CAO 2027 Prospectus and Handbook – Download Now!
If you are planning to study in 2027, the CAO 2027 Prospectus and Handbook is your most important guide. Published by the Central Applications Office (CAO), this handbook contains everything you need to apply successfully to universities and private colleges in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).
From programme lists and entry requirements to application steps and fees, the CAO Handbook helps you make informed decisions about your academic future.
What Is the CAO 2027 Prospectus and Handbook?
The CAO Handbook is the official annual guide for undergraduate applicants applying through the Central Applications Office. It includes:
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General information about the CAO
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Important application dates
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Step-by-step application instructions
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Administration fee details
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Programme choice lists
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Minimum entry requirements
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Points calculation guidelines
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Access route information
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Contact details for institutions
Take Note: It is not sold commercially and is available through schools, institutions, and the CAO website.
Which Institutions Are Included in the CAO 2027 Handbook?
The CAO processes applications for public universities and selected private colleges in KZN.
Public Universities
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Durban University of Technology (DUT)
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Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
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University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
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University of Zululand (UNIZULU)
Private Colleges
The handbook also lists programmes from institutions such as:
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STADIO
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MANCOSA
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Eduvos
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Regent Business School
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Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology
With one CAO application, you can apply to up to six programmes across these institutions.
CAO 2027 Application Opening and Closing Dates
For the January 2027 intake:
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Applications open on 1 March 2026
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On-time administration fee deadline is 31 October 2026
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Late fee applies from 1 November 2026
For the July 2027 intake:
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On-time administration fee deadline is 31 May 2027
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Late fee applies from 1 June 2027
What You Will Find Inside the CAO 2027 Handbook
1. How to Apply
The handbook explains that the only way to apply is online at www.cao.ac.za.
It provides detailed instructions on:
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Creating your application
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Selecting programme choices
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Receiving your CAO number
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Paying the administration fee
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Uploading supporting documents
2. Supporting Documents
Minimum documents required include:
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Certified copy of your ID or passport
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Final Grade 11 results (if in Grade 12)
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Final NSC results (if already matriculated)
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Academic record (if previously studied at another institution)
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Study permit (for international applicants)
3. Administration Fees for 2027
For the January 2027 entry, South African applicants pay R250 if payment reaches the CAO on or before 31 October 2026. If payment is received from 1 November 2026, the late fee of R470 applies.
International applicants pay R300 before the deadline and R580 after the late deadline.
For the July 2027 entry, the same fee structure applies, with the on-time deadline being 31 May 2027 and the late fee starting from 1 June 2027.
Important: Administration fees are non-refundable.
4. Programme Choice List
The CAO 2027 Handbook contains a comprehensive Programme Choice List that includes:
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Degree programmes
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Diploma programmes
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Higher Certificate programmes
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Alternative Access Routes
Each programme listing shows:
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Programme code
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Closing date
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Minimum points required
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Subject requirements
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Entry term
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Course duration
Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance, as institutions may receive more applications than available spaces.
5. Points Calculation Tables
The handbook explains how to calculate APS points using your top six subjects (excluding Life Orientation).
Different institutions may use different variations of the points system, especially for competitive programmes like Health Sciences or Engineering.
6. Change of Mind (COM) Process
If you want to:
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Change programme choices
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Rearrange the ranking
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Extend your application to the next intake
You can submit a Change of Mind request online. A COM administration fee applies per submission.
Why the CAO 2027 Handbook Is Important
The CAO Handbook helps you:
- Understand entry requirements
- Compare institutions and campuses
- Avoid missing closing dates
- Prepare the correct documents
- Budget for application fees
- Make informed career decisions
Note: It is the official source of information for undergraduate admissions through CAO.
Financial Aid Information
If you require funding, you must indicate this on your CAO application and also apply directly to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
Applying through CAO does not automatically mean you have applied for financial aid.
Final Thoughts on the CAO 2027 Prospectus and Handbook
The CAO 2027 Prospectus and Handbook is your complete roadmap to applying for university in KwaZulu-Natal.
If you are targeting DUT, MUT, UKZN, UNIZULU, or participating private colleges, download and review the handbook early. Applications open on 1 March 2026, and early submission increases your chances of securing a place in competitive programmes.