Durban University of Technology (DUT) generally requires APS scores between 24–32 for diploma and degree programmes. However, there are entry-level options for students with lower APS scores, particularly Higher Certificate programmes and select diplomas.

Low APS Score Courses at DUT (2026)

Courses with Lower APS Requirements (24 or Below)

Based on the DUT 2026 Student Course Brochure, only two programmes are listed with APS requirements of 24:

Course	Faculty	APS Requirement
Higher Certificate in Sport Management Science	Applied Sciences	24
Diploma in Drama	Arts and Design	24

These represent the most accessible entry points for students with lower APS scores. No courses below APS 24 were listed in Accounting, Informatics, Engineering, Health Sciences, or Management Sciences.

Higher Certificate Programmes (APS 27)

If your APS is 27 or higher, DUT offers several Higher Certificate programmes that serve as entry-level qualifications. These are designed to provide foundational knowledge and can lead to diploma studies.

Faculty of Accounting and Informatics:

Higher Certificate in Information Technology
Higher Certificate in ICT: Computer Networking
Higher Certificate in ICT: Applications Development (Foundation Programme)

Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment:

Higher Certificate in Mechanical Engineering
Higher Certificate in Construction
Higher Certificate in Mathematics for Engineering Technology

Faculty of Management Sciences:

Higher Certificate in Office Administration
Higher Certificate in Community Development Work

Entry Requirements:

Minimum APS: 27
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: Level 3
English (Home or First Additional Language): Level 3
Pass at least four 20-credit recognised subjects

Career Pathway:

Provides entry-level qualifications for the job market.
Can serve as a stepping stone into diploma programmes at DUT, depending on performance and space availability.

Diploma Programmes with APS 24–28

Several diploma programmes fall within the 24–28 APS range, making them accessible to students with lower scores.

Faculty of Accounting and Informatics:

Applications Development
Business Analysis
Accounting

Faculty of Applied Sciences:

Analytical Chemistry
Somatology

Faculty of Arts and Design:

Drama (APS 24)
Fashion
Interior Design
Jewellery Design

Faculty of Management Sciences:

Public Administration
Tourism and Hospitality

Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment:

Engineering Technology
Nautical Science

Note: While APS scores are the baseline, some diplomas require specific subject passes (e.g., Mathematics or Physical Science). Always check the detailed subject requirements in the official prospectus.

Understanding APS at DUT

APS Calculation:

Based on your six best NSC subjects (excluding Life Orientation, max 1 point).
Points allocation:
- 90–100% = 7 points
- 80–89% = 6 points
- 70–79% = 5 points
- 60–69% = 4 points
- 50–59% = 3 points
- 40–49% = 2 points
- 0–39% = 1 point

General Minimum APS Requirements:

Higher Certificates (NQF 5): 27 APS (some exceptions at 24 APS).
Diplomas (NQF 6): 24–27 APS.
Bachelor’s Degrees (NQF 7/8): 28–32 APS.

Late Application Opportunities (2026)

DUT opens a late application window for selected undergraduate programmes each year. For 2026, available options include:

Degree Programmes:

Built Environment in Geomatics
Built Environment in Construction Studies
Built Environment in Urban and Regional Planning
Applied Science in Textile Science

Diploma Programmes:

Operations Management (Part-Time | Not NSFAS funded)
Ecotourism
Pulp and Paper Technology
Engineering Technology: Civil Engineering
Construction Studies

Bridging Programme:

Accounting Bridging Programme

Late Application Fees:

R470 (new applicants not via CAO)
R140 (change of mind applications)

How to Apply to DUT

Applications are processed through the Central Applications Office (CAO).

Steps:

Visit www.cao.ac.za.
Register and complete the online application.
Select up to 6 course choices.
Upload certified copies of required documents:
- South African ID/passport
- Final Grade 11 or Matric certificate
- Academic transcripts (if applicable)
Pay the application fee and upload proof of payment.

Application Fees:

South African applicants: R250
International applicants: R300

Application Dates:

Open: 1 May 2025
Close: 30 September 2025

Late Application Portal:
https://onlineapps.dut.ac.za

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum APS for DUT diplomas?
Most diplomas require 24 APS, though some demand 27.

Are there DUT courses with APS below 24?
No. The lowest listed is 24 APS (Sport Management Science and Drama).

Does DUT offer bridging courses?
Yes — e.g., the Accounting Bridging Programme.

How do I check if I qualify?
Use the APS calculator on the DUT website or UniWise app, and confirm subject-specific requirements.

Conclusion

DUT provides pathways for students with lower APS scores:

APS 24: Higher Certificate in Sport Management Science, Diploma in Drama.
APS 27: Entry-level Higher Certificate programmes across Accounting, Engineering, and Management Sciences.
APS 24–28: Diplomas in fields like Accounting, Drama, Fashion, Tourism, and Engineering Technology.

If your APS is below 24:

Consider the Accounting Bridging Programme.
Explore late application opportunities.
Contact DUT admissions for guidance.

Final Note: Always verify requirements in the official DUT prospectus, as APS thresholds and subject prerequisites may change.

Note: All information is current as at the time of publishing. Programme availability, fees, and admission requirements are subject to change. Please verify details on the official DUT website or prospectus before applying.