CAO online application process, dates, and requirements
The Central Applications Office (CAO) is mandated to process student admissions for higher education programmes. The CAO online application process provides all learners with a central, fair arena for securing admission to a certificate, diploma, or undergraduate course. There are specific requirements that must be met for successful admissions.
Source: UGC
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Key takeaways
- CAO online application process, dates, & requirements
- CAO levels of study options
- How to apply through CAO for 2026?
- Application using the CAO mobile app
- Application using hardcopy forms
- When is the CAO application 2026 opening date?
- How much is the CAO application now?
- CAO application status check
- How to do a CAO re-application
- How do you upload documents to CAO online?
- CAO application rules for international students
- What does the CAO do?
- Can you apply to DUT without using CAO?
- Is MUT open for 2027 applications?
- How do you edit your CAO application online?
- How do you cancel your CAO application online?
- What are common CAO mistakes?
- Which applications are still open for 2026?
Key takeaways
- The Central Applications Office (CAO) streamlines applications for universities and colleges.
- The online application process is straightforward and streamlined for all.
- CAO simplifies applications to institutions in South Africa (KwaZulu-Natal) and Ireland.
CAO online application process, dates, & requirements
Through the CAO online application process, prospective students can secure placement in an institution of higher learning in South Africa (KwaZulu-Natal). Read on to learn more about how to complete the CAO online application process.
CAO levels of study options
The available study levels are listed below.
- Shorter course study
- NC(V) study
- Certificate
- Nated Certificate & Diploma study
- Diploma study
- Degree study
- B Tech/M Tech study (For people with a diploma or a degree)
How to apply through CAO for 2026?
To submit your CAO online application in 2026 to login, you must have access to the internet. You must also identify and choose the relevant courses based on your educational background before starting the process. The steps below guide you through this.
- Visit the official CAO website.
- Select the Apply icon on the dashboard.
- Read the information that pops up and click Continue with Application.
- Enter your ID or passport number, then click Submit. Note that the CAO login with your ID number is the only option available for first-time users. Repeat applicants will need their CAO number to access their accounts.
- Scroll down on the page that pops up. At the bottom, click Continue with Application.
- Proceed to enter the required details. Ensure you provide a valid, active email address. In addition, ensure that the information you provide is accurate before clicking Next.
- Click Continue with Online Application.
- A window will pop up with your CAO number, password, and EasyPay number. Read all the instructions and note the numbers given, as you will need them to access your account. Then, click Continue with Online Application.
- Follow the instructions that appear and enter ALL required information. Click Next.
- Enter your Next of Kin details, then click Next.
- Enter details of the institution you attended, then click Search. The school name will appear in a box.
- Next, enter the year you joined and graduated from the school, then click Next.
- Click Process My Application. A message showing your details have been submitted successfully will pop up.
- Finally, upload your supporting documents and pay the administration fee.
Source: UGC
Application using the CAO mobile app
Did you know you can complete the process via a mobile app? The app is compatible with Android and iOS devices. Follow the steps below to use the app.
- On your phone, go to the App Store or Apple Store app.
- Search for the Central Applications Office and install the app.
- Open the app and click Apply. Continue with the steps as the app prompts you. The steps are similar to those documented above (applying via the website). Keep your CAO online application login details safe, as you will need them every time you wish to use the app.
NB: Note that you must upload your supporting documents via the website.
Application using hardcopy forms
You can also submit your details via hardcopy forms. However, you should know that this is the least effective method. To do this, visit your principal's office or LO teacher and request the CAO Handbooks and Application Forms.
If your school does not have the forms, you can get them from the DBE offices or select libraries. If you do not get them, use the following contacts to get copies:
- Phone: 031 268 4444/ 086 086 0226
- Email address: formrequestcao@cao.ac.za
- Physical Address: Gate 11, Mary Thiphe Street, Cato Manor (Visit the office and request the forms)
Once you get the forms, fill in the necessary details and attach the supporting documents. Then, send them back to Private Bag X06, Dalbridge, 4014.
Alternatively, hand-deliver them to the CAO offices in Durban. Office hours are 08:00 am to 16:30, Monday to Friday.
When is the CAO application 2026 opening date?
Yes, CAO applications for 2026 are currently open for the January and February intake. Digital walk-in applications are also available for private colleges.
How much is the CAO application now?
The CAO application fee is R250 per applicant for every South African citizen. International citizens are required to pay R300. This administration fee is non-refundable.
You can remit the non-refundable administration fee online using your credit card. To do this, follow the steps below.
- Visit the CAO website.
- Log in to your account.
- Click My Application, enter your CAO or ID number, and follow the prompts.
Alternative payment methods
EasyPay is the preferred payment method. You can make the payment at Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Checkers, Woolworths, or any store with the EasyPay sign.
CAO application status check
To check the status of your application, visit the CAO website and log in to your account. The information you need will be contained therein.
It is advisable to check your email often, as you may receive relevant updates from the organisation or institution through the email address provided.
How to do a CAO re-application
Reapplication is permitted for people who have made unsuccessful applications in previous years. You will be required to restart the process.
This means you should confirm your eligibility by reviewing the requirements for each course before submitting your admission request. In addition, you will receive a new account and registration number, so you should ignore the details used for special applications.
How do you upload documents to CAO online?
You can upload the supporting documents for your CAO online application by visiting the official website and logging into your account.
Once you are logged in, check the top navigation bar for the option to upload your documents. Then, attach the documents you wish.
Source: UGC
CAO application rules for international students
International students can make CAO applications. The following rules apply to these students.
- Students will require a study permit to travel to South Africa to study.
- Students applying for distance learning do not need a study permit because they will pursue the programmes in their home countries.
- Students applying for short-term study should apply directly to the institution. Those applying to UKZN only should also apply directly to the institution. However, they should submit a CAO application for all other institutions of higher learning.
- Students must meet the South African degree entry requirements. GCE students should have at least five passes, including two at A level, while HIGCSE/ IGCSE students should have passed at least five subjects, four of which must be at the HIGCSE level.
NB: Those wishing to join degree programmes must have passes in English and one other language. They must also have passed maths.
What does the CAO do?
The Central Applications Office streamlines applications for universities and colleges in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, and select private institutions.
Can you apply to DUT without using CAO?
All undergraduate applications to the Durban University of Technology (DUT) must go through CAO. However, post-graduate applicants do not have to go through the CAO.
Is MUT open for 2027 applications?
Applications for the 2027 academic year at Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) are not yet open. Prospective students should check the MUT website for official announcements.
How do you edit your CAO application online?
If you change your mind about your application, visit the CAO website and log in to your account. Look for the Change of Mind icon and follow the instructions given. A non-refundable Change of Mind (COM) fee may be required.
How do you cancel your CAO application online?
If you wish to cancel your CAO application online, use the Change of Mind (COM) option explored above.
What are common CAO mistakes?
Common CAO mistakes include submitting applications late, entering incorrect personal details, ignoring course requirements, and listing courses in the wrong order of preference. Applicants also often miss additional steps, such as interviews or portfolios, and fail to monitor CAO communications, which can affect their admission chances.
Which applications are still open for 2026?
For 2026, most standard CAO applications are closed, but digital walk-in and late applications are still open for some institutions, including Mangosuthu University of Technology, University of Zululand, and selected private colleges, usually until late February 2026.
The CAO online application process is pretty simple for South African citizens, residents, and international students. The website accepts applications for admission to higher learning institutions, so hurry up and apply before the process closes.
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Source: Briefly News
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