The Central Applications Office manages applications for full-time study at the universities in KZN. These are University of KwaZulu-Natal, Mangosuthu University of Technology, University of Zululand and Durban University of Technology.
The universities in KZN are very popular and over-subscribed. UKZN had more than 300,000 applications last year for only 9,000 places. There are similar problems for the other universities in the province.
So if you want to study next year it is important to get your applications in early, and be accurate in your application.
The CAO helps you apply to a range of higher education institutions in that province with one central application. It is set up as a registered non‑profit company that processes applications on behalf of public universities, universities of technology, and many private colleges in KZN.
With just one application through the CAO, you can apply to several programmes and institutions without having to submit separate forms to each one.
Here’s how the CAO assists young people who want to study at university:
• It saves time and effort because instead of completing many different application forms for each institution, applicants complete one online application that covers up to six programme choices across participating institutions.
• It reduces application costs since students pay only one administration fee for their CAO application rather than separate fees for each university.
• It provides access to a wide range of study options, including Degrees, Diplomas, and Certificates at public universities, universities of technology, and many private colleges in KZN.
• It offers online support tools, including the ability to upload documents, check application status, make changes (a “Change of Mind”), and access guidance resources through its digital portal.
• After the application is submitted, the CAO forwards the information to the chosen institutions, which then make their own admission decisions and communicate offers directly to applicants.
In short, the CAO makes the process of applying to university or college simpler, more affordable, and more organised for young people aiming to start tertiary studies in KwaZulu‑Natal.
HOW TO APPLY
Applications are all made via the CAO website.
CLICK HERE FOR THE CAO WEBSITE
