CAO Status Check: Guide to Your University Application Status

The Central Applications Office (CAO) simplifies the process of applying to multiple South African universities and TVET colleges. Checking your CAO application status regularly is essential to track your progress and avoid missing deadlines or required actions.

This guide provides a simple, clear, and step-by-step walkthrough on how to check your CAO status online.

Why You Must Check Your CAO Status

You need to check your status to stay informed about your application’s progress with the institutions you chose.

• Track Progress: Follow your application in real time from submission to final decision.
• Receive Decisions: Get prompt updates on admission offers or regrets.
• Identify Missing Items: Check if the universities require any additional documents from you.
• Accept Offers: Respond to a firm offer promptly to secure your placement.

Step-by-Step: How to Check Your CAO Status Online

Follow these direct steps to log in and view the outcome of your application.

1. Visit the Official CAO Website
   Go to the official Central Applications Office website: www.cao.ac.za.
2. Navigate to “Check My Application”
   Look for the “Check My Application” or “My Application” button or link on the homepage and click it.
3. Log In to Your Profile
   You will need to provide your unique details to access your application dashboard.
   • Enter your CAO Number (the reference number you received upon application).
   • Enter your Password.
   If you have forgotten your password or application number, look for the recovery links on the login page. You will typically use your ID or Passport number to retrieve them.
4. View Your Application Status
   Once logged in, you will see a summary of your application and the current status for each program you applied for.

Understanding Your CAO Application Status

The status listed on your dashboard tells you exactly where your application is in the selection process. Here are the most common statuses and what they mean:

CAO Status	Meaning
Waiting for a Decision	The institution has received your application but has not yet considered it. This is the default status for on-time applications.
Awaiting Results	The institution is waiting for further results (like final Matric or Trial results) before making a decision.
Conditional Offer	The institution will accept you provided that you meet specific final requirements (e.g., achieving certain Matric marks).
Firm Offer	You are offered a guaranteed place by the institution. You must formally accept this offer to secure your spot.
Waitlisted / Standby	Your application is under strong consideration, but a final decision is pending space availability. You must wait.
Regret Unsuccessful	The institution has decided not to offer you a place for that specific program.
Late Application	Your application was received after the program’s closing date. It will be considered according to the institution’s late application policy.

Steps To Take After Checking Your Status

The most important step is to take action based on the decision you receive.

If You Get a Firm Offer

• Accept your offer on the CAO system immediately. Do not delay, as offers expire.
• Follow any additional instructions from the university, such as paying a deposit or completing an online registration process.
• Prepare for your registration and orientation at the campus.

If You are Waitlisted

• Keep checking your CAO and your email for updates.
• Do not lose hope; students are often admitted from the waitlist if spaces become available.
• Consider exploring backup plans or other programs.

If You Receive a Regret

• Consider alternative programs at other universities or TVET colleges.
• Look into the possibility of a “Change of Mind” request on the CAO portal to select an alternative program if the deadline allows.
• Check if you meet the requirements to reapply for the next academic year.

CAO Contact Information

If you cannot check your status, have an issue with your login, or need clarity on a decision, contact the CAO directly for assistance.

Detail	Information
Website	www.cao.ac.za
Call Center	031 268 4444 or 086 0860 226
Email	[email protected]
Physical Address	Gate 11, Central Services Complex – UKZN, Mary Thiphe Street (Cato Manor Road), Cato Manor, Durban

Important Note: The CAO handles the application processing, but the decision to admit a student is made entirely by the university itself. For specific questions about why you were accepted, waitlisted, or regretted, you must contact the institution’s admissions office.