Dlamini BlessingFor many South African students, not meeting the standard APS requirements for a desired programme can feel discouraging. However, the Central University of Technology (CUT) in Bloemfontein offers several accessible pathways for students with lower Admission Point Scores. Through Higher Certificate programmes, Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECP), and selection test opportunities, CUT provides genuine opportunities for students who may not have achieved the highest matric results .
This guide covers everything you need to know about low APS courses at CUT, including specific programmes, admission requirements, alternative pathways, and tips for success.
Low APS Score Courses at CUT
Higher Certificate Programmes (APS 27)
Higher Certificates are NQF Level 5 qualifications that typically take one year to complete. They are the most accessible entry point at CUT for students who may not meet diploma or degree requirements. Upon successful completion, Higher Certificates can serve as stepping stones to diploma or degree programmes .
The standard APS requirement for most Higher Certificates at CUT is 27 points . However, the selection process for applicants with scores between 23 and 26 may be possible depending on space availability and performance on selection tests .
Higher Certificate in Community Development Work
This one-year programme prepares students for careers in community development, local government, and social services .
APS Requirement: 27 (candidates with scores lower than 26 may be subject to a selection process)
English Requirement: 50%
Duration: 1 year full-time (2 years part-time)
NQF Level: 5
What You Will Study:
– Academic Literacy and Communication Studies
– Numeracy
– Digital Literacy
– Participative Development Practices
– Sustainable Development Theory
– Legislation and Municipal Processes
– Project Management
– Ethics, Rights and Democracy
– Work-integrated Learning
Career Opportunities: Sustainable community development, rural and urban development, local government, Integrated Development Planning (IDP), Local Economic Development (LED) initiatives, human settlements, and community health matters such as HIV/AIDS .
After successful completion, students can progress to further studies in Public Management, Development Studies, or related fields.
Higher Certificate in Construction
This one-year programme provides foundation studies for careers within the built environment .
APS Requirement: 27 (candidates with 23-26 may be considered for selection process)
Mathematics Requirement: 50% in Mathematics (Mathematical Literacy is not accepted)
Physical Sciences Requirement: 50%
Duration: 1 year
NQF Level: 5
What You Will Study:
– Construction and the Environment
– Construction Management
– Construction Mathematics
– Construction Technology
– Measurement, Estimating and Tendering
– Physical Building Science
– Site Establishment and Supervision
Career Opportunities: Foundation for further studies in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or Civil Engineering. Leads to potential registration as a Candidate Professional with SACQSP or SACPCMP .
Higher Certificate in Computer Networking
This programme provides foundational IT and networking skills .
APS Requirement: 27
Duration: 1 year
NQF Level: 5
Higher Certificate in Mechanical Engineering
This programme provides foundational engineering knowledge .
APS Requirement: 27
Duration: 1 year
NQF Level: 5
Higher Certificate in Mathematics for Engineering Technology
This programme is designed for students who need to strengthen their mathematics before pursuing engineering degrees .
APS Requirement: 27
Duration: 1 year
NQF Level: 5
Selection Test Pathway (APS 23-26)
If your APS is between 23 and 26, you may still have a chance at admission through CUT’s selection test process .
How the Selection Test Works
Not all programmes offer this pathway. Availability depends on space and faculty policy .
Eligibility: Applicants with APS scores between 23 and 26 may be invited to write a selection test .
Competitive Process: If the programme is already full of applicants who meet the minimum 27 APS requirement, you may not be given the opportunity to write the test .
Test Content: The selection test typically assesses academic potential, subject-specific knowledge, and English proficiency .
Programmes That May Offer Selection Test Options
Based on CUT’s official information, the following programmes may consider applicants with scores below 27 through a selection process :
– Higher Certificate in Community Development Work
– Higher Certificate in Construction
– Agricultural Management (22-26 points may require selection test)
– Some Diploma programmes depending on space availability
Important Note: Meeting the minimum APS for a selection test does not guarantee admission. You must perform well on the test and there must be available space in the programme.
Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECP) – Lower APS Pathway
CUT offers Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECPs) designed specifically for students who do not meet the minimum requirements for mainstream programmes .
What is ECP?
Extended curriculum programmes were designed to equip students who do not meet the minimum requirements with the necessary competencies to be successful in their studies. Academic support and skills development are integrated with regular academic work .
