CAO 2027 Application Window is Open – Apply Now!
CAO 2027 Application Window is Open – Apply Now!
The Central Applications Office (CAO), which is responsible for accepting and processing applications on behalf of its partner institutions, is now accepting applications for the 2027 academic year, starting 1 March 2026, for Diploma, Higher Certificate, and Bachelor’s degree programmes.
If you are planning to study in South Africa, the CAO is a recommended application route. Through a single CAO application, you may apply to up to six different universities or institutions. All you need to do is follow the guidelines outlined in this article to complete your application form, upload the required supporting documents, and pay the non-refundable application fee.
What is the Central Application Office (CAO)?
The Central Application Office (CAO), a university application service, allows you to apply for undergraduate programs at UKZN, DUT, MUT, and UNIZULU via a single online application form. This portal will collect and process your applications before forwarding them to the relevant.
With CAO, you can apply to multiple universities and choose up to six different courses. The Central Application Office (CAO) offers you a wide range of options, ensuring you have plenty of choices for your academic future.
When to Apply Via CAO for 2027
The CAO 2027 application window officially opened on March 1, 2026, and will remain open until October 31, 2026. Applications submitted on or before the deadline will incur the standard application fee. However, any applications submitted from November 1, 2026, will be considered late and will be subject to a late application fee penalty.
Important CAO 2027 Application Dates:
- Opening Date: March 1, 2026
- Application Deadline: October 31, 2026
If you intend to study competitive courses such as Medicine or Law, it is essential to apply early, as these programs often close by June 30 in most universities.
Late applications will be accepted starting November 1, 2026, but will incur a 100% increase in the administration fee. Why pay more when you can apply early, save money, and still secure your place at your dream university?
Why Should You Apply Through CAO?
Universities such as the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban University of Technology, University of Zululand, and Mangosuthu University of Technology have their applications processed through the CAO platform. Direct applications to these universities will not be accepted and will not be processed. To ensure your application is considered, you must apply through the Central Application Office (CAO)
How to Apply Through CAO
Follow the guidelines below to complete your CAO 2027 applications
Visit the Official CAO Website:
- Go to cao.ac.za
- Ensure your internet connection is strong
- Use a compatible browser
- Find out the available courses
- Ensure you satisfy all the requirements
Create Your Account:
- Click on the “Apply” button to begin your application.
- Choose your country from the list.
- Enter your ID number.
- Click “Register” to complete your registration.
Create Your Profile:
- Enter your Surnames and First name.
- Enter your email address and cell phone number.
- Input your residential address.
- Enter the address, names, and contact details of your next-of-kin.
Select Your Courses and Institutions:
- Select the universities you want to apply to
- Select up to six different courses
- Make sure you satisfy the academic requirements of the courses
Submit Your Documents:
- Ensure all your documents are scanned clearly and are legible.
- Upload certified copies of the following documents:
- Your ID number.
- Your Final Grade 11 Results.
- Your Grade 12 June and/or Trial Results.
- Your National Senior Certificate.
CAO Application Fee and Payment Method:
On-time Application Fees:
- Domestic students: R250
- International students: R300
Please be advised that applications received without proof of payment will be considered invalid. Ensure you complete the payment to avoid any delays in processing your application.
- Online Payment: You can make the payment online using a VISA, debit, or credit card.
- EasyPay outlet: Pay at any EasyPay outlet, including Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Checkers, Boxer Supermarkets, or Woolworths.
- Ensure you have your CAO number with you when making the payment.
- Retain the original receipt and upload a scanned copy of it as proof of payment.
Confirmation:
- Check your email for a confirmation message regarding your application.
- If you don’t see it in your inbox, be sure to check your Spam folder.
- You can then track the progress of your application using your unique CAO identifier.
Contact Information for CAO
For any questions or concerns, you can contact CAO using the following:
- Phone Number: +353-(0)91-509800
- Address: Tower House, Eglinton Street, Galway, H91 X25V, Ireland
- Website: www.cao.ac.za
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