CAO Online Application In South Africa

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Central Applications Office (CAO) Online Application – South Africa

The Central Applications Office (CAO) is a centralized system used by multiple universities and colleges in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) for undergraduate applications. Instead of applying to each institution separately, you can apply to multiple institutions in one place using CAO.

1. How to Apply Online via CAO

Follow these simple steps to apply via CAO:

Step 1: Visit the CAO Website

Go to www.cao.ac.za

Step 2: Register an Account

Click on “Apply” and select “New Application”
Enter your ID number/passport number
Create a password and complete your personal details

Step 3: Choose Your Programs

Search for courses using the Programme Choice List
Select up to six program choices from different institutions

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

You’ll need to upload:
✔ Certified copy of your ID or passport
✔ Final Grade 11 and latest Grade 12 results
✔ Additional documents (if required for specific courses)

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

Standard fee: R250 (SA applicants)
Late applications: R470
Payment can be made via EFT, online banking, or direct deposit

Step 6: Submit Your Application

Review your application and submit it online
You’ll get a CAO reference number—keep this safe!

2. Institutions Using CAO

CAO is used by many KZN-based universities and colleges, including:
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
Durban University of Technology (DUT)
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
University of Zululand (UNIZULU)
Various TVET Colleges in KZN

3. How to Check Your CAO Application Status

Visit CAO Status Check
Enter your CAO reference number, ID number, or passport number
Your status will show if you are accepted, pending, or declined

4. Important CAO Deadlines

Early Applications Close: 30 June 2025 (for 2026 intake)
Final Closing Date: 31 October 2025
Late Applications: Accepted until January 2026 (if space is available)

5. Tips for a Successful CAO Application

✔ Apply early to increase your chances of acceptance
✔ Double-check your program choices – some courses have limited space
✔ Make sure your documents are certified before uploading
✔ Track your application status regularly

Where To Obtain A CAO Form

CAO website click on link www.cao.ac.za to download OR
Contact the CAO on 031 268 4444 OR
Apply on line: consult www.cao.ac.za OR
Write to enquiries@ukzn.ac.za OR

Documentation Required

• Grade 12 learners must submit certified copies of their Grade 11 results (plus any available Grade 12 results) and their ID documents with the applications.
• Applicant wishing to transfer from other Universities must submit certified copies of their National Senior Certificates/Senior certificates as well as complete academic transcripts from their previous/current Universities with their applications.

• Semester 1 (January intake)
• Medicine: 30 June : No late applications are accepted.
• All other programmes: 30 September.

How To Apply through Central Applications Office CAO

CAO Notice of Programme Change

CAO Important Notice

Central Application Office CAO Compliance Documents

Central Application Office CAO Late Application

Central Application Office CAO Admin Fee Structure

Central Application Office CAO Handbook

CAO Available Programmes

How to Update My Details On CAO

CAO Change of Mind

How to Upload My Documents On CAO