances (accommodation, meals, books, transport) for eligible students. Applications are submitted through www.nsfas.org.za.
Beyond NSFAS, CPUT maintains numerous bursary and scholarship programmes funded by private donors, corporations, and NGOs. Specific scholarships exist for students excelling in Engineering, Hospitality, and Health Sciences, and for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Merit-based scholarships reward academic excellence, while need-based bursaries support capable students facing financial hardship. Some bursaries are tied to service commitments providing both support and employment pathways.
Students not qualifying for NSFAS can access extended fee payment plans, spreading costs across the academic year. The Student Finance Office can negotiate alternative payment arrangements and facilitates access to private student loans through approved financial institutions. Early engagement with the Student Finance Office increases the likelihood of securing appropriate funding.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology operates six campuses across the Cape Town metropolitan area. The Bellville Campus serves as the main administrative centre housing multiple faculties with libraries, computer labs, engineering workshops, and student residences. The Granger Bay Campus in the city centre specializes in Hospitality and Tourism with commercial kitchens and service training areas. The District 6 Campus focuses on Health Sciences and Nursing with clinical training facilities. The Mowbray Campus and Wellington Campus support specialized academic functions. All major campuses maintain modern learning facilities, student support services, libraries, computing facilities, and recreational amenities.
Prospective students apply to Cape Peninsula University of Technology through the university’s official online application portal at cput.ac.za/study/apply. Online applications are free and can be submitted anytime during the application period (typically May through October for 2026). Register on the portal, create an account, complete the application form, select your preferred programme(s), and submit. The online system provides real-time status updates and email notifications.
Required supporting documents include a certified Grade 12 certificate or equivalent qualification, valid South African ID or international passport, proof of residence, and academic transcripts. Upload these as PDF files. CPUT’s Admissions Office reviews applications within 4-6 weeks and notifies you via email. If accepted, complete enrollment registration, settle fees or confirm NSFAS disbursement, and provide final documentation before the registration deadline. For queries contact the CPUT Admissions Office or visit the Bellville Campus during office hours.
Official Website: cput.ac.za – Visit for comprehensive information about all programmes, the online application portal, fee schedules, prospectus, news, and student resources.
Main Campus: CPUT Bellville Campus serves as the main administrative center, housing multiple faculties with comprehensive facilities. The Granger Bay Campus specializes in hospitality and tourism. The District 6 Campus focuses on health sciences and nursing. The Mowbray Campus and Wellington Campus support specialized functions.
Student Support Services: The university provides comprehensive support including academic advising, career guidance, counseling, health services, disability support, and student development programmes. Accommodation assistance, financial aid counseling, tutoring, and wellness support are all available. International student services include visa guidance and cultural orientation.
Student Finance Office: Assists with NSFAS applications, fee payment options, bursary enquiries, and negotiating alternative payment arrangements for students facing financial hardship.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology offers a comprehensive range of Bachelor’s Degrees, National Diplomas, and Postgraduate Qualifications across multiple faculties. The university houses several academic faculties including Engineering, Business & Management, Health & Wellness Sciences, and Informatics & Design. Bachelor’s degree programmes span engineering disciplines (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical), business management, information technology, hospitality management, nursing, radiography, and many other fields.
The university also offers National Diplomas providing specialized technical training, and postgraduate qualifications including Honours, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees. CPUT’s teaching approach combines theoretical knowledge with substantial practical experience through internships, workplace-integrated learning, and industry partnerships. Many programmes include work-integrated learning (WIL) components where students gain practical experience through placement in relevant organizations. The university offers both full-time and part-time study options for certain programmes.