Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)

Cape Peninsula University of Technology, known as CPUT, is the only university of technology in the Western Cape. It was established on 1 January 2005 and offers more than 70 career-focused programmes. There is no fee for its online application, which keeps the cost of applying low.

About CPUT

CPUT formed through the merger of the Cape Technikon and the Peninsula Technikon. Their histories reflect apartheid's divisions. The Cape Technikon was built on part of the District Six land to serve white students only. Meanwhile, the Peninsula Technikon moved to Bellville in 1967, and that site is now CPUT's administrative campus.

Today, CPUT has five campuses and three service points, with more than 30,000 students. As a university of technology, it focuses on qualifications that prepare students directly for work.

Faculties

CPUT teaches through six faculties: Applied Sciences; Business and Management Sciences; Education; Informatics and Design; Engineering and the Built Environment; and Health and Wellness Sciences. Many programmes include work-integrated learning, where students spend time in a real workplace as part of their studies.

Applying to CPUT

CPUT opened undergraduate applications for 2027 on 11 May 2026. Closing dates differ by programme. Most bachelor's and diploma programmes closed on 30 September 2026 for South African citizens, permanent residents and refugees, and on 31 August 2026 for other applicants. Several health programmes, such as Emergency Medical Care, closed on 31 July 2026, and some higher certificates closed on 30 June 2026.

Because the dates vary so much, look up your programme in CPUT's table of closing dates. The university's application FAQ confirms that there is no fee for online applications.

Fees and funding

Tuition depends on your programme and campus. CPUT lists bursary opportunities for its students, and qualifying students can apply for NSFAS. Many companies also fund CPUT engineering and technical students. Browse our bursaries to find more options.

Is CPUT right for you?

CPUT suits students who want a practical qualification in Cape Town, especially in engineering, design, IT, health or business. Since some health programmes close in July, check your programme's date early in your matric year.

Also think about which campus suits you, because CPUT's programmes are spread across several sites. Then check that your chosen programme runs on the campus you can reach most easily, since travel across Cape Town can take a long time.

Before you apply to CPUT

Check the admission requirements for your programme on CPUT's apply page, because each qualification sets its own points and subject levels. Then note your closing date, which can be as early as June or July for some programmes. Keep your application number, because you use it to follow your outcome.