The Central Applications Office (CAO) is the body that handles applications for multiple higher education institutions in South Africa. Missing the initial application deadline doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve lost your chance to apply. If you’re looking for information on the CAO late application, here’s a detailed guide to help you understand the process, fees, and what you need to know.
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What Is a CAO Late Application?
A CAO late application is any application submitted after the programme closing date for a specific institution or course. However, institutions may still consider these late applications based on the availability of space and other factors. The earlier you submit, the better your chances, as institutions give priority to on-time applications.
Steps to Apply for a Late Application
- Check Programme Availability: Before applying, check on the CAO website (www.cao.ac.za) to see if the programme you’re interested in is still accepting applications. Some programmes may explicitly state that no late applications will be considered, while others might still have spots available.
- Submit Your Application: You can apply online by visiting the CAO website. Make sure you have your ID number, school results, and other required documents ready. Fill out the application form and ensure you submit all the necessary details.
- Pay the Application Fee: The on-time administration fee is still applicable until 31 October for first semester programmes and 31 May for second semester programmes. After these dates, the late administration fee kicks in, which is slightly higher.
Key Deadlines for Late Applications
- 1 November: This is when the late administration fee comes into effect for first semester programmes.
- 1 June: This is when the late fee applies for second semester programmes.
It’s important to apply as soon as possible because late applications are only considered if there are still spots available after all on-time applications have been reviewed.
Late Application Fees
- If you submit your application after 31 October (for the 1st semester) or after 31 May (for the 2nd semester), you’ll need to pay a late administration fee.
You can pay through EasyPay, online at the CAO website, or at their offices (no cash accepted). Be sure to use the correct CAO number when making payments.
Programme Closing Dates and Consideration
Each programme has its own closing date, and after that date, any application submitted is considered late. While late applications may still be processed, they are considered after all on-time applications, and only if places are available.
If you’re unsure whether a programme is still open for late applications, check the CAO website or call the CAO office at 031 268 4444 for guidance.
Things to Remember for CAO Late Applications
- Valid Application: Your application is only considered valid once all required documents, such as programme choices, payment, and signed declarations, are submitted. Without these, your application won’t be processed.
- Update Your Information: Make sure you provide a valid email address and cell phone number. All communication, including offers and notifications, will be sent via SMS or email.
- Acknowledgement of Application: After submitting your late application, you should receive an Acknowledgement Letter from the CAO within four weeks. If you don’t, follow up with the CAO office to confirm they’ve received your application.
Changing Your Mind After Applying
If you need to change your programme choices or rearrange the order of your choices after submitting your late application, you can do so by submitting a Change of Mind (COM) Request online. Each COM request requires an additional fee, and you can make changes up until a certain deadline.
Conclusion
Applying late doesn’t mean your chances are gone. The CAO late application process offers a second opportunity to apply for higher education, but you need to act quickly and ensure all your documents and payments are submitted correctly. Always check availability before applying and stay informed of any deadlines to avoid missing out on your future opportunities.
For more detailed information or to start your application, visit the CAO website at www.cao.ac.za.
