CAO 2027 Application Dates & Guide – Deadlines, Fees & Tips

The Central Applications Office (CAO) processes applications for universities and TVET colleges in KwaZulu‑Natal. Understanding CAO deadlines and fees is essential to ensure your application reaches your chosen institution on time. This guide covers the key dates for 2027 entry, payment details and how to use the CAO portal — all sourced from the official CAO website and the 2027 Entry Handbook

Table of Contents

1. CAO 2027 Opening and Closing Dates
2. Application Fees and Payment Methods
3. Documents and Steps to Apply
4. Tips for Success
5. FAQs
6. Conclusion

1. CAO 2027 Opening and Closing Dates

• Opening date: Online applications for 2027 entry open 1 March 2026. Closing dates for universities:
• UKZN, DUT and UNIZULU: 30 September 2026 for most undergraduate, honours and postgraduate programmes.
• MUT: most faculties close 30 September 2026; note that MUT’s Engineering and Analytical Chemistry second‑semester intakes close much earlier, on 31 May 2026.
• On‑time administration fee deadline: The CAO’s “on‑time” fee applies to applications and payments received on or before 31 October 2026. This is separate from individual programme closing dates — a programme can close on 30 September even though the on-time fee window runs to 31 October. Late applications: From 1 November 2026, the CAO still accepts submissions, but at the higher late fee, and only for programmes that still have space. Programme‑specific deadlines: Certain competitive programmes close much earlier. UKZN’s MBChB (Medicine) closes on 30 June 2026, and no late applications are accepted for this programme.

📌 Full CAO guide: https://kznuniupdates.org/cao-application/

2. Application Fees and Payment Methods

• On‑time application fees (before 31 October 2026):R250 for South African applicants; R300 for international applicants.
• Late application fees (from 1 November 2026):R470 for South African applicants; R580 for international applicants.
• Change of Mind fee: If you want to reorder or change your programme choices after submitting, a R140 fee applies.
• Payment methods: Pay via EasyPay, bank deposit or credit/debit card on the CAO portal. Always include your CAO reference number and keep the receipt — your application isn’t processed until payment clears.

Explore The Funding page for NSFAS & Bursaries: https://kznuniupdates.org/funding/

3. Documents and Steps to Apply

1. Create a CAO profile: Provide your ID number (or passport, for international applicants) and personal details at www.cao.ac.za.
2. Select institutions: Choose up to six programmes across UKZN, DUT, MUT, UNIZULU and other participating institutions.
3. Upload documents: Certified copies of your ID, most recent school results, proof of payment and any required certificates. Documents must be uploaded on the CAO website — hard copies and emailed documents are not accepted.
4. Submit and pay: Pay the correct application fee and submit the form.
5. Track your application: Use your CAO login (“Check my Application”) to monitor status updates.
6. Respond to requests: If the CAO or an institution asks for additional documents, provide them promptly to avoid delays.

4. Tips for Success

• Apply as soon as the portal opens on 1 March 2026 — some programmes fill up well before their official closing date.
• List programmes in order of preference, and include both high‑demand and backup choices.
• Pay the correct fee before the deadline that applies to you, and keep proof of payment.
• Check institution‑ and faculty‑specific requirements (APS score, portfolios, interviews, extra forms) — closing dates vary by programme, not just by institution.
• Watch out for early‑closing programmes, especially Health Sciences/Medicine and some Engineering intakes.
• Check the CAO website and your email regularly for updates and offer notifications.

📌 APS Score Calculator: https://kznuniupdates.org/aps-score-calculator/

5. FAQs

Q1: Is the CAO application mandatory? A: Yes. All first‑time undergraduate applicants to UKZN, DUT, MUT and UNIZULU must apply via the CAO.

Q2: What if I miss the closing date? A: You can submit a late application from 1 November 2026, but you’ll pay the higher fee (R470/R580), and your application will only be considered if space remains after on‑time applicants have been processed. Programmes marked “no late applications” — such as UKZN Medicine — will not accept late submissions at all.

Q3: Can I change my programme choices? A: Yes, via the CAO’s “Change of Mind” facility, for a R140 fee. Check the CAO site for the exact process and any deadlines that apply.

Q4: When will I get my offer? A: Timelines vary by institution and programme; first offers for 2027 entry are typically issued between May and July 2026, with further rounds continuing after final NSC results are released in January 2027.

6. Conclusion

Applying via the CAO is the gateway to KZN universities and colleges. Mark 1 March 2026 as your start date, keep 30 September 2026 in mind as the standard closing date for UKZN, DUT and UNIZULU, and don’t miss the 31 October 2026 on‑time fee deadline. Pay the correct fee, upload all documents and track your application to secure your place for 2027. With proper planning and timely action, you’ll be one step closer to your dream programme.

Dates and fees above are drawn from the official CAO website (cao.ac.za) and the CAO 2027 Entry Handbook. Some faculty‑ and programme‑level deadlines vary — always confirm the specific closing date for your chosen programme on the CAO portal before applying.