How to Change Your CAO Choices After Applying
How to Change Your CAO Programme Choices After Applying
Made the wrong programme choices on your CAO application? Changed your mind about which university or course you want? The good news is that CAO allows you to change your programme choices after you have submitted your application. However, there are important rules, deadlines, and costs to be aware of. This guide explains everything you need to know about amending your CAO choices.
Can You Change CAO Choices After Submission?
Yes, CAO allows applicants to change their programme choices after the initial submission. This is a common process – many students reconsider their options after doing more research, receiving matric results, or getting advice from teachers and career counsellors. Changes can be made online through your CAO account at www.cao.ac.za.
Deadlines for Changing Choices
There are typically two windows for changing your CAO choices:
| Period | Deadline | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Before closing | 31 October 2025 | Free | Changes made before the on-time deadline are free |
| After results | Late January 2026 | May apply | Changes after matric results may incur an additional fee |
The exact dates and fees for changes are announced by CAO each year. Check the CAO website or your applicant portal for the most current information.
How to Change Your Choices – Step by Step
- Log in to your CAO account at www.cao.ac.za using your username and password.
- Navigate to the "Change of Mind" or "Amend Choices" section in your application portal.
- Select the programme you want to change and replace it with your new choice.
- Reorder your preferences if needed. Remember to list your most preferred programme first.
- Pay any applicable fee for the change.
- Submit your changes and save a copy of the confirmation.
Tips for Making Smart Changes
- Research thoroughly: Before changing, use our university comparison tool and check APS requirements for your new choices.
- Be strategic: If your matric results were better or worse than expected, adjust your choices accordingly. Higher results may qualify you for more competitive programmes.
- Keep safe options: Always include at least one or two programmes where you comfortably exceed the minimum requirements.
- Check subject requirements: A high APS alone is not enough – ensure you meet specific subject requirements for your new choices.
- Consider career prospects: Think about what careers each programme leads to. See our guide to highest paying careers.
What Happens to Your Old Choices?
When you change a programme choice, the old selection is replaced entirely. Any status updates or provisional offers from the old programme are cancelled. The new programme choice will be processed from scratch, which means it may take time for the new university to assess your application.
When Should You NOT Change Your Choices?
Avoid changing your choices in these situations:
- You already have an acceptance: If you have been provisionally accepted or firmly accepted to a programme you are happy with, changing it could mean losing that offer.
- It is too close to the deadline: Last-minute changes may not be processed in time.
- You are making an emotional decision: Take time to think carefully rather than making impulsive changes.
Need Help Deciding?
Use our free tools to make informed decisions: Calculate your APS, compare universities, check NSFAS eligibility, and browse our programme comparison guides. Making the right choice now sets the foundation for your entire career.