Multiple Universities Now Accepting 2027 Applications via CAO

As the 2027 academic year approaches, several South African universities have officially opened their doors to prospective students. The Central Applications Office (CAO) is once again serving as the primary gateway for thousands of learners seeking placement at public universities, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal and selected institutions beyond the province.

The opening of applications marks the start of one of the busiest periods in the higher education calendar. Grade 12 learners, repeat applicants and gap-year students are now able to submit their forms online, signalling the beginning of a highly competitive admissions cycle.

Major Universities Now Open

Among the institutions now accepting applications is the University of Zululand, which has confirmed that its 2027 application window runs until 31 October 2026. The university has encouraged prospective students to apply early to avoid last-minute system delays.

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has also opened its 2027 admissions process via CAO. DUT remains one of the most sought-after universities of technology in the country, particularly for engineering, health sciences and applied management programmes. Officials warn that popular courses tend to fill up quickly.

Similarly, the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has activated its 2027 application cycle. As one of South Africa’s largest contact universities, UKZN continues to attract tens of thousands of applicants annually across its five campuses.

Also joining the list is the Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), which has opened its 2027 applications through the CAO platform. As a specialised university of technology based in KwaZulu-Natal, MUT offers career-focused qualifications in engineering, management sciences and natural sciences. 

How the CAO System Works

The Central Applications Office simplifies the application process by allowing students to apply to multiple institutions using a single online platform. Through one application fee, students may select up to six programme choices across participating universities and colleges.

This centralised system has significantly streamlined admissions in KwaZulu-Natal and surrounding regions. Applicants can upload certified documents, track their application status and even change programme choices within specified deadlines.

For many families, CAO reduces both administrative stress and financial strain by eliminating the need to pay multiple separate application fees.

Rising Demand for Limited Spaces

South Africa continues to face growing demand for university placements. According to previous higher education reports, public universities collectively receive well over a million applications annually, while available first-year spaces remain limited.

This imbalance has resulted in increased pressure on institutions and fierce competition among applicants. High-demand programmes such as medicine, law, engineering and accounting often close earlier than the general deadlines due to overwhelming interest.

Education analysts have repeatedly warned that while access to higher education is expanding, infrastructure and funding constraints limit the pace at which universities can increase intake numbers.

Early Applications Strongly Advised

Higher education experts are urging prospective students not to delay their submissions. Applying early offers several advantages: it allows institutions more time to assess applications, reduces the risk of missing out on competitive programmes, and gives students adequate time to plan for accommodation and funding.

Learners are also reminded to ensure that all required documents — including certified copies of identity documents and Grade 11 or Grade 12 results — are uploaded correctly to avoid processing delays.

With the 2027 academic year still more than a year away, the opening of applications may seem premature to some. However, in South Africa’s competitive admissions landscape, early preparation is often the difference between securing placement and being placed on a waiting list.

As the 2027 cycle gains momentum, the CAO remains a central pillar in the country’s higher education admissions system — connecting thousands of ambitious learners with institutions that will shape their academic and professional futures.