CPUT Admission Requirements 2026/2027

Important Notes on CPUT Admission

• Admission to CPUT is competitive. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee a place.
• Many programmes require APS scores in the mid-20s or higher (some 30+). For example, Bachelor of Commerce requires approximately 30 APS.
• NSC results must meet faculty-specific requirements: Bachelor’s degrees require a Bachelor’s pass, Diplomas require a Diploma pass, and Higher Certificates require a Higher Certificate pass.
• For the full list of APS requirements by programme, visit CPUT 2026 APS Requirements.
• To apply, visit the official CPUT application portal at www.cput.ac.za/study-at-cput/undergraduate/apply.

CAPE PENINSULA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ADMISSION REQUIREMENT

Admission requirements for the different courses offered at CPUT can be found above. You may also be required to complete a series of tests to assist in the placement process. Students following the Cambridge system should take note of the following requirements:

• Passes in at least five different subjects of the IGCSE and HIGCSE study levels, of which at least two are HIGCSE level subjects.
• A pass in the language which is the medium of instruction at the University (English or Afrikaans).
• Specific pass grades: IGCSE: A, B or C; HIGCSE: 1, 2 or 3.

Other senior school qualifications will be reviewed on merit.

Evaluation of foreign qualifications

All applicants applying with a foreign qualification towards both undergraduate and postgraduate studies MUST have their qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) prior to submitting their application forms (see below). The onus is on the student to apply timeously to SAQA, as this may take a bit longer. You should include the following with your application:

• All qualification documents, i.e. the highest school certificate issued by the official examining body,.
• Complete and legible transcripts of academic records in respect of all degrees or other higher education qualifications, together with the final certificates, preceding qualifications leading to any post-graduate or other advanced qualification when the latter is submitted.
• Certificates in foreign languages should be submitted with sworn translations into English by an accredited translator.
• A check made out to SAQA. Information on the relevant evaluation fee can be obtained from the SAQA.

English-language proficiency

• To be successful in your studies, you need a certain level of proficiency in English. This includes a pass in English at A-level or O-level; a Test in English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of at least 550; or a 6.5 on the International Testing System (IELTS). Other post-school English language qualifications will be evaluated on merit.
• The Fundani Centre for Higher Educational Development supports students through a mentorship programme to develop their English Proficiency within their discipline of study.

CAPE PENINSULA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, CPUT POSTGRADUATE ADMISSION REQUIREMENT

Postgraduate Diplomas Requirements

• An appropriate Bachelor’s degree OR
• Admission to the status of that degree  OR
• Attained a level of competence
• Some schools and colleges may accept an Advanced Diploma for entry into a Postgraduate Diploma if HEQF  (Higher Education Qualification Framework) requirements are met.

Duration

• A minimum of at least two consecutive semesters. Except with permission of Senate, all modules shall be completed at the University.

Curriculum

• The curriculum will contain advanced reflection, practice and research methods in the area of specialisation and may include a sustained research project in accordance with College rules approved by Senate.

Bachelor of Honours Degrees Requirements

• An appropriate Bachelor’s degree OR
• Admission to the status of that degree OR
• Attained a level of competence

Duration

• A minimum of at least two consecutive semesters. Except with permission of Senate, all modules shall be completed at the University.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the Honours degree shall include a prescribed research project as one of the modules, which shall account for a minimum of 25% of the credits for the degree. Masters by Coursework and Masters by Research Requirements

• A relevant prerequisite degree OR
• Admission to the status of that degree OR
• Attained a level of competence

Duration Coursework

• A minimum of two consecutive semesters (full-time) or 4 consecutive semesters (part-time) before the degree may be conferred.
• With permission and in terms of College regulations, periods of attendance at graduate level at another institution or in another College may be accepted. (Consult with relevant school.).

Research

• A minimum of two consecutive semesters (full-time) or 4 consecutive semesters (part-time) before the degree may be conferred.

Research

• Candidates shall be required to pursue an appropriate programme of research on a subject falling within the scope of the studies presented at the university. Students must also adhere to possible other conditions prescribed by colleges and schools.

Doctor of philosophy or supervised Doctor degrees by research 

Requirements

• A relevant prerequisite degree OR
• Admission to the status of that degree

Duration

• A minimum of four consecutive semesters (full-time) or eight consecutive semesters (part-time) before the degree may be conferred.

Curriculum

• Students will be required to pursue an approved programme of research on a subject falling within the scope of studies at the University. Such a programme shall make a distinct contribution to the knowledge or understanding of the subject and afford evidence of originality shown either by the discovery of new facts or by the exercise of independent critical power. Students must also adhere to other possible conditions prescribed by colleges and schools.