CAO July 2026 Second Semester Intake – Apply Before 31 May
CAO Second Semester / Mid-Year Intake 2026
While the main CAO application cycle targets January 2026 entry, KwaZulu-Natal universities may also offer a mid-year / second semester intake in July 2026 for certain programmes. If you missed the January 2026 intake, or prefer to start university in July, this guide covers everything you need to know — including the approaching 31 May 2026 on-time deadline.
Is There a CAO July 2026 Intake?
Yes — the Central Applications Office (CAO) typically runs a second application cycle targeting July/second semester entry. The on-time deadline for this cycle is approximately 31 May 2026. As of March 2026, the window is still open. If you are considering July entry, apply as soon as possible to secure your spot in popular programmes before they fill up.
Important note: Not all programmes offer mid-year entry. Professional and competitive programmes (Medicine, Engineering, Law) typically only admit students in January. However, many diploma, humanities and education programmes are open for July entry. Always confirm directly with the relevant university or check at cao.ac.za.
Second Semester 2026 Key Dates
| Date | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| March–April 2026 | Applications open | Apply at cao.ac.za for second semester / July entry |
| 31 May 2026 | On-time closing date | Last day for on-time applications at standard fee (R250 SA / R300 Intl) |
| From 1 June 2026 | Late applications | Higher fee applies: R470 (SA) / R580 (International) |
| June 2026 | Offers issued | Universities make offers to successful applicants |
| June 2026 | Offer acceptance deadline | Accept your offer before it expires |
| July 2026 | Second semester begins | Classes start for July intake students at most KZN universities |
Which Programmes Accept Mid-Year Entry?
Mid-year (July) entry is typically available for:
- National Diplomas at DUT and MUT – many diploma programmes admit students in July
- Higher Certificates – bridging and foundation programmes often have flexible start dates
- Arts and Humanities (BA) at UKZN and UNIZULU – selected programmes allow mid-year entry
- Education (BEd) – some UNIZULU and UKZN Education programmes
- Commerce diplomas at DUT and MUT
- IT and Business diplomas at DUT and MUT
Mid-year entry is generally not available for:
- Medicine (MBChB) and most Health Sciences programmes at UKZN
- Engineering degree programmes
- Law (LLB)
- Architecture
- Most competitive, structured four-year degree programmes
How to Apply for the July 2026 Intake
The process is the same as the January intake:
- Log in or register at www.cao.ac.za
- Select second semester / July 2026 entry when setting your application preferences
- Choose up to six programmes across UKZN, DUT, MUT and UNIZULU
- Upload your documents – certified ID copy, matric certificate, latest academic results
- Pay the application fee – calculate your fee here
- Submit and track your status online – see what each status means
For a complete step-by-step walkthrough, read our guide on how to apply to CAO. Use our free APS calculator to confirm you meet the requirements before applying.
CAO Application Fee for the July 2026 Intake
The same fee structure applies:
- On-time (by 31 May 2026): R250 for SA citizens / R300 for international students
- Late (after 31 May 2026): R470 for SA citizens / R580 for international students
If you qualify for NSFAS, you may be eligible for a CAO fee waiver. Check your NSFAS eligibility here. Use our fees calculator to see exactly what you will pay.
Should You Wait for July or Reapply for January 2027?
If you missed January 2026 entry, you have three main options:
- Apply for July 2026 entry (now) – Start university mid-year if your chosen programme offers it. The 31 May deadline is coming up fast. You will graduate six months later than January starters, but this is a completely valid path.
- Improve your marks and reapply for January 2027 – If your APS is below the minimum, use the time to improve your APS score, retake subjects, or complete a bridging course. CAO applications for 2027 entry typically open in April 2026.
- Enrol at a TVET college – TVET colleges offer National Certificates and diplomas with lower entry requirements and multiple intake periods throughout the year. Certain TVET qualifications can count toward Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for future university admission.
NSFAS for July Intake Students
NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) funding is available for second semester / July intake students, but the timing can be complex. The main NSFAS application cycle runs from September to January for the following academic year. If you start in July 2026, contact NSFAS at www.nsfas.org.za or your university's Financial Aid Office to confirm funding availability and application procedures for mid-year starters.
Use our NSFAS eligibility checker to see if you qualify, and read the complete NSFAS application guide for full details.
Productive Ways to Use Your Time While Waiting
Whether you are waiting for a July offer or planning to apply in 2027, use this period wisely:
- Strengthen weak subjects or take supplementary exams to improve your APS
- Complete online courses or certifications in your chosen field
- Get part-time or volunteer work experience — it strengthens your future applications
- Research your career options using our guide on highest paying careers in South Africa
- Read our gap year options guide for more productive ideas