Central University of Technology (CUT) is a premier public technology university serving the Free State province, with campuses in Bloemfontein and Welkom. CUT specializes in career-focused programmes designed to equip graduates with practical skills demanded by industry and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
CUT operates across four faculties—Engineering, Built Environment and IT; Health and Environmental Sciences; Management Sciences; and Humanities—delivering qualifications from National Diploma (NQF 6) to Doctoral levels (NQF 10). With state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and strong industry partnerships, CUT positions graduates for success in competitive professional environments.
The 2026 application period closed 28 February 2026 for first-time applicants, and undergraduate registration concluded 6 February 2026. However, CUT continues accepting late applications as capacity allows. The primary intake is in February each year.
For the 2027 academic year, monitor www.cut.ac.za for published application dates. Early application is strongly recommended as programmes fill to capacity. Subscribe to CUT’s mailing list or follow official social media for timely updates.
As a public institution, CUT offers significantly lower tuition fees compared to private colleges. Fees vary by programme level, faculty, and specialization. Diploma programmes cost less than bachelor’s degrees, while postgraduate qualifications command higher fees.
Engineering and technology programmes may have higher fees than humanities due to laboratory costs. CUT is fully accredited for NSFAS funding, meaning eligible students can access government assistance. Verify exact fees through the official fee schedule at www.cut.ac.za.
Admission requires a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with minimum 30% in the language of learning, plus achievement rating of 4 (50-59%) in four recognized 20-credit subjects. The APS is calculated by selecting your best six subjects, dividing each percentage by 10, and summing. Most programmes require minimum APS of 27 points; competitive programmes may require 30-32.
Different programmes have specific subject requirements, particularly in mathematics and physical sciences. Applicants with NC(V), N4, N5, or N6 qualifications may be eligible for certain programmes. Contact admissions to verify programme-specific requirements.
CUT is fully accredited for NSFAS funding, meaning eligible students access government financial assistance covering tuition, accommodation, and living expenses. NSFAS provides grants (not loans) to South African citizens from poor and working-class backgrounds, making higher education financially accessible.
To qualify, students must be South African citizens, registered full-time, and meet household income thresholds. NSFAS covers tuition fees and provides living allowances for accommodation, meals, books, and personal necessities. Beyond NSFAS, CUT offers additional bursaries and scholarships for exceptional academic achievement. Contact the financial aid office for guidance on all funding options.
Bloemfontein Campus: The main campus in the Free State capital houses administrative headquarters, main academic facilities, library, sports facilities, student accommodation, and the majority of programmes. Features modern lecture halls, specialized laboratories, and computer facilities.
Welkom Campus: Secondary academic hub in the Lejweleputswa District, focusing on specific diploma and degree programmes in technology-related fields. Both campuses provide full student support services including academic advising, career guidance, counselling, health services, and residential accommodation.
Apply online at www.cut.ac.za/admission-online. Create an account, select your preferred programme, enter academic qualifications, and upload required documentation including NSC, identity document, and other credentials.
The admissions office reviews qualifications against programme entry requirements. Applicants may sit a selection test if APS falls in the borderline range. Successful applicants receive admission letters with registration instructions. For personalized support, visit the Bloemfontein or Welkom campus during office hours.
Website: www.cut.ac.za – Programmes, admissions, fee schedules, and student support services.
Application Portal: www.cut.ac.za/admission-online – Submit applications and track status.
Bloemfontein Campus: Main campus housing central admissions. Contact via phone or email on the website, or visit during office hours.
Welkom Campus: Secondary academic hub in the Lejweleputswa District. Contact details available on the university website.
CUT offers career-focused programmes across all qualification levels. The Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and IT covers civil, mechanical, electrical engineering, software development, and network engineering. The Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences delivers nursing, environmental health, and healthcare disciplines.
The Faculty of Management Sciences provides accounting, financial management, business administration, and supply chain management. The Faculty of Humanities offers education, social work, languages, and communication. All programmes emphasize critical thinking, professional ethics, and practical competence.