CAO Application Dates Now Open For 2028

By | May 1, 2022
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CAO Application Dates Now Open For 2028

CAO Application Dates Now Open For 2027

The Central Applications Office (CAO) has announced the application dates for students seeking admission to participating higher education institutions for the 2028 academic year. Prospective applicants are encouraged to take note of the published dates and complete their applications on time to avoid missing out on admission opportunities.

Missing the application period could mean having to wait until the following academic year to apply. In this guide, you will find the important CAO 2028 application dates, including when the application portal is expected to open and close, so you can plan ahead and submit your application within the required timeframe

What is the CAO?

The Central Applications Office (CAO) is a non-profit organisation that simplifies the application process for universities and colleges in KwaZulu-Natal, including:

  • Durban University of Technology (DUT)
  • Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
  • University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
  • University of Zululand (UNIZULU)
  • Most private colleges in KwaZulu-Natal

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CAO Application Date 2027

The CAO generally opens applications on 1 March of the year preceding the year of entry.

Key Dates to Remember

  • Opening Date: March 1, 2027.
  • “On-Time” Deadline: October 31, 2027.
  • Late Application Fee: From November 1, 2027, all submissions will be considered “Late” and will incur a higher application fee.

Documents Needed for CAO 2028 Applications

Before starting your CAO 2028 online application at www.cao.ac.za, it is advisable to have the necessary supporting documents available. Depending on your applicant status, you may be asked to provide:

  • A certified copy of your ID document or birth certificate
  • Your final Grade 11 report, if you are currently in Grade 12
  • A copy of your highest qualification obtained, if you have already completed your studies
  • A valid study or residence permit, if you are a non-South African applicant
  • Your June Grade 12 report, once it becomes available, if you are currently in Grade 12
  • Your September/Trial Grade 12 report, once available, if you are currently in Grade 12

Make sure all documents are clear and legible before uploading them to the CAO portal.

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Application Fee of the Central Applications Office (CAO)

The Central Applications Office (CAO) charges different fees depending on the intake year, application date, and applicant status (South African or International). Here’s a breakdown of the fees for the January 2028 and July 2027 intakes:

January 2028 Intake

  • Early Submission (by October 2027):
    • South African applicants: R250.00
    • International Applicants: R300.00
  • Submission after the Closing Date (after October 2027):
    • South African applicants: R470.00
    • International Applicants: R580.00

July 2027 Intake

  • Early Submission (by May 2027):
    • South African applicants: R250.00
    • International Applicants: R300.00
  • Submission after the Closing Date (after June 2027):
    • South African applicants: R470.00
    • International Applicants: R580.00

Read Also: Download the CAO Handbook for 2027 admission

Online Application Steps for the Central Applications Office (CAO)

Follow the steps below to apply through the Central Applications Office application portal for the academic year 2028

Steps:

  1. Create an account:

    • Go to the CAO website: https://www.cao.ac.za/
    • Click on “Apply” and then “Continue Application”.
    • Register for a new account by providing your details and creating a password.

  2. Complete your application:

    • Once logged in, select the “Apply” tab.
    • Choose the “First Semester” option for January intake.
    • Enter your academic achievements (matric results, certificates, etc.).
    • Select the study programmes you’re interested in (up to 12 choices).
    • For each programme, choose the specific campus and qualification option.
    • Upload required documents (certified copies of certificates, ID, etc.).
    • Review your application carefully before submitting it.

  3. Pay the application fee:

    • After submitting your application, you’ll be redirected to the payment page.
    • You can pay online using EasyPay or via other methods mentioned on the website.
    • Your application will be available to chosen institutions only after successful payment.

How to reach the Central Applications Office

  • Physical Address
  • Gate 11, Mary Thiphe Street (previously Cato Manor Road), Durban
  • Postal Address:
  • Private Bag X06,
  • Dalbridge, 4014
  • Email Address:
  • enquiries@cao.ac.za
  • Telephone Number
  • 031 268 4444
  • 0860 860 226

For more information about Central Applications Office, visit the official page

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