CAO Courses And Programme List 2026: Complete Guide to Courses, Universities and Requirements
CAO Courses And Programme List 2026. Choosing the right course after Grade 12 is an important step towards building a successful career. In South Africa, students have many study options, including university degrees, diplomas, certificates and career-focused programmes. However, finding the right course and understanding its entry requirements can take time.
The Central Applications Office (CAO) Courses and Programme List makes this process easier by allowing students to search for available programmes at participating universities and private higher education institutions, mainly in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Students can explore different career fields, compare study options and apply for up to six programmes through a single application. Official CAO website
In this guide, you will learn about the CAO programme list, participating institutions, available courses, qualification levels, entry requirements, application fees and the steps to find a suitable programme.
What Is the CAO Courses and Programme List?
The CAO Courses and Programme List is an online directory of study programmes offered by institutions that work with the Central Applications Office. It helps students find courses according to their preferred institution, career direction, campus, examination type and programme name.
Instead of searching through different websites separately, applicants can use the CAO platform to explore many study options in one place.
The programme list includes different qualifications, from certificates and diplomas to undergraduate degrees. The available options depend on the institution and the current application cycle.
The official website also provides a handbook that helps students understand the application process, programme codes, qualification types and important dates.
Official programme search: Visit the CAO Programme List.
Universities and Colleges Participating in CAO
The CAO works with public universities and partner private higher education institutions. These institutions offer programmes in different academic and career fields.
Public Universities
The main public universities listed through the CAO include:
| University | Abbreviation |
|---|---|
| Durban University of Technology | DUT |
| Mangosuthu University of Technology | MUT |
| University of KwaZulu-Natal | UKZN |
| University of Zululand | UNIZULU |
Each university offers its own courses, entry requirements, campuses and admission process. Students should check the CAO programme listing and the institution’s official website before choosing a course.
Private Colleges and Higher Education Institutions
The CAO programme list also includes partner private institutions. Examples mentioned in the available listings include:
- MANCOSA
- Eduvos
- STADIO
- Richfield
- Berea Technical College
The availability of programmes may change between application cycles. Therefore, students should use the current CAO programme search to confirm whether a particular institution and course are available.
CAO Courses and Programme List by Career Field
One of the most useful features of the CAO website is the option to search for courses according to a career direction. This helps students who know the type of work they want to do but have not yet selected a specific qualification.
Below are some major study fields to explore.
1. Accounting, Finance and Administration
Students interested in money management, business records, banking and financial planning can explore accounting and finance-related programmes.
Possible areas of study include:
- Accounting
- Financial Management
- Business Administration
- Public Management
- Office Administration
- Financial Accounting
These courses can help students develop skills in financial records, budgeting, business operations and administration. The exact programmes and entry requirements depend on the institution.
2. Engineering and Technology
Engineering courses are suitable for students who enjoy mathematics, problem-solving, technology and practical work.
Related study areas may include:
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Engineering-related diplomas
Some engineering programmes require specific school subjects, including Mathematics and Physical Sciences. Applicants should check the subject and mark requirements for each course.
3. Information Technology (IT)
Information Technology is another popular field for students interested in computers, software and digital systems.
Possible study areas include:
- Information Technology
- Computer Science
- Software Development
- Information Systems
- Computer Networks
- Business Information Systems
The course structure varies between institutions. Some programmes focus on programming and technical skills, while others combine technology with business management.
4. Business Management and Human Resources
Business-related programmes can help students prepare for roles in companies, organisations and public institutions.
Courses may include:
- Business Management
- Human Resource Management
- Marketing
- Supply Chain Management
- Operations Management
- Public Management
These programmes may cover leadership, communication, planning, business operations and employee management.
5. Health Sciences and Medical Programmes
Students interested in healthcare can search for available programmes in medical and health-related fields.
Possible areas include:
- Nursing
- Medical Laboratory Sciences
- Emergency Medical Care
- Radiography
- Environmental Health
- Other healthcare-related qualifications
Not every institution offers all these programmes through CAO. Some health courses also have strict academic requirements, limited places or additional selection procedures.
Always confirm the exact course title, campus and entry requirements before applying.
6. Education and Humanities
Education and humanities programmes suit students interested in teaching, languages, social studies and human development.
Study areas may include:
- Education
- Teaching-related programmes
- Psychology-related studies
- Sociology
- Languages
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
Applicants should check whether a programme leads to a specific professional qualification and whether further study is needed for their intended career.
7. Law and Social Sciences
Students interested in legal systems, society, public services and human rights can explore law and social science programmes.
