What You Need to Know About Mangosuthu University of Technology
MUT is one of only six universities of technology in South Africa, and it's proudly township-based in Umlazi, Durban. Founder Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi opened the doors in 1979 with just fifteen students, on a promise to transform the lives of the disenfranchised. That mission still shapes how the university runs today.
You'll find three faculties here: Engineering, Management Sciences, and Applied and Health Sciences. Around 13,000 to 14,500 students study at MUT each year. This is a university built around practical, hands-on qualifications that lead straight into industry.
What APS Do You Need?
MUT uses its own points system. It only counts your best five subjects, so Life Orientation doesn't factor in at all. Score 90% or higher in a subject and you get the full 8 points, with a maximum possible score of 40 points.
The general minimum across MUT is 25 points, but it's not just about hitting that number. Engineering wants 50% in English, Maths, and Physical Science, and Maths Lit won't get you in. Management Sciences programs like Accounting want 50% in English, Maths, and Accounting at 25 points. Applied and Health Sciences ask for 25 points with 50% in English, Maths, and either Physical Science, Agricultural Science, or Life Sciences.
Meeting the minimum doesn't guarantee you a spot. Some departments run their own entrance tests or extra screening on top of your APS. MUT also gives preference to applicants who choose MUT as their first or second choice.
Fees and Funding
Tuition at MUT runs between R4,530 and R15,350 per semester, depending on your course and subjects. That's one of the more affordable options among SA's universities of technology. NSFAS funds eligible students at MUT, covering tuition, accommodation, and a living allowance for those who qualify.
MUT also lists scholarships on its site if you don't qualify for NSFAS. Money stress is real, so it's worth applying for NSFAS the same time you apply through CAO. Check the official MUT page for exact fee details per programme.
Life on Campus
About 90% of MUT students live on-campus or in one of 43 outsourced residences, including dedicated housing for international students. Res fees run between R4,120 and R11,150 per semester, depending on the room. Umlazi has good taxi and bus routes, so commuting in is manageable if you don't get a res spot.
MUT has student support services, campus health facilities, and societies to join if you want to build a network. Not sure if your marks are enough? Use our free APS calculator to check where you stand.