Key Features of ECP:
Lower entry requirements than mainstream programmes
Additional foundation year to build academic skills
Compulsory Academic Literacy and Communication Studies module
Personal Information Management (PIM) module for all first-time entering students
Students cannot transfer to the mainstream programme after completing ECP; they must complete the full ECP
Compulsory Support Modules for All First-Year Students
Regardless of which programme you enter, all first-time entering students at CUT must complete certain foundational modules :
Academic Language Proficiency (ALP) Test: All first-year students write this test at the beginning of the academic year. Students who fail must complete the Academic Literacy and Communication Studies Module.
Personal Information Management (PIM 5011/PIM 5012): This compulsory module is offered by the Library and Information Services to all first-time entering students. It covers information literacy and research skills .
How to Access ECPs
ECPs are available in select faculties. To find out if your desired programme has an ECP option, you must contact the specific faculty or department directly. The CUT website provides faculty contact information for this purpose.
TVET College Articulation Pathway
Students who have completed NC(V) Level 4 or N4-N6 qualifications at a TVET college may be eligible for admission to CUT programmes in the same field of specialisation .
Minimum Requirements for NC(V) Level 4 Students
Higher Certificate Entry:
– 40% in English
– 30% in either Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
– 40% in Life Orientation
– 50% in four vocational subjects
Diploma Entry:
– 50% in three fundamental subjects, one of which must be English
– 60% in three compulsory vocational modules
Bachelor’s Degree Entry:
– 60% in three fundamental subjects, one of which must be English
– 70% in three compulsory vocational modules
Important: NC(V) applicants will only be considered for admission into programmes of similar specialisation. For example, NC(V) Tourism applicants will be considered for the Diploma in Tourism Management only, and no other specialisation.
Low APS Courses Without Strict Mathematics Requirements
Many students struggle with mathematics. The following programmes at CUT have flexible mathematics requirements or accept Mathematical Literacy .
Higher Certificate in Community Development Work
APS Requirement: 27 (selection possible for 23-26)
Mathematics Requirement: None specified
English Requirement: 50%
Higher Certificate in Computer Networking
APS Requirement: 27
Mathematics Requirement: May accept Mathematical Literacy
Higher Certificate in Mathematics for Engineering Technology
APS Requirement: 27
Mathematics Requirement: Designed for students needing maths improvement
Diploma in Design and Studio Art
APS Requirement: 27
Mathematics Requirement: Flexible
Additional Requirement: Portfolio may be required
Diploma in Language Practice and Media Studies
APS Requirement: 27
Mathematics Requirement: Flexible
Diploma in Tourism Management
APS Requirement: 28
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy may be accepted (NC(V) pathway available)
Bachelor of Education (Foundation Phase)
APS Requirement: 27
Mathematics Requirement: Flexible (teaching-focused, not mathematics-intensive)
Bachelor of Education (SP & FET) – Language Education
APS Requirement: 27
Mathematics Requirement: Flexible
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
APS Requirement: 27
Mathematics Requirement: None
Important Note: Programmes in Engineering, Construction, and most Sciences require Pure Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy). For example, the Higher Certificate in Construction explicitly states that Mathematical Literacy will not be accepted .
Quick Reference Table
| Qualification Type | NQF Level | Duration | Minimum APS | Selection Test Possible | ECP Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Higher Certificate in Community Development Work | 5 | 1 year | 27 | Yes (23–26) | Contact faculty |
| Higher Certificate in Construction | 5 | 1 year | 27 | Yes (23–26) | No (Maths Lit not accepted) |
| Higher Certificate in Computer Networking | 5 | 1 year | 27 | Possibly | Contact faculty |
| Higher Certificate in Mechanical Engineering | 5 | 1 year | 27 | Possibly | Contact faculty |
| Higher Certificate in Mathematics for Engineering | 5 | 1 year | 27 | Possibly | Contact faculty |
| Diploma in Information Technology | 6 | 2 years | 27 | Possibly | Contact faculty |
| Diploma in Electrical Engineering | 6 | 2 years | 27 | Possibly | Contact faculty |
| Diploma in Agricultural Management | 6 | 2 years | 27 | Yes (22–26) | Contact faculty |
| Diploma in Design and Studio Art | 6 | 2 years | 27 | Possibly | Contact faculty |
| Diploma in Human Resources Management | 6 | 2 years | 30 | Possibly | Contact faculty |
| Diploma in Tourism Management | 6 | 2 years | 28 | Possibly | Contact faculty |
| Bachelor of Education (Foundation Phase) | 7 | 3 years | 27 | Possibly | Contact faculty |
| Bachelor of Laws (LLB) | 7 | 3 years | 27 | Possibly | Contact faculty |
General Admission Requirements
English Language Requirement
All programmes at CUT require a minimum mark of 50% in English (Home Language or First Additional Language) . For Higher Certificates, some flexibility may exist, but 50% is the standard.
