Students wait in a line on a road Dozens of prospective students queued outside the Durban University of Technology’s Steve Biko campus on Monday hoping to apply for places. Picture: Doctor Ngcobo Independent Newspapers
The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has reiterated that it does not permit walk-in applications for the 2025 academic year.
The institution has emphasised that its application deadline closed on 30 September 2024, and only those who applied through the Central Applications Office (CAO) will be considered for any remaining spaces.
The institution clarified that should there be any available spaces, priority will be given to CAO applicants.
The university was commenting after dozens of prospective students queued outside the institution’s Steve Biko campus on Monday hoping to apply for courses. However, they were informed that no walk-ins were being accepted.
Applicants exploring late admissions or change-of-mind options are urged to contact the CAO directly via www.cao.ac.za or through their helpline at (031) 268 4444.
DUT has also implemented strict campus access regulations to manage resources effectively.
Only returning students and those who have received firm offers or admission letters will be allowed on campus, and even these visits are limited to those experiencing challenges with off-campus online registration.
“We kindly request parents and applicants without a firm offer or admission letter to refrain from visiting the campus,” DUT said.
The university has also urged waitlisted and regretted applicants not to visit its campuses, emphasising that waitlisted individuals will be contacted if spaces become available.
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) has encouraged unsuccessful applicants to register with the Central Application Clearing House (CACH) for potential placement opportunities within the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) system.
However, DUT stressed that the CACH service does not guarantee placement, as demand for spaces at institutions remains high.