Possible areas include:
- Law
- Legal Studies
- Social Work
- Political Science
- Public Administration
- Sociology
The qualifications offered and their professional outcomes vary. For example, completing a law-related course does not automatically mean that a person can practise as a lawyer.
8. Agriculture and Science
Science and agriculture programmes are useful for students interested in research, the natural environment, farming and scientific work.
Related fields may include:
- Agricultural Studies
- Biological Sciences
- Environmental Science
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Other science-based programmes
Some courses require specific science subjects at school level.
9. Tourism, Hospitality and Design
Students who enjoy travel, customer service, creative work or event planning can explore tourism, hospitality and design programmes.
Examples include:
- Tourism Management
- Hospitality Management
- Event Management
- Visual Arts
- Design-related programmes
These programmes may combine classroom learning with practical training, depending on the qualification.
Important: The examples above describe broad study fields, not a guarantee that every named course is available through CAO in the current cycle. Use the official programme list to confirm the actual options.
Types of Qualifications Available Through CAO
The CAO programme list includes different qualification levels. Understanding these levels can help you choose a course that matches your education, career plans and academic results.
| Qualification type | What it generally offers |
|---|---|
| Higher Certificate | A focused qualification that develops basic knowledge and practical skills in a specific field. |
| Shorter Courses | Short study options where offered, depending on the institution and programme. |
| NC(V) | National Certificate (Vocational) programmes offered at relevant institutions. |
| NATED / Report 191 | Certificate and diploma pathways in approved fields. |
| Diploma | Career-focused study that combines subject knowledge with practical skills. |
| Advanced Diploma | Further study that builds on a suitable prior qualification. |
| Bachelor’s Degree | Undergraduate study that provides a broader and deeper understanding of a subject. |
The qualification level alone does not tell you whether you qualify for admission. Each programme has its own entry rules, and some qualifications require a specific previous certificate or diploma.
CAO Entry Requirements: What Students Should Know
Entry requirements are among the most important details to check before choosing a course. Meeting the minimum requirements allows your application to be considered, but it does not guarantee admission.
Institutions may receive more applications than they have available places. They can also apply additional selection rules for certain programmes.
Before applying, check the following:
- Examination type: Confirm whether the programme accepts your qualification, such as the National Senior Certificate (NSC) or another recognised school-leaving qualification.
- Required subjects: Some courses require Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences or other specific subjects.
- Minimum marks: Check the minimum marks required for each subject.
- Admission points: Some programmes use an admission points score or another points-based selection method.
- Additional requirements: Certain courses may have further selection steps or specific conditions.
- Campus: Make sure the programme is offered at the campus you want to attend.
International applicants should also check the requirements for their qualifications and any additional documents that may be needed.
How to Search the CAO Courses and Programme List
You can use the official website to search for courses by name, institution, career direction and other available filters.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the official CAO website
Open www.cao.ac.za and look for the available programmes section.
Step 2: Open the Programme List
Select the programme list option from the website’s navigation menu.
Step 3: Choose your search method
If you know the course name, enter it in the programme name field. If you are unsure what to study, use the available filters to explore programmes by institution, faculty, campus or career direction.
Step 4: Select an institution
Choose a specific institution if you already have a preference. Otherwise, search across the available institutions to compare your options.
Step 5: Review the search results
The website displays matching programmes. Open the details for the programme you are interested in.
Step 6: Check entry requirements
Select the correct examination type and review the minimum requirements and points information shown for the course.
Step 7: Record the programme details
Keep the programme name, programme code, institution, campus and entry requirements together. This will help you make the right choices when completing your application.
You can begin your search here: CAO Programme Search.
How to Use the CAO Handbook PDF
The CAO Handbook is another useful resource for students who want to explore courses in detail.
The handbook organises programme choices according to career directions and qualification levels. Its programme choice list uses blue headings for programmes at universities and universities of technology and orange headings for programmes at private colleges.
To use the handbook:
- Visit the official CAO website.
- Open the current entry-year handbook.
- Read the sections covering study options and programme choices.
- Find your preferred career direction or subject area in the index.
- Open the relevant pages and compare the listed courses.
- Check the programme code, institution and entry requirements.
- Confirm the details on the live CAO website before applying.
The handbook is useful for comparing options, but the online programme list should also be checked because institutions may update course availability or entry requirements during an application cycle.
How Many Courses Can You Choose Through CAO?
Applicants can select up to six programme choices using one CAO application and paying the relevant administration fee.
These choices can be a combination of eligible programmes at participating member and partner institutions. You should not assume that selecting six courses guarantees six offers or that every choice has the same entry requirements.
When deciding on your six choices, consider the following approach:
- Choose courses that match your interests and long-term career plans.
