CAO Exceptional Late Applications
The exceptional closing date of 22nd of July at 5:15pm applies only to applicants who are currently undergraduate students in any year in any one of the participating HEIs (subject to the exclusions listed on page 15). In order to avail of the Exceptional Late Application facility you must have entered the HEI through the CAO system.
If you did not enter your current course through the CAO system, you must first contact the Admissions Office of the HEI to which you wish to apply, and they will inform you if you may submit an application direct to the institution.
Exclusions:
You may submit a late application only for entry to courses other than your existing course. If you wish to repeat the year in the same course, you must arrange this within your HEI.
To make an Exceptional Late Application you must:
Making a CAO Late Application
- Visit CAO Website: Go to www.cao.ac.za.
- Check Programmes: Click on ‘Available programmes’ to browse the list of programs offered.
- Start Application: Click on ‘Apply Now’.
- Enter Details: Input your index number or passport number.
- Fill Application Form: Complete your application by filling in all required details.
- Pay Application Fee: Ensure to pay the application fee as specified.
- Print and Attach Documents:
- Print out the declaration form and deposit slip.
- Attach required documents and proof of payment to your declaration form.
- Submit Application:
- Post it to the CAO or hand it in at CAO offices.
- Keep the receipt and note your CAO number and password for future reference.
How To Download and Submit CAO Application Form (Offline)
Download Form: Visit the CAO website, find the program list, and download the CAO application form.
Complete the Form: Fill in all necessary details accurately.
Payment: Pay the required application fee.
Attach Documents: Include the required documents and proof of payment with the filled form.
Submission: Submit your form at a CAO office or post it to the CAO mailbox.
Uploading Documents to CAO Online Portal
Access CAO Website: Visit www.cao.ac.za.
Document Upload: Click on ‘Upload My Documents’ on the homepage.
Login: Enter your CAO number and password.
Upload Documents: Add your documents and examination results.
Review and Submit: Confirm correct documents upload and click ‘Submit My Documents’.
Paying for CAO Online Application
Immediate Payment: Pay the application fee online while applying.
Later Payment:
- Visit CAO website, click on ‘Payments’.
- Enter CAO or ID number and follow the prompts to pay by credit card.
Deadlines for CAO Applications 2025-2026
Normal Application Deadline: 1st February 2025-2026 at 17:00.
Late Application Deadline: 22nd July 2025-2026 at 17:00.
Contacting CAO
Physical Address: Gate 11, Central Services Complex – UKZN, Mary Thiphe Street, Cato Manor, Durban.
Postal Address: Private Bag X06, Dalbridge, 4014.
Email: enqgeneralcao@cao.ac.za
Phone: 031 268 4444
Additional Information
CAO Portal Login: To manage your application, visit cao.ac.za/login.aspx.
NSFAS Portal: For financial aid, check the NSFAS Student Portal.
Change of Mind for Exceptional Late Applications (Exception to Timetable):
The exceptional Change of Mind closing date of 22nd of July at 5:15pm applies only to applicants who are currently undergraduate students in any year, in any one of the participating HEIs (subject to the exclusions listed above), and who previously made an application through CAO for 2019entry. In order to avail of the Exceptional Change of Mind facility you must have entered the HEI through the CAO system.
Applicants must complete a paper Change of Mind form (contact CAO to request a form) and, once completed, this form needs to be brought to the Admissions Office of your current institution to be stamped. The form must then be returned to CAO by the 22nd of July at 5:15pm. There is no fee for this service. CAO cannot accept any responsibility for loss or hardship arising from your failure to avail of correction opportunities within the time specified.
