Central University of Technology (CUT)

Central University of Technology, Free State, known as CUT, is a university of technology based in Bloemfontein, with a second campus in Welkom. It opened in 1981 and took its current name in 2004. CUT charges no application fee, and it warns students to avoid anyone who asks for money to help them apply.

About CUT

CUT started in 1981 as the Technikon Orange Free State, with 285 students enrolled mainly in secretarial, art and design programmes. In January 2004, as part of the national restructuring of higher education, the Technikon Free State and the Welkom campus of Vista University merged to form CUT. The new name was published in the Government Gazette on 26 March 2004.

The university has grown well beyond its first intake. In 2019, it reported a total enrolment of about 21,200 students, with roughly a fifth of them at the Welkom campus.

Faculties and campuses

CUT teaches through four faculties: Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology; Health and Environmental Sciences; Humanities; and Management Sciences. The main campus is in Bloemfontein, and the Welkom campus offers a smaller range of programmes. CUT also runs a set of fully online qualifications.

Applying to CUT

For the 2027 intake, CUT opened applications in April 2026. Undergraduate applications, including advanced diplomas, postgraduate diplomas, Honours and structured Master's programmes, closed on 30 September 2026. Some programmes closed earlier because of high demand, and CUT does not accept late applications or walk-ins.

Research Master's and doctoral applications close on 30 March 2027. CUT's online programmes had a separate deadline of 30 November 2026, for classes starting on 18 January 2027. Applicants receive their outcomes in mid-January 2027, and first-year registration runs from 18 to 22 January 2027.

Fees and funding

CUT does not charge an application fee, and it has no authorised consultants who help with applications. Tuition depends on your programme. Qualifying students can apply for NSFAS, and you can browse our bursaries for more funding options.

Is CUT right for you?

CUT suits students in the Free State who want a practical, technology-focused qualification. Because applying is free and the main round closes at the end of September, it is easy to add CUT to your list.

Before you apply to CUT

Check the requirements for your programme, and decide whether you want to study in Bloemfontein, in Welkom or online. Because some popular programmes close early, apply as soon as the window opens in April. Never pay anyone who offers to apply on your behalf, as CUT has no authorised consultants. Watch your email in January, when the university sends its outcomes.