First-time applicants to the Durban University of Technology (DUT) apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO), so your application status is available on the CAO system. DUT then contacts successful applicants directly. The guidance below comes from DUT's How to Apply 2027 guide and its Study Opportunities guide.
Check the CAO system
DUT's guide says your application status is available on the CAO system. Consult the CAO website for any changes or updates to your application.
How DUT evaluates your application
After the CAO receives your application and fee, DUT evaluates it. If the outcome is positive, you receive a notification from the CAO and an acceptance package or communication directly from DUT. Applicants are notified of the outcome by email or SMS.
Your application must be active
Your CAO application only becomes active once your payment is received. The fee is R250 for South African citizens and R300 for international applicants. For 2027, applications had to reach the CAO by 30 September 2026, and some programmes closed earlier.
Residence status
If you indicated on your application that you need residence, the Housing Department contacts you once the outcome of your application is finalised and positive. Student Housing emails an application link to applicants who accept a firm offer.
Important to know
- Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee acceptance.
- Submitting a complete application does not guarantee selection, admission or registration.
- Departments rank applicants, and some programmes add interviews, portfolios or tests.
What to have ready
When you apply through the CAO, have your cellphone and an active email address ready, and upload certified copies of your ID and your final Grade 11 and Grade 12 results, or your June or trial report. Make sure your application and fee both reach the CAO before the closing date.
Selection by points
DUT ranks applicants by a points system for many programmes, so your status may stay pending until a department has ranked everyone. Applicants whose points put them at risk may be placed in an extended curriculum programme.
Former students
If you have studied at DUT or another university before, you apply through DUT's own online application, not the CAO, and track that application with DUT.
International results
If you have international or IEB results, your results must be evaluated for equivalence, by SAQA for diplomas or the Universities South Africa Matriculation Board for degrees. This can affect how quickly your status updates.
NSFAS status
Track your NSFAS application separately on the myNSFAS portal, using the reference number NSFAS sends to your phone and email.
Getting help
For CAO questions, consult the CAO website. See the DUT student portal page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I check my DUT application status?
On the CAO system, because first-time applicants apply through the CAO.
How will DUT tell me the outcome?
By email or SMS, with an acceptance package if successful.
When is my DUT CAO application active?
Only once the CAO receives your payment.