The Central Applications process all applications for post-secondary courses at South Africa’s universities and higher education institutions Office (CAO). This page explains how to use the CAO student portal to see your CAO status check application.
CAO Applications
If you want to apply to enter the first year of the following types of courses, you need to apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO):
- Higher Certificate (Level 6)
- Ordinary Degree (Level 7)
- Honors Degree (Level 8)
This applies to all different types of applicants;
- Those presenting with Leaving Certificate results
- Those presenting with QQI/FETAC Awards
- Those presenting with European or Non-European Qualifications
- Mature Students
How to View My CAO Application Status Check Online
You can check your CAO application status online via the CAO student Portal.
- First, access the CAO Portal at the following link: https://cao.ac.za/MyApplicationLogin.aspx.
- Select and enter one of the following identification numbers:
– CAO Number
– ID Number
– Passport Number - Then click the Submit button
You will now be presented with your CAO application status.
What Do the Different Statuses Mean?
When describing how far along the institution is in considering your application, the CAO employs precise language. Please refer to the list of modifications to the admission application status below:
1. Waiting for a Decision: The organization or school has not yet given your application any thought (This is the default status for on-time applications).
2. Late Application: Your application was submitted after the program’s closing date, so this is the default status. Each institution has a unique policy regarding late applications. For more details, consult the prospectus of the institution.
3. Awaiting Results: Before making a judgment on your application, the institution is awaiting additional findings (such as the June, Trial, or Final NSC results).
CAO Application Important Dates
The below table includes a list of all key dates and deadlines for CAO applications.
Please note:
- They may amend these dates at any time. Please visit www.cao.ie for the most up-to-date dates and deadlines.
- Tests and interviews form part of the entry requirements for certain courses. Please consult individual course pages for more information.
DATE |
ACTIVITY |
| 6th November (12:00) | CAO online application facility opens. CAO Change of Course choices facility opens |
| 20th January (17:15) | Apply online by this date to avail of the discounted application fee of €30. |
| 1st February (17:15) | Normal closing date for applications. |
| 5th February (12:00) | Online facility to amend course choices becomes available (€10 Fee) |
| Before 15th February | Paper Applicants will be sent a Statement of Course Choices. (Contact CAO if you do not receive it) |
| Between 2nd February and 22nd February | Registration for Mature Nursing Test (PAS) |
| 1st March (17:15) | Closing date for amending course choices Closing date for final completion of online HEAR/DARE forms |
| 5th March (12:00) | The late application facility opens. |
| 1st April (17:15) | Latest date for HEAR/DARE supporting documentation to arrive in CAO |
| TBC | Mature Nursing Test (PAS) |
| 1st May (17:15) | Closing date for late applications |
| 5th May (12:00) | Online Change of Mind facility becomes available (Free) |
| Before 15th May | Late Paper Applicants will be sent a Statement of Course Choices (Contact CAO if you do not receive it) |
| Before the End of May | Statement of Application Record sent to all applicants (Contact CAO if you do not receive it) |
| 1st July (17:15) | Change of Mind closes |
| Early July | Round A offers for certain Non-Standard categories of applicants – applicants receive an offer by post, by e-mail, and by SMS text |
| 22nd July (17:15) | Exceptional closing date for late applications for those already attending a participating HEI |
| Early August | Round 0 offers for certain Non-Standard categories of applicants – applicants receive an offer by post, by e-mail, and by SMS text |
| Mid-August | Current year Leaving Certificate results issued |
| 20th August | Round 1 offers are available from 06:00 online – also issued by post, e-mail, and SMS text. Applicants who have not received an offer will receive a Statement of Application Record |
| 24th August | Round 1 Acceptance closing date (17:15). |
| 29th August | Round 2 offers are available from 10:00 online. |
| 31st August | Round 2 Acceptance closing date (17:15). |
| Early September | DkIT begins registration |
| Early October | Results of Leaving Certificate appeals released |
| 17th October (17:15) | Offer Season Ends. |
Related Posts:
- CPUT Bellville Campus Late Application 2024
- University of the Western Cape Late Application 2024
- SANTS Private Higher Education Institution Late Application
- College of the Transfiguration Late Application 2024
How Much is the CAO Application Fee in South Africa?
If filed on time, the CAO application cost is R300 for foreign applicants and R250 for South African citizens.
A late fee of R470 for South African citizens and R580 for international students will be assessed if the CAO receives if the documents and forms after the deadline.
You can use one of the options listed below to pay the CAO application fee:
| Payment option | Where payment can be made | Payment type accepted |
| EASYPAY * Preferred payment option* | Pick n Pay, Checkers, Shoprite, Woolworths, or any store displaying the EasyPay sign. | Cash, Debit, or Credit Card |
| Paying online by Credit Card | Visit www.cao.ac.za Click on ‘My Application’, enter your CAO or ID number, and follow the prompts. | Credit Card Payment ONLY |
| Credit or Debit Card payment | At the CAO Office. Gate 11, UKZN, Mary Thiphe Street, Cato Manor, Durban | Credit or Debit Card |
How to Know if CAO Has Received My Documents?
You must mail your application with a stamped-addressed postcard or envelope if you want the CAO to send you an acknowledgment of receipt of your paperwork and application form.
Upon receipt, CAO will then return the acknowledgment in this postcard or envelope. Please take note that the CAO can only certify to the student that the supporting documents have been received; they cannot verify the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the materials.
CAO Contact Details
Prospective students can contact the CAO directly, either online contact via social media/email. Or using the phone number below.
Twitter: @CAOKZN
Facebook: @CentralApplicationsOffice
- CAO Address: Mary Thiphe Street (formerly corner of Francois and Cato Manor Roads), Cato Manor, Durban
- CAO Contact Number: (031) 268 4444 or Share Call: 086 0860 CAO / 086 0860 226
- Contact Hours: Monday – Friday 08:00 – 16:30
- CAO Email address: customerservice@cao.ac.za
