What is the entrance test for DUT?

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) is a popular choice for students in South Africa seeking quality higher education. For prospective students, understanding the entrance requirements, including any necessary entrance tests, is essential for a successful application.

Entrance Requirements Overview

Undergraduate Programs

For undergraduate programs at DUT, such as Higher Certificates, Diplomas, and Degrees, applicants must apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO). The application process for international students includes several critical steps:

  1. Application Timeline: International applicants should apply as early as possible. The deadline for applications is September 30 of the intended year of study.
  2. Application Fees: There is an application fee that must be paid upon submission.
  3. Notification: Applicants will receive notifications regarding the outcome of their applications via email or SMS.

For assistance, prospective students can reach out to the DUT Admissions department through various channels:

  • WhatsApp: +27 834451282 / +27 834460459 / +27 834541495 / +27 834543477 / +27 834516751 / +27 834413766
  • Telephone: +27 31 373 5005

Academic Requirements

Diploma Programmes

To qualify for diploma programmes, international applicants must present equivalent qualifications, such as:

  • A General Certificate of Education (GCE) or General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE), where applicants must have:
    • Passed a minimum of five approved Ordinary (O) Level subjects, including:
      • At least four at grades A, B, or C
      • No more than one at grade D
      • At least one must be English Language or English Literature
  • For other international qualifications, a South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) evaluation may be required.

Degree/Bachelor Programmes

For degree programmes, applicants must undergo a Matriculation Board Evaluation.

For additional information, prospective students can contact the Matriculation Board:

What to Expect in the Entrance Test

While DUT does not have a specific entrance test, the entrance requirements and qualifications outlined above serve as a benchmark for admission. The final pass mark for all subjects is set at 50%, meaning students must perform adequately across their qualifications to be eligible.

Preparing for Admission

To improve your chances of successful admission to DUT, it’s advisable to:

  1. Review Entry Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements for the program you are applying to.
  2. Seek Guidance: Reach out to the admissions department for any clarifications or assistance you may need during the application process.
  3. Plan Ahead: Ensure that you complete your application before the deadline, allowing ample time for any required evaluations.

Conclusion

Understanding the entrance requirements and application process for DUT is essential for prospective students, especially international applicants. By preparing well and meeting the necessary qualifications, students can pave the way for their academic journey at one of South Africa’s leading universities.

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Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.

📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
  • Have a valid South African ID.
  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.

  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.

  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.

  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
    • Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.

  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.

  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.

💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).

🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.

🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information

📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.

 

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