Entry to Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) runs on the Admission Point Score (APS), calculated from your six best subjects, with Life Orientation and any Level 1 (fail) result left out of the total. A general minimum of APS 20 applies across most qualifications, though individual diplomas and degrees push that requirement up to the mid-20s or higher.
This page covers both what you need to qualify, and exactly what documents to submit.
General Admission Requirements
To be considered for a TUT undergraduate programme, you must have:
- A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Bachelor’s degree or Diploma endorsement, or a National Certificate (Vocational) at NQF Level 4 endorsed by Umalusi.
- The minimum APS score specified for your chosen programme.
- The required subject combinations and performance levels for your field of study.
Minimum Subject Performance Levels (General Rule)
| Qualification | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | At least four subjects at performance level 4 (50–59%) |
| Diploma | At least four subjects at performance level 3 (40–49%) |
| English/Maths/Maths Literacy (NCV applicants) | At least 50% (rating 4) |
How APS Is Calculated at TUT
TUT generally requires a minimum APS of 26 for Bachelor’s degree programmes, calculated from your best six subjects. Some competitive programmes require higher scores, while many Diploma and Extended Curriculum Programmes accept applicants with APS scores as low as 20–24.
Important: Meeting the minimum APS does not guarantee admission. TUT programmes are in high demand and spaces fill quickly, especially for popular fields like Engineering, ICT, and Business.
Minimum APS Requirements by Qualification Level (General Guide)
| Qualification Level | Typical Minimum APS |
|---|---|
| Higher Certificate | 18–20 |
| Diploma | 20–26 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 24–34 (varies significantly by faculty) |
| Extended Curriculum Programme (Bachelor’s, 5-year) | Lower than standard Bachelor’s; designed as a bridging route |
Each programme and faculty sets its own minimum APS. Always check the specific requirement for your chosen qualification on the TUT website or in the official Prospectus.
Documents Required for Application
All Applicants Must Submit:
- Certified copy of South African ID (green barcoded ID book or smart ID card).
- Certified copy of your National Senior Certificate (Matric), or most recent results (Grade 11 final results, or mid-year Grade 12 results if final results are not yet available).
- Completed online application form.
- Proof of payment of the R240 non-refundable application fee.
What to Do If You Don’t Meet the Requirements
If your APS score is below the minimum for your first-choice programme, consider:
- Applying for a Higher Certificate in a related field. Many require an APS as low as 18–20, and provide an articulation pathway into a Diploma or Degree.
- Applying for an Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP), TUT’s structured 4- or 5-year bridging route into select Bachelor’s degrees.
- Choosing a Diploma instead of a degree in your field of interest, with the option to progress later.
- Exploring Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) if you have relevant work experience.