CAO 2027 Applications Now Open – Dates, Fees & How to Apply
The 2027 application form for the Central Applications Office (CAO) is officially open. Prospective students who want early admission into reputable universities in KwaZulu-Natal are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Both South African and international students can submit their applications through the CAO portal.
What is CAO?
The Central Applications Office (CAO) is a third-party application platform that serves as a bridge between selected universities in South Africa and prospective students. Its role is to receive applications, process them according to institutional requirements, and forward qualified applicants to the respective universities for final admission decisions.
Simply put, CAO acts as a central application system for institutions in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
When to Apply for CAO 2027
The CAO 2027 application cycle opens on 1 March 2026. Applicants are advised to apply early to avoid missing deadlines.
- Opening Date: 1 March 2026
- Standard Closing Date: 31 October 2026
- Late Application Period: November 2026 – January 2027 (tentative, space-dependent and subject to higher fees)
Late applications will only be considered for programmes with available spaces and will attract an increased application fee.
Who Can Apply via the CAO Portal?
The CAO application portal is open to:
- Applicants starting a new undergraduate qualification
- Applicants applying for postgraduate studies
- Students who wish to change qualifications or institutions
Notice:
- If you plan to study in KwaZulu-Natal Province, applying through CAO is required for participating institutions.
CAO Partnering Institutions
The Central Applications Office processes applications for the following institutions:
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
- University of Zululand (UniZulu)
- Selected private higher education institutions
- TVET Colleges in KwaZulu-Natal
Note: If you intend to study at any of the above institutions, you must apply through the CAO.
CAO 2027 Application Fees
CAO application fees depend on when you submit your application. Payments must be made to CAO, not directly to the institution.
Standard Application Fee
- South African applicants: R280
- International applicants: R300
Late Application Fee (from 1 November)
- South African applicants: R470
- International applicants: R580
Important: Payments can be made online during the application process or at EasyPay outlets.
Read Also: CAO Handbook Download PDF 2027 Download
Documents Required for CAO Application
Prepare the following documents before applying:
- Certified copy of your South African ID or passport (and/or birth certificate)
- Latest academic results (Grade 11 or Grade 12 results)
- Study permit or proof of residence (for international applicants)
- Proof of payment of the application fee
- A valid cellphone number and email address
How to Apply for CAO 2027
Applications can be submitted either online or manually.
To apply online:
Visit the official CAO website.
- Open the CAO homepage using a secure internet connection.
Click on 2027 Online Applications.
- Select the 2027 application link to start a new application.
Create an account.
- Enter your personal details.
- Provide a valid email address and cellphone number.
Activate the account using your OTP.
- Check your phone or email for the One-Time Pin (OTP).
- Enter the OTP to verify and activate your account.
Complete the required sections.
- Fill in your personal information.
- Enter your academic history.
- Select the “university.”
- Choose your preferred programmes.
Upload supporting documents.
- Upload a certified copy of ID/passport.
- Upload the latest academic results.
- Upload proof of payment.
Pay the application fee.
- Make payment online or via EasyPay.
- Keep your receipt as proof of payment.
Submit your application.
- Review all details carefully.
- Click submit.
- Save or print your confirmation number.
If you are serious about securing a space in 2027, apply early. Waiting until the last minute increases your fees and reduces your chances of placement.
CAO Contact Details
Phone Numbers
- Call Centre: 031 268 4444
Physical Address
- Gate 11, Central Services Complex – UKZN
- Mary Thiphe Street (Cato Manor Road)
- Cato Manor
- Durban
Postal Address
- Private Bag X06
- Dalbridge
- 4014
For more details, visit the Central Application Office