CAO Application 2026: Guide for Universities in KwaZulu-Natal

Applying to university in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) for the 2026 academic year usually means submitting your application through the Central Applications Office (CAO). 

The CAO is a centralised system that manages undergraduate admissions for major universities and some private institutions in KZN. 

What Is the CAO and How Does It Work?

The Central Applications Office (CAO) is a central admissions service used by
several universities in KwaZulu-Natal. 

Instead of applying separately to each university, you complete a single CAO application and choose multiple institutions or programmes in one form. 

The CAO forwards your application to those universities. Universities then assess your eligibility and decide on offers. 

Using CAO can save time and money because you pay one administration fee for up to six programme choices at participating universities. 

The CAO also lets you track your application status and make a Change of Mind if needed. 

Which KwaZulu-Natal Universities Use the CAO in 2026?

For the 2026 intake, several KZN universities accept undergraduate applications only through the CAO system. These include:

1. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
2. Durban University of Technology (DUT)
3. Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
4. University of Zululand (UNIZULU)

These institutions require you to submit your CAO application by the published deadlines and follow the CAO rules. 

Note that some postgraduate or specialised programmes may require direct applications to the university instead of CAO. 

When Are the Important CAO 2026 Application Dates?

The general CAO application timeline for 2026 is as follows:

1. Applications Open: April 1, 2025 (some sources show March 1, 2025, as an earlier opening)
2. On-Time Application Deadline: 30 September 2025 (for most programmes)
3. Late Applications: From 1 November 2025, with higher fees.

Some competitive programmes close earlier than others. 

For example, Medicine at UKZN often closes by 30 June 2025, and other high-demand courses may close before the general deadline. 

Always check the exact closing date for each specific programme on the CAO website or in the CAO Handbook. (turn0search13)

Additionally, after December 2025, only certain universities like MUT and UNIZULU may still accept applications or Change of Mind requests on a space-available basis up to late February 2026. (turn0search25)

What Documents Do I Need for My CAO Application?

Before starting your CAO application, gather essential documents and details:

1. Certified copy of your South African ID or passport (for international applicants).
2. Certified copies of academic results: Grade 11 final results if you are applying early, plus Grade 12 mid-year and final results when available.
3. Proof of payment of the CAO administration fee.

Certified copies must meet the CAO’s requirements so that universities can assess your application. 

You may also need NSFAS reference details if you are applying for funding through the CAO portal.

How Do I Apply Online Through the CAO?

Applying through the CAO online is straightforward:

1. Visit the official CAO website.
2. Click “Apply Now” and create an account with a valid email address and your ID number.
3. Complete the personal information and educational history sections.
4. Choose up to six programmes across the CAO member institutions.
5. Upload certified supporting documents where required.
6. Pay the application fee online (credit card, EFT, or EasyPay outlets).
7. Submit the application and note your CAO reference number for future tracking.

Your CAO number is important. You use it to check application status, accept offers, update details, or request a Change of Mind before the deadline.

How Do I Check My CAO Application Status?

After submitting your application, you can check the status online:

1. Go to “Check My Application” on the CAO homepage.
2. Enter your CAO reference number, ID number or passport number.
3. View your application progress and any messages from participating universities.

The status will show whether your application has been received, is waiting for a decision, has been accepted, or needs additional documents. 

You should check regularly, as universities update statuses at different times.

What Happens After I Submit a CAO Application?

Once your CAO application is submitted and paid:

1. You will receive a confirmation email or SMS with your reference number.
2. Participating universities assess your application based on your results and programme requirements.
3. Offers are made at scheduled rounds, usually from October through January 2026.
4. If accepted, follow the university’s instructions to register and secure your place.
5. If unsuccessful or waiting, you may submit a Change of Mind (before the deadline) to adjust your programme choices.

Remember that competitive programmes fill early, so submit your application early and monitor your status regularly.