How To Apply For CAO Programmes For 2027
If you’re preparing to apply to universities in South Africa for the 2027 academic year through the Central Applications Office (CAO), this guide covers everything you need to understand — including the application process, required documents, and administration fees.
Through the CAO system, you can apply to as many as six programmes at participating institutions using a single application and paying just one administration fee.
What Is the CAO?
The Central Applications Office is the official body that processes undergraduate applications for the following public universities in KwaZulu-Natal:
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- University of Zululand (UNIZULU)
It also processes applications for several private colleges, including:
- STADIO
- MANCOSA
- Eduvos
- Regent Business School
- Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology
You do not need to apply separately to each institution.
When Do CAO 2027 Applications Open?
For the January 2027 intake, applications open on 1 March 2026.
The on-time administration fee deadline is 31 October 2026. A late fee applies from 1 November 2026.
For the July 2027 intake, the on-time fee deadline is 31 May 2027, and the late fee applies from 1 June 2027.
Applying early is strongly recommended because institutions begin making offers before final results are released.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for CAO Programmes in 2027
Step 1: Prepare Before You Apply
If you are currently in Grade 12, you will need:
- Your ID number or passport number
- Final Grade 11 results
- Grade 12 June results (when available)
- Grade 12 Trial/September results (when available)
If you have already completed matric, you will need:
- Your ID number
- Your final NSC results
Step 2: Apply Online
The only way to apply is online.
- Visit www.cao.ac.za
- Click on “Apply”
- Enter your ID or passport number
- Complete all required information
- Select up to six programme choices
- Submit your application
After submitting, you will receive:
- A CAO number
- A password
- An EasyPay number
Keep these details safe because you will need them to track your application and make payments.
CAO 2027 Administration Fees
For the January 2027 intake:
If your administration fee reaches the CAO on or before 31 October 2026, South African citizens pay R250, and international applicants pay R300.
If the administration fee reaches the CAO on or after 1 November 2026, the late fee applies. South African citizens will pay R470, and international applicants will pay R580.
For the July 2027 intake:
If payment reaches the CAO on or before 31 May 2027, South African citizens pay R250, and international applicants pay R300.
If payment is received on or after 1 June 2027, the late fee applies. South African citizens pay R470, and international applicants pay R580.
The administration fee is non-refundable.
You can pay:
- Online via card payment on the CAO website
- At EasyPay outlets such as Shoprite, Pick n Pay, or Boxer
- At the CAO office (card only — no cash accepted)
Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents
All supporting documents must be uploaded online. The CAO does not accept hard copies or emailed documents.
Minimum required documents include:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Final Grade 11 report (if in Grade 12)
- Highest qualification achieved (if already matriculated)
- Proof of payment
- Study permit (if you are an international applicant)
Make sure all documents are clear and readable. Illegible documents may delay your application.
Step 4: Track Your Application
Once your application is submitted, your fee is paid, and your documents are uploaded, your application becomes valid.
You will receive an acknowledgement letter by email within about two weeks. Always check that your details are correct.
Remember: the CAO processes applications, but institutions such as the University of KwaZulu-Natal or Durban University of Technology make the final admission decisions.
Can I Change My Programme Choices?
Yes. You can submit a Change of Mind (COM) request online if you want to:
- Add new programmes
- Remove programmes
- Rearrange the order of your choices
- Extend your application to the next intake
The Change of Mind fee is R140 per submission.
Financial Aid
If you require funding, you must indicate this when applying and also apply directly to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
Applying for CAO does not automatically mean you have applied for funding.
Final Advice for 2027 Applicants
If you are planning to study at DUT, MUT, UKZN, UNIZULU, or participating private colleges in 2027:
- Apply as soon as applications open on 1 March 2026
- Pay your administration fee early
- Upload your documents immediately
- Monitor your email and SMS notifications
Applying early increases your chances of securing a place in competitive programmes.