- Check the entry requirements for every programme separately.
- Include options for which your subjects and marks are suitable.
- Compare course content, location and qualification level.
- Arrange your choices carefully according to your preferences.
The CAO process allows you to submit a Change of Mind request if you later need to change or reorder programme choices. A fee applies, and you must follow the current instructions carefully. Official CAO application information.
How to Apply for CAO Courses Online
After finding your preferred courses, you can complete your application through the official website.
Follow these general steps:
- Visit www.cao.ac.za and select the Apply option.
- Enter your South African ID number or passport number as requested.
- Complete the personal and educational details.
- Add your selected programmes using the programme search or programme codes.
- Review your personal information and programme choices.
- Submit the application using the Process My Application option.
- Pay the applicable administration fee.
- Upload the required supporting documents through the official website.
- Keep your CAO number and login details safe.
- Use the Check My Application service to follow your application progress.
Make sure you complete the full process. Starting an application or receiving an application number does not necessarily mean that every required step has been completed.
CAO requires supporting documents to be uploaded through its website rather than submitted as paper copies or ordinary email attachments. Follow the current instructions for the documents required in your situation.
CAO Application Fees and Important Dates
The administration fee depends on the entry year, application timing and applicant category. Fees can change, so always confirm the current amount before making a payment.
For January 2027 entry, the published CAO fee information lists the following amounts:
| Payment timing | South African citizens | International applicants |
|---|---|---|
| Fee received on or before 31 October 2026 | R250 | R300 |
| Fee received on or after 1 November 2026 | R470 | R580 |
These figures relate to the published January 2027 entry fee schedule. Other entry terms may have different dates or charges. A Change of Mind request has a separate administration fee, listed as R140 in the current CAO information.
Remember these important points:
- Submit your application and required documents as early as possible.
- Check the closing date for each programme you select.
- Pay the correct amount using the payment methods approved by CAO.
- Keep your payment confirmation and application details.
- Do not assume that paying the fee guarantees admission.
You can check the latest details in the official CAO fee and application information.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing CAO Courses
Students can reduce problems by checking their choices before submitting an application.
1. Choosing a course without checking entry requirements
A course may sound suitable but require subjects or marks you do not have. Always read the official requirements.
2. Selecting the wrong programme code
Similar course names may refer to different qualifications, institutions or campuses. Confirm the code before adding a choice.
3. Ignoring application deadlines
Some programmes close earlier than others. Check the closing date for every selected course.
4. Assuming the minimum requirements guarantee admission
Meeting the minimum requirements means your application may be considered. The institution makes the final admission decision.
5. Forgetting to upload documents or pay the fee
An incomplete application can delay consideration. Check your application status and confirm that all required steps have been completed.
6. Using outdated programme information
A handbook may not show every change made during the year. Confirm availability and requirements through the current online programme list.
Frequently Asked Questions About CAO Courses and Programme List
1. What is the official CAO programme list website?
The official website is www.cao.ac.za. Open the Programmes or Available Programmes section to search for courses.
2. How many programmes can I select through CAO?
You can select up to six programme choices using one application and the applicable administration fee.
3. Can I apply to more than one university through CAO?
Yes. Your choices can include eligible programmes at participating member and partner institutions, subject to the current CAO rules.
4. Does CAO offer courses in Accounting and IT?
The programme list includes a range of career directions, including business-related and information technology fields. The exact courses available depend on the institution and application cycle.
5. Can I search for courses using my Grade 12 subjects?
Yes. The CAO website provides a Study Options for Me tool that can help learners explore possible courses based on their school subjects and results.
6. Where can I find CAO course entry requirements?
Search for the programme on the official website, select it and check the requirements for your examination type. The current handbook is another useful reference.
7. Can I change my programme choices after applying?
CAO provides an online Change of Mind process. A separate fee applies, and you should carefully review the instructions because submitting new choices may replace your existing choices unless you add the ones you want to keep.
8. Does meeting the entry requirements guarantee admission?
No. Admission depends on the institution’s selection process, available places and any additional programme requirements.
Final Thoughts
The CAO Courses and Programme List is a helpful starting point for students in South Africa who want to compare university and private higher education options. It allows applicants to explore fields such as accounting, engineering, information technology, healthcare, education, law, business and tourism in one place.
Before applying, take time to compare courses, check your Grade 12 subjects and marks, confirm programme codes and review the application deadlines. Use the current CAO handbook alongside the live programme list, as course availability and entry requirements can change.
Start with the official CAO Programme List, shortlist suitable options and select up to six programmes that match your interests and qualifications. Careful planning can help you make a more informed decision about your next step in education.
