Central University of Technology, Free State

About CUT

Central University of Technology grew out of Technikon Free State and offers career-focused qualifications from its main Bloemfontein campus, with a satellite campus in Welkom serving the Free State goldfields region.

Its programmes lean towards engineering, ICT and management sciences, with an emphasis on workplace-integrated learning and applied research. CUT has also built a growing reputation in 3D printing and product design research, an unusual specialisation among South Africa's universities of technology.

As one of the smaller public universities, CUT offers a more compact, closely supported campus experience than some of its larger neighbours, while still providing direct pathways into technical careers across the central South African economy.

Why students choose CUT

• Notable research strength in 3D printing and product design
• Satellite campus serving the Free State goldfields
• Compact, closely supported campus environment

Fields of study

• Engineering, Built Environment & IT
• Health & Environmental Sciences
• Humanities
• Management Sciences

What you'll need to apply

Every South African public university sets its own admission point score and subject requirements per programme, so the details below are general guidance rather than CUT-specific rules — always confirm exact requirements on the official site before applying.

• A National Senior Certificate (NSC) that meets the minimum admission point score for your chosen programme.
• Specific subject and mark requirements, which vary by faculty — competitive programmes like medicine or engineering typically set higher thresholds.
• An online application through the university's own portal, usually opening the year before you intend to start.
• Supporting documents such as certified copies of your ID and academic records, and proof of application fee payment where applicable.