The primary goal of the Disability Unit (DU) is to facilitate equitable access to higher education for students with disabilities. We strive to create an enabling, inclusive environment that empowers all students to achieve their full academic potential.
Recognising the stigma that can sometimes be attached to disability, the DU actively runs awareness campaigns to educate the broader university community. A major milestone in this commitment was the official opening of the dedicated DU space on the Bloemfontein campus on 19 May 2022. The assistive devices and specialised technology housed in our Disability Lab stand as a testament to the University’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity.
Office Hours and Locations
Administration Offices
Monday to Friday: 08:00 – 16:30
Disability Lab
Located in the Student Support Centre.
Open daily: 08:00 – 20:00.
Note: Laboratories may be closed at certain times during the examination period when students are writing exams within the DU.
Guide for Prospective Students
If you are a person with a disability planning to study at CUT, this section answers the most common questions about our services and the registration process. The DU has two administrative offices and one computer lab to assist you. To begin, you must complete the regular electronic application form, clearly indicate the assistance you require, and write the National Benchmark Tests (NBT).
Steps for Applying at CUT
- Check Minimum Requirements: Verify that you qualify for your chosen course. This is a critical first step; please do not skip it.
- Consult the DU Early: Approach the Disability Unit first for assistance with your application documentation so we are aware of your needs from the start.
- Academic Advising: If you do not currently meet the minimum requirements, the DU can advise you on alternative pathways to improve your academic rating.
- Request Accommodation: You must indicate on your application if you require student accommodation. Early notification is vital so that reasonable physical accommodations can be arranged to make your CUT experience as seamless as possible.
Registering and Applying for Financial Aid
Once your application is processed and you are accepted as a CUT student with a disability, and if you intend to apply for an NSFAS bursary, you must complete the following steps:
- Print the NSFAS Disability Annexure A questionnaire for your doctor to complete.
- Gather the required documents (see checklist below) and bring them to the DU.
Required Document Checklist
- Certified copies of your ID
- Certified copies of your parents' or guardians' IDs
- Copies of any previous exam concessions (e.g., extra time, scribe, etc.)
- The completed and stamped Doctor’s questionnaire detailing your condition
- A Medical Certificate explicitly indicating the required academic concessions
Following the submission of these documents, the Head of the Unit, Mr Manyarela, will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your needs to determine how the DU can best assist you academically.
Campus Life and Accessibility
Student Residences
To assist you with reasonable accommodation in student housing, you must indicate your need for a residence very early in the application process. Space is limited, and early notification allows us to plan effectively for your specific requirements.
Welcome and Orientation
The DU hosts a dedicated welcome and orientation session for all first-year students on all campuses during the week before the term starts. Attendance is highly encouraged. We will provide a guided campus tour, showing you your classrooms, the Medical Clinic, the Library, and other essential landmarks.
Navigating Our Campuses
CUT campuses are large, with numerous administrative and teaching buildings. We are committed to ensuring these facilities are accessible via designated parking bays, paved pathways, ramps, stairs, and lifts.
For your safety, street-calming measures are in place, including pedestrian crossings, speed humps, and strictly enforced posted speed limits. Most buildings feature universally accessible lifts and stairways, and wheelchair ramps are available at the majority of building entrances.
Academic and Support Services
The DU provides comprehensive academic support, facilitating accommodations in collaborative partnership with your lecturers, departments, and faculties.
Special Tests and Exams
Special arrangements, such as additional time or the use of a scribe, can be made for students who require them. The DU works closely with Assessment and Graduation to facilitate these arrangements seamlessly.
Specialised Study Materials
If you require formatted study materials, please visit Room 130 at the Student Academic Support Centre to discuss your specific needs.
Explore our full Disability Support Services catalogue →Assignment Writing Support
If you need advice on structuring assignments or are unsure how to begin, please contact Mr W Louw for dedicated assistance at +27 (0)51 507 3978.
Academic Tutoring
For subject-specific academic support and tutoring, please contact the relevant lecturers or academic support coordinators within your specific faculty.
Library Access
If you require assistance with accessing library resources, databases, or physical books, your faculty librarian is readily available and eager to help you.
