When is CAO Application Opening For 2026

When is CAO Applications Opening For 2026

The Central Applications Office (CAO) will open for 2026 entry applications on March 1, 2025. It will process applications for admission to all universities, universities of technology, most private colleges, and four TVET colleges in KwaZulu-Natal.

To apply to study in 2026, prospective students are encouraged to visit the CAO application portal at www.cao.ac.za and complete the form

If you prepare beforehand, you can complete the CAO 2026 application form before the closing date. Once you have all the relevant documentation ready, you may apply online in minutes by completing the application, uploading the necessary documents, and paying the application fee.

CAO Online Application Period For 2026

Don’t wait—apply early to South African universities for the 2026 academic year through the Central Application Office (CAO). Submit your application between March 1 and October 31, 2025, to secure your spot at one of the four universities in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Early applications are reviewed sooner and help you avoid paying a late application fee.

Apply to Multiple Courses via CAO

With CAO, you can apply to up to six courses with one application fee. Submit your application online between March 1 and October 31 to maximize your chances of admission and financial aid.

University Applications Open for 2026 via CAO

We are reaching out to all 2025 matriculants and those who were unable to apply in prior years! You have the chance to pursue your academic objectives as the Central Application Office (CAO) is currently accepting applications for 2026.

When to Apply

Start your application procedure with CAO on March 1, 2025. It is time to apply to up to six South African colleges and universities!

You have until October 31, 2025, to submit all application materials. Late applications are available beginning November 1, 2025, but they incur an extra application fee

What You Need to Apply via CAO for 2026

You need to apply through the CAO application portal with the following documents

Required Documents:

Certified Copy of ID and Birth certificate
Final Grade 11 Report (Grade 12 applicants) OR Highest qualification achieved
Copy of study/residence permit (international applicants)
Proof of Payment of Application Fee
June Grade 12 Report (submit as soon as received)
September/Trials Grade 12 Report (submit as soon as received)
Additional documents requested by specific institutions (e.g., academic records)

CAO Application Fees:

South African Applicants:

On-time: R250
Late: R470

International Applicants:

On-time: R300
Late: R580

Payment Methods:

Online: Credit card payment during application on www.cao.ac.za.
EasyPay: Use your unique EasyPay number at participating outlets.

Don’t be late! Submit your application before the deadline to avoid higher fees.

How to Apply through the CAO (Two Options):

Online Application:

Visit www.cao.ac.za and select “Apply.”
Follow the instructions and enter your information.
Pay the application fee and upload supporting documents.

Hard-copy Application:

Less efficient, takes longer to process.
Application Forms are available at schools, libraries, or CAO offices.
Submit the completed form with documents to CAO by mail, hand delivery, or email as shown here

- Email: formsreceivedcao@cao.ac.za
- Postal: Private Bag X06, Dalbridge, 4014
- Hand delivering it to CAO, Gate 11, Mary Thiphe Street (previously Cato Manor Road), Durban

Remember:

Even for hard-copy applications, you must still complete the online process.
Upload supporting documents online after submitting your hard-copy form.

For more details:

Visit the CAO website: www.cao.ac.za
Contact the CAO Call Centre: 031 268 4444 or 086 086 0226
Email: formrequestcao@cao.ac.za

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