CAO 2028 Applications Now Open – Dates, Fees & How to Apply
The 2028 application form for the Central Applications Office (CAO) will officially open in March 2027 for students seeking admission to study in the 2028 academic year.
Prospective students who wish to gain early admission to reputable universities in KwaZulu-Natal and other recognised TVET colleges are encouraged to start preparing for their applications.
The CAO application portal accepts applications from both domestic and international students, provided they meet the relevant admission requirements.
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 via CAO for 2028
Applications for the 2028 academic year through the Central Applications Office (CAO) are expected to open on 1 March 2027. From this date, prospective students will be able to access the online application portal and submit their applications for admission to participating institutions.
- Opening Date: 1 March 2027
- Regular Closing Date: 31 October 2027
- Late Application Period: November 2027 to January 2028 (tentative, subject to available spaces and applicable fees)
Late applications may be considered for programmes that still have available spaces. Applicants should note that late applications may attract higher fees and that admission is not guaranteed.
Who Can Apply via the CAO Portal?
The CAO application portal is available to a wide range of prospective students, including those who:
- Are applying for a new undergraduate qualification.
- Are interested in postgraduate study where applications are accepted through the CAO.
- Want to change their programme or institution.
- Wish to apply to participating universities in KwaZulu-Natal, including:
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- University of Zululand (UNIZULU)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
- Want to pursue programmes offered by participating TVET colleges.
- Are South African or international applicants who meet the relevant admission requirements.
CAO 2028 Application Fees
The Central Applications Office (CAO) application fee depends on when you submit your application. The fee is paid directly to the CAO and not to the institution you are applying to.
Regular/On-Time Application Fee
- South African applicants: R280
- International applicants: R300
Late Application Fee
Applications submitted from 1 November 2027 will be subject to the late application fee:
- 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 2028
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 2028 Online Applications.
- Select the 2028 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.
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
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