The CAO 2027 application cycle gives learners a simple and centralised way to apply for university and college programmes. Through one online system, you can submit your details, choose multiple courses, track your status, and upload your documents. Applying early, meeting entry requirements, and keeping your CAO number safe are key to securing a place in your preferred programme. These guidelines will help you complete your 2027 CAO application correctly and on time.
1. Before You Start Your Application
Prepare the following items so your application can be completed without delays:
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Your South African ID number, or passport number if you are an international applicant.
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Your latest school results:
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Current Grade 12 learners: Grade 11 final results plus any available Grade 12 marks.
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Post-school applicants: Your final Grade 12 certificate or equivalent qualification.
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Certified copies of your ID and academic records.
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A working cellphone number and email address — all communication and your CAO number will be sent here.
2. Understanding the CAO System
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CAO allows you to apply once and choose multiple programmes at different institutions.
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Your choices are ranked in order of preference — institutions may use this order when considering you.
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You may log in at any time to track your progress, upload missing documents, or make permitted changes.
3. How to Apply
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Visit the CAO online application portal.
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Select the option to start a new application.
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Enter your ID or passport number to create your profile.
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Complete all required sections: personal details, school information, programme choices, and contact information.
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Submit the form to generate your CAO number, login details, and payment reference.
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Pay the application fee as instructed — your application remains incomplete until the payment is received.
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Upload certified copies of your ID and academic results in the document-upload section.
4. Choosing Your Programmes
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Select programmes using the official CAO programme list for 2027.
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Choose a mix of:
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High-demand programmes (competitive)
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Moderate-demand programmes
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Backup options with lower entry thresholds
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Ensure you meet or are likely to meet the minimum entry requirements for your chosen courses.
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Place your choices in the order of your real preference — institutions can see your ranking.
5. Application Fees for 2027
(Projected based on previous years; official amounts will appear in the 2027 Handbook)
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One application fee covers all your programme choices.
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Late applications cost more and are considered only if there is available space.
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No processing begins until payment is received.
6. After Submitting Your Application
Once your payment and documents are received:
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Institutions will begin reviewing your application when they start their selection cycle.
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You can log in anytime to:
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Check your application status
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See messages from institutions
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Upload updated results (e.g., Grade 12 final results)
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Respond to offers if required
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7. Change of Mind
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If you want to change your programme choices or reorder them, you may use the Change of Mind service.
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This service is usually available for a fee and only until a specified deadline.
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Some programmes do not accept changes after their early closing dates.
8. Important Deadlines for 2027
(Expected timeline – will be confirmed by CAO)
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Applications open early in the year (around the first quarter).
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“On-time” applications close later in the year — specific dates differ by programme.
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High-demand programmes (e.g., medicine, nursing, health sciences) normally close earlier.
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Late applications continue into the following year, but processing depends strictly on space availability.
9. Tips for a Successful 2027 Application
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Apply as early as possible to maximise your chances.
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Double-check programme codes and personal information before submitting.
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Keep your CAO number safe — you will need it throughout the year.
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Upload clear, certified documents; unreadable uploads delay processing.
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Keep checking your email, SMS messages, and the portal for updates.
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Apply for funding (NSFAS or bursaries) separately — it is not handled by CAO.