CAO Has Officially Opened Applications for 2027 Admission!
The wait is over! The Central Applications Office (CAO) has officially opened applications for the 2027 academic year, giving prospective students the opportunity to secure their place at participating higher education institutions across South Africa.
If you’re planning to study in 2027, now is the time to take action and submit your application.
When Do 2027 CAO Applications Open?
Applications for 2027 entry officially open on 1 March 2026.
From this date, students can begin submitting their online applications through the official CAO website: www.cao.ac.za.
In addition, the 2027 Entry Handbook will also be available online from 1 March 2026, providing detailed guidance on institutions, programmes, admission requirements, and important deadlines.
What Is the CAO?
The Central Applications Office (CAO) is the centralized application service that processes applications for multiple universities and colleges in South Africa. Instead of applying to each institution separately, students can submit one application through CAO and select multiple programme choices.
This system simplifies the admission process and ensures your application is efficiently distributed to your chosen institutions.
How to Apply for 2027 Admission
Applying through CAO is simple and fully online. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
- Go to www.cao.ac.za and click on the “Apply” tab.
Step 2: Enter Your ID or Passport Number
- Submit your ID or passport number to begin your application.
Step 3: Complete Your Details
- Fill in all the required personal and academic information carefully. Click “Next” to proceed.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
- Once everything is completed, click “Process My Application” to officially submit.
Step 5: Pay the Administration Fee
You can pay:
- Online using Visa or Mastercard (Debit/Credit card)
- At any EasyPay outlet such as Shoprite, Checkers, or Pick n Pay
Note: Your application will only be processed once payment has been confirmed.
Step 6: Upload Required Documents
- After submission, upload all necessary supporting documents via the “Upload My Documents” section on the homepage.
How to Submit a Change of Mind (COM)
Changed your mind about your programme choices? CAO allows you to update them online.
Follow the steps below:
- Click the “Change of Mind” icon on the homepage.
- Log in using your details.
- Select your new programme choices and rank them in order of preference.
- Make the required payment online or at an EasyPay outlet.
- Submit your updated choices.
Ways to Make Payment
To pay your CAO administration fee:
- Go to www.cao.ac.za
- Click the “Payments” tab.
- Enter your CAO number and select “Make Payment.”
Payment options include:
- Online card payments (Visa/Mastercard)
- EasyPay outlets using your unique EasyPay number
Uploading Supporting Documents
To upload documents:
- Click “Upload My Documents” on the homepage.
- Log in with your CAO number or ID.
- Follow the onscreen instructions to submit your documents.
Read Also: 2027 CAO Handbook is Now Available
How to Track Your CAO Application Status
You can monitor your application progress by:
- Clicking “Check My Application” on the homepage.
- Entering your CAO number or ID/Passport number.
- Alternatively, contacting the CAO Call Centre.
Updating Your Personal Details
Need to update your contact details or personal information?
- Go to www.cao.ac.za
- Click “Update My Details”
- Log in with your CAO number or ID/Passport number and password
- Select the information you want to update
- Click “Process My Updates”
Once submitted, your updated information becomes immediately available to institutions.
CAO Contact Information
If you need assistance with your 2027 CAO application, you can contact the CAO directly:
- Call Centre: 031 268 4444
- Operating Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 08:00am – 04:30pm
- Friday: 08:00am – 02:00pm
- Website: www.cao.ac.za
- Facebook: /centralapplicationsoffice
- TikTok: @cao_031_
Why You Should Apply Early
Applying early for the 2027 academic year ensures:
- More time to correct mistakes
- Early placement consideration
- Less stress closer to deadlines
- Better preparation for registration
With applications now officially open, prospective students are encouraged to start their journey toward higher education today.
Final Thoughts
The opening of CAO 2027 applications marks an important milestone for learners planning their academic future. With a streamlined online system, multiple programme options, and accessible payment methods, applying has never been easier.
Visit www.cao.ac.za from 1 March 2026 and take the first step toward securing your place for the 2027 academic year.
Your future starts now!