The Department of Higher Education (DHET) relies on the Central Application Clearing House (CACH) system to ensure that all students who have been denied university or TVET college admission due to a lack of available space are afforded the chance to be allocated placements.
With effect from 30 January, prospective students were allowed to sign up on the CACH system with a closing application deadline of Friday, 31 March. Once registered, students provide information about their qualifications, the courses they are interested in, and their location.
The system then matches the student's information with available spaces at institutions and provides the student with a list of possible options. CACH also operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and students need to apply as soon as possible to increase their chances of finding an available study opportunity.
However, for those who have been rejected and were unable to find a place to study, the department has advised them to visit and register on the SAYouth website and submit applications for job opportunities
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) launched a project called the iWIL service to encourage the creation of a reliable and appropriate information repository that can be used by businesses to place trainees, students, and graduates for workplace-based learning (WPBL)
The CACH system is particularly helpful for students who may have missed application deadlines, did not receive any acceptance letters, or who are looking to change courses or institutions.
The system operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and students need to apply as soon as possible to increase their chances of finding an available study opportunity.
Overall, the CACH system aims to improve access to higher education for South African students and help them find alternative study opportunities, which in turn can increase their chances of completing their studies and gaining employment.
For more detailed information on the CACH System, applications and specified deadlines relating to CACH, you can visit our CACH system directory.






