CAO Fees Calculator 2026 – Application Fee Breakdown
Calculate exactly how much your CAO application will cost. See on-time vs late fees, NSFAS waivers and all accepted payment methods.
Calculate Your CAO Application Fee
Answer the questions below to see exactly what you will pay.
CAO Application Fees for 2026
The CAO application fee is a once-off payment that covers your entire application for up to six programmes. The fee depends on your citizenship and when you apply.
| Applicant Type | On-Time (before 31 Oct 2025) | Late Fee | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| South African | R250 | R470 | R220 by applying on time |
| International | R300 | R580 | R280 by applying on time |
NSFAS Fee Waiver
If you are applying for NSFAS funding, you may qualify for a full fee waiver (R0). To request it:
- Select the NSFAS option when completing your CAO application online.
- Provide proof of NSFAS application or qualifying household income.
- If approved, the fee is waived and you submit at no cost.
Not sure if you qualify? Use our NSFAS Eligibility Checker. Read the complete NSFAS guide for details.
How to Pay Your CAO Fee
- Online payment: Credit or debit card on www.cao.ac.za – fastest method.
- EasyPay: Pay at Shoprite, Checkers, Pick n Pay using your CAO reference number.
- Bank deposit / EFT: Pay into the CAO bank account. Allow 3-5 working days for verification.
- Cash at CAO office: Gate 11, Mary Thiphe Street, Cato Manor, Durban. Mon-Fri 08:00-16:30.
What the CAO Fee Covers
Your fee covers processing for up to six programmes across UKZN, DUT, MUT and UNIZULU; forwarding applications to universities; online status tracking; and SMS/email notifications. The fee is non-refundable.
Tips to Save Money
- Apply before 31 October 2025 to pay the lower on-time fee. See all key deadlines.
- Apply for NSFAS if your household income is under R350,000. Check eligibility.
- Use all six choices – one fee covers all. Compare universities to make informed selections.
July 2026 Second Semester – Fees & Deadlines
If you are applying for the July 2026 (second semester) intake, the same fee structure applies with updated deadlines:
| Applicant Type | On-Time (by 31 May 2026) | Late Fee (from 1 June 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| South African | R250 | R470 |
| International | R300 | R580 |
The on-time deadline for July 2026 entry is 31 May 2026 — just over two months away. Apply now to pay the standard fee and secure priority processing. Read our full guide on the CAO July 2026 second semester intake.
CAO Fee vs University Tuition
The CAO application fee is not tuition. Tuition fees are separate, annual charges paid once enrolled (e.g. R35,000-R50,000/year at UKZN). If you qualify for NSFAS, tuition is fully covered. Learn more about what NSFAS covers and explore alternative bursaries.