Mathematics Requirements
– Programmes in Engineering, Construction, and Sciences: Pure Mathematics required (Mathematical Literacy not accepted)
– Programmes in Humanities, Education, and some Business fields: Mathematical Literacy may be accepted
– Always check the specific subject requirements for your chosen programme
Life Orientation
Life Orientation is given a score of 1 point only, regardless of the percentage achieved .
NC(V) Applicants
Students with NC(V) Level 4 qualifications must meet specific subject requirements and will only be considered for programmes in the same field of specialisation.
Application Tips for Students with Low APS
Start with a Higher Certificate
If your APS is below 27 for a diploma or degree, apply for a Higher Certificate programme. These have lower entry requirements (27 APS) and upon successful completion can lead to further studies .
Consider the Selection Test Pathway
If your APS is between 23 and 26, inquire whether your desired programme offers a selection test. Perform well on the test and apply early to increase your chances .
Explore Extended Curriculum Programmes
ECPs are specifically designed for students who do not meet mainstream requirements. They offer additional academic support and a slower pace of study .
Apply Early
CUT operates on a space-available basis. Applying early increases your chances of being offered a place, even if you only meet the minimum requirements .
Ensure Your Application is Complete
Incomplete applications will not be processed. Double-check that you have uploaded all required documents before the closing date.
Have a Backup Plan
Apply to multiple programmes, including Higher Certificates, to increase your chances of acceptance. Consider TVET colleges as an alternative pathway if needed .
Improve Your Mathematics If Needed
If you are interested in engineering or science programmes but lack Pure Mathematics, consider upgrading your mathematics qualification through a bridging programme or TVET college before applying to CUT.
How to Apply
Application Fee
Application fees apply. Check the CUT website for current fee amounts .
Required Documents
When applying, you will need certified copies of:
– Your South African ID or passport
– Your National Senior Certificate or latest Grade 12 results
– Academic transcripts (if applicable)
How to Apply
Applications are submitted online through the official CUT website at www.cut.ac.za .
For any queries, you can contact the relevant faculty directly. Faculty contact information is available on the CUT website.
Understanding APS at CUT
What is APS?
Your Admission Point Score (APS) is calculated from your National Senior Certificate (NSC) results. Each subject percentage is converted into points, and these points are added together to give your total APS. Life Orientation is given a score of only 1 point regardless of the percentage achieved .
CUT APS Scoring Table
NSC Percentage / Achievement Level / APS Points
90-100% / Level 7 / 8
80-89% / Level 7 / 7
70-79% / Level 6 / 6
60-69% / Level 5 / 5
50-59% / Level 4 / 4
40-49% / Level 3 / 3
30-39% / Level 2 / 2
0-29% / Level 1 / 1
Source: CUT official prospectus
Minimum APS to Study at CUT
The standard minimum APS for most programmes at CUT is 27 points .
Important Distinction:
If your APS is between 24 and 26, you may be eligible to write a selection test. However, if the programme is full of applicants who meet the minimum 27 APS and above, you may not be given the opportunity. Try to have more than the minimum. It should not be your target number .
If your APS is 23 or lower, you will generally not be considered for mainstream diploma or degree programmes. However, Higher Certificates and Extended Curriculum Programmes may still be options .
Conclusion
A low APS score does not have to end your dream of studying at the Central University of Technology. While the standard minimum APS for most programmes is 27, CUT offers several accessible pathways through Higher Certificate programmes, selection test opportunities, and Extended Curriculum Programmes.
Higher Certificates are your best entry point if your APS is between 23 and 27. The Higher Certificate in Community Development Work explicitly states that candidates with scores lower than 26 may be subject to a selection process . The Higher Certificate in Construction also offers selection test possibilities for applicants with scores between 23 and 26.
For students who have completed TVET qualifications, NC(V) Level 4 and N4-N6 programmes provide clear articulation pathways into CUT diplomas and degrees in the same field of specialisation.
The key is to apply early, explore all available pathways, and choose a programme that matches your strengths. If you do not meet the requirements for your first-choice programme, start with a Higher Certificate or ECP and use it as a stepping stone to your desired qualification. Your matric results do not define your future, and at CUT, the door to higher education remains open.