When planning to study at CUT in 2026, understanding the tuition and fee structure is crucial. Knowing the costs in advance helps you budget effectively, avoid delays, and prepare for payment deadlines.
What Tuition Means at CUT
Tuition at CUT covers the core academic charges for your chosen programme. This typically includes:
Lectures and tutorials
Laboratory and practical session access
Library and online learning resources
Administrative academic support
It’s important to note that tuition fees vary by programme, faculty, and student category (South African, SADC, or international students).
CUT Tuition Structure for 2026
Yearly vs. Semester Payment
Full-year students generally have the option to pay tuition in monthly instalments, spreading the cost throughout the academic year.
Semester-based students may pay tuition per semester, with instalments set according to the university’s payment schedule.
Timely payment is important to avoid registration blocks or exam restrictions.
Fees Vary by Programme and Student Category
Undergraduate programmes usually have lower tuition compared to postgraduate programmes.
International students typically pay higher fees than South African or SADC students.
Certain faculties, such as Engineering, Health Sciences, and IT, may have higher tuition fees due to additional laboratory, equipment, or practical costs.
Additional Costs & Considerations
Other Levies
In addition to tuition, students may need to budget for:
Application fees (non-refundable)
Acceptance deposits (for some programmes)
Accommodation or residence fees
Special programme materials (e.g., lab kits, software licenses)
Late registration or overdue payment penalties
Payment Options
CUT allows students to pay in full or via instalments, depending on the programme.
Students may arrange payment agreements if they cannot pay the full amount upfront.
Financial Planning
Budget for tuition and additional fees to avoid financial stress.
Make sure previous year balances are cleared to prevent registration blocks.
Explore bursaries, scholarships, and financial aid options offered by CUT or external sponsors.
Sample Tuition Estimates
Tuition varies widely depending on the programme and student type.
Undergraduate programmes may range from relatively low fees to higher fees for specialized faculties.
Postgraduate programmes or advanced diplomas often cost more due to specialized training, materials, and resources.
Always plan for extra costs like accommodation, books, and lab fees.
Tips for Managing CUT Tuition 2026
Check your programme’s exact tuition fee before enrolling.
Plan for instalment payments if you cannot pay in full upfront.
Include additional costs in your budget (accommodation, study materials, labs).
Keep track of deadlines to avoid penalties or registration issues.
Consider bursaries or financial aid to reduce your tuition burden.
Conditions of payment
The following conditions of payment apply:
- Year students: Monthly installments of equal payments over nine months. Due date for full balance payable is end of October annually.
- Semester students for semester 1:Â Monthly installments of equal payments over four months. Due date for full balance payable is end of May annually.
- Semester students for semester 2:Â Monthly installment of equal payments over four months. Due date for full balance payable is end of October annually.
Should you require a payment agreement, complete the Acknowledgement of Debt Form (PDF) | 17 January 2025
Refunds
Application fee: No refund applies with respect to the application fee.
Accommodation deposit: A deposit made in respect of accommodation fees shall be refunded in the following instances:
- If no accommodation is available.
- If the applicant is not selected.
A student may only register for an assessment (examination) if all the fees for that particular year of study have been paid in full. In cases where it is subsequently discovered that a student is in arrears in respect of payments, the assessment results shall be withheld.
In cases where a student has not paid the full account in respect of a previous year, said student shall not be permitted to reregister before the account in question has been settled in full.
Discount on tuition fees
In cases where two or more students from the same family household are simultaneously registered at CUT, the following discounts apply:
- Second student: 15 %;
- Third and fourth students: 25 %
Discount on payment in cash or by bank-guaranteed cheque:Â A discount of ten percent (10 %) is granted in the event of all tuition fees being paid in full, in cash or by bank-guaranteed cheque, upon registration. Accounts may also be settled by credit card, but without a cash discount being applicable.
Residence accommodation fees
No cancellation credits shall be payable, irrespective of the point in time at which the student vacates the residence. (One night spent in the residence is regarded as equivalent to the student having resided in the residence for the entire month.) For details go to Campus Accommodation.
Payments by employers
In cases where an employer has already indicated that he/she will accept responsibility for the full payment of tuition and/or accommodation fees, the student must include the letter in which notification to that effect is provided with the registration documents. This letter must give an indication of the date(s) on which such payment(s) will be made.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can tuition fees change after enrolling?
A: Yes, fees are determined annually and may change. Always verify before payment.
Q: Are foreign students charged more?
A: Yes, non-SADC students typically pay higher fees than local or SADC students.
Q: What happens if I can’t pay on time?
A: Non-payment can block registration or exam access. Payment agreements may be arranged with the university.
Q: Are there discounts for early or full payments?
A: Some arrangements may be available, but generally, fees are payable according to the university’s schedule.