How to Apply to CAO Step by Step – Complete 2026 Guide

How to Apply to CAO for 2026 – Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Applying to the Central Applications Office (CAO) is the first step toward studying at any of the four KwaZulu-Natal universities: UKZN, DUT, MUT, and UNIZULU. While the process is straightforward, many applicants make avoidable mistakes that delay their applications or reduce their chances of acceptance. This guide walks you through every step of the CAO application process for 2026 entry, from creating your account to accepting an offer.

Step 1: Create Your CAO Account

Visit www.cao.ac.za and click on "Apply Now" or "New Application." You will need to provide your personal details including your full name (as it appears on your ID), date of birth, South African ID number (or passport number for international applicants), email address, and cellphone number. Choose a strong password that you will remember – you will need it to log in and check your application status later.

Make sure to use a valid email address that you check regularly. CAO will send important notifications about your application, offers, and deadlines to this email. If you use a school email, remember that you may lose access after graduating.

Step 2: Complete Your Personal Information

After creating your account, log in and complete your full profile. This includes your residential address, postal address, school information (name, EMIS number, province), and parent or guardian details. For the school section, you will need your school's official name and your examination number. If you are a mature applicant or transferring student, select the appropriate applicant type.

Step 3: Choose Your Programmes (Up to Six)

This is the most important step. You can choose up to six programmes across any combination of the four universities. List them in order of preference – your first choice is the programme you most want to study. Here are key tips for choosing wisely:

• Mix ambitious and safe choices: Include some programmes where you exceed the minimum APS requirements and some that are more competitive.
• Research thoroughly: Use our university comparison tool to understand what each institution offers.
• Check subject requirements: Many programmes require specific subjects at specific levels. For example, engineering typically needs Maths and Physical Science at Level 5 or above.
• Consider career prospects: Think about what careers each qualification leads to. Read about the highest paying careers in South Africa.
• Use all six choices: There is no penalty for using all six. The more options you have, the better your chances of receiving at least one offer.

Step 4: Upload Your Documents

You will need to upload scanned copies or clear photos of several documents. See our complete document checklist for full details. At minimum, you will need:

• Certified copy of your South African ID or passport
• Most recent academic results (Grade 11 final results or Grade 12 June results)
• Proof of payment for the application fee (unless applying for a fee waiver)

Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and in PDF or image format. Blurry or incomplete documents are a common reason for application delays.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

The application fee for 2026 is R250 for South African applicants (on-time) or R300 for international applicants. Late applications cost R470 (SA) or R580 (international). Use our fees calculator to determine your exact fee.

Payment can be made by credit/debit card online, EasyPay at major retailers, bank deposit, or cash at the CAO office. If you are applying for NSFAS funding, you may qualify for a full fee waiver – select this option during your application.

Step 6: Review and Submit

Before clicking submit, carefully review every section of your application. Check that your personal details match your ID exactly, your programme choices are in the correct order, all documents have been uploaded, and your payment has been processed. Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation email and your CAO reference number. Save this number – you will need it for all future correspondence.

Step 7: Track Your Application Status

After submission, log in to your CAO account regularly to check your application status. The status will update as universities process your application. Read our guide on what each status means so you know exactly where you stand.

Step 8: Accept Your Offer

If you receive an offer, you must accept it within the specified deadline. You can accept one firm offer from one university. If you receive multiple offers, choose carefully – consider the programme content, location, accommodation, and career prospects. Once accepted, follow the university's registration instructions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Applying late: Late applications cost more and receive lower priority. Apply before 31 October 2025.
2. Wrong personal details: Names must match your ID exactly.
3. Unclear documents: Take clear photos in good lighting.
4. Not using all six choices: One fee covers six programmes – use them all.
5. Not checking status regularly: Universities may request additional documents.

What Happens Next?

After submitting, your application is forwarded to each university you selected. They will assess your application based on your APS score, subject levels, and programme-specific requirements. Offers are typically made from January onwards, with provisional offers issued before matric results and firm offers after. Stay proactive, check your status regularly, and prepare for your first year at university.