Which courses are available at CUT?

The Central University of Technology (CUT) in South Africa offers a variety of programs designed to equip students with industry-relevant skills. This guide provides an overview of the undergraduate and postgraduate courses available at CUT, along with the minimum requirements and other helpful information for prospective students.

Overview of CUT Programs

CUT’s programs are organized by qualification type and NQF level:

  • NQF Level 5: Higher Certificate (1 year, full-time)
  • NQF Level 6: Diploma (2 years, full-time)
  • NQF Level 7: Bachelor’s Degree (3 years, full-time)
  • NQF Level 8: Bachelor’s Degree with Honours or Advanced Diploma (1 year, full-time)

The university has four main faculties:

  1. Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology
  2. Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences
  3. Faculty of Humanities
  4. Faculty of Management Sciences

Each faculty offers a range of programs across various fields of study. Below, we explore the courses offered in each faculty.


1. Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology

This faculty is ideal for students interested in technical and engineering disciplines.

Undergraduate Programs:

  • Civil Engineering (Bachelor, NQF 7)
  • Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor, NQF 7)
  • Electrical Engineering (Bachelor, NQF 7)
  • Computer Networking (Diploma, NQF 6)
  • Renewable Energy Technologies (Bachelor, NQF 7)
  • Construction Management (Bachelor, NQF 7)

Postgraduate Programs:

  • Civil Engineering (Master’s and Doctorate)
  • Mechanical Engineering (Master’s and Doctorate)
  • Quantity Surveying (Master’s)
  • Urban Development (Master’s)

2. Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences

This faculty covers health sciences and environmental management for students interested in healthcare or environmental sectors.

Undergraduate Programs:

  • Dental Assisting (Diploma, NQF 6)
  • Medical Laboratory Sciences (Bachelor, NQF 8)
  • Environmental Health (Bachelor, NQF 7)
  • Somatology (Bachelor, NQF 8)

Postgraduate Programs:

  • Agricultural Management (Master’s and Doctorate)
  • Radiography in Diagnostics (Master’s)

3. Faculty of Humanities

The Humanities faculty is perfect for those aiming for careers in education, language studies, and the arts.

Undergraduate Programs:

  • Foundation Phase Teaching (Bachelor, NQF 7)
  • Language Practice and Media Studies (Bachelor, NQF 7)
  • Design and Studio Art (Diploma, NQF 6)
  • Technology Education (Bachelor, NQF 7)

Postgraduate Programs:

  • Master of Education
  • Language Practice (Master’s and Doctorate)
  • Media Studies (Doctorate)

4. Faculty of Management Sciences

The Management Sciences faculty provides programs for students interested in business, management, and hospitality.

Undergraduate Programs:

  • Human Resources Management (Diploma, NQF 6)
  • Marketing (Diploma, NQF 6)
  • Public Management (Diploma, NQF 6)
  • Hospitality Management (Bachelor, NQF 8)

Postgraduate Programs:

  • Applied Management (Master’s and Doctorate)
  • Entrepreneurial Management (Doctorate)
  • Tourism Management (Master’s and Doctorate)

Admission Requirements

To enroll in most undergraduate programs at CUT, students need a minimum APS (Admission Point Score) of 27. Some courses require higher scores, especially in math and sciences. Here’s a quick breakdown of key requirements:

  • Bachelor’s Programs: Typically need an APS of 27-32, depending on the program.
  • Diploma Programs: Generally require a minimum APS of 27.
  • Higher Certificate Programs: Require a minimum APS of 24, with the possibility of selection tests for scores below the minimum.

How to Choose the Right Program

When considering a program, look at the following:

  1. NQF Level: Higher-level programs lead to advanced degrees and more career opportunities.
  2. APS Requirements: Make sure your high school scores align with the program’s minimum APS.
  3. Subjects Required: Certain programs require specific subjects like Mathematics, Physical Sciences, or English at a certain level.

Final Thoughts

With a diverse range of programs, CUT is a great place to pursue an education aligned with industry needs in South Africa. Whether you’re interested in engineering, healthcare, education, or business, CUT offers multiple pathways to help you build a successful career.

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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.