CACH 2026 is Closed: Use This New System Instead (CAS Guide)

Are you searching for the “CACH 2026 login” or trying to sign up for the Central Applications Clearing House? Stop looking. The system has changed.

If you are part of the Class of 2025 and are currently sitting without a university offer, you might be panicking. In previous years, students were told to “Register on CACH.”

But for the 2026 academic year, the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) has moved towards a more integrated system: the Central Application Service (CAS).

Here is everything you need to know about the new system, how to get your name on the list using WhatsApp, and how to secure a space before universities close their doors for good.

CACH vs. CAS: What is the Difference?

For over a decade, CACH (Central Applications Clearing House) was the “safety net” for students who qualified for university but didn’t apply on time or were rejected.

However, the government is transitioning to CAS (Central Application Service).

• The Old Way (CACH): A temporary list created in January for late applications.
• The New Way (CAS): A permanent, centralized system that holds your data and shares it with all Universities, TVET Colleges, and SETAs simultaneously.

The good news? The service still works. It is actually better. But if you keep searching for old 2024/2025 links, you might miss the window.

Who Should Register on CAS for 2026?

You should only register on this system if you meet all of the following criteria:

1. You have a Grade 12 National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Senior Certificate.
2. You have NOT received an offer from any university or college for 2026.
3. You are willing to study at a TVET College or participate in a Learnership if university space is full.

If you already have an offer from a university but you “don’t like it,” do not use CAS. This system is strictly for students who have nowhere else to go.

How to Register for Placement (Step-by-Step)

The Department has made it easier to sign up this year. You don’t even need a computer; you can do it entirely from your phone.

Method 1: The CAS WhatsApp Bot (Fastest)

This is the quickest way to get your name into the pot for 2026.

1. Save this number to your contacts: 081 308 4196 (Check the official DHET social pages to verify as numbers can sometimes update annually).
2. Open WhatsApp and send the message: “Hi” or “Hello”.
3. The bot will respond with a menu. Select “Sign Up” or “Register”.
4. Enter your ID Number and your Exam Number (from your Matric certificate) when requested.
5. Confirm your details (Name, Surname, and Province).
6. Important: You will be asked to consent to share your details with institutions. You MUST say “Yes” or universities cannot see your profile.

Method 2: The USSD Code (No Data Needed)

If you don’t have data, you can use the USSD code. This works on any phone.

1. Dial *134*225#
2. Follow the prompts on the screen.
3. Enter your ID number.
4. Confirm your marks and study preferences.

Method 3: The Online Portal

If you prefer using a browser, you can visit the official portal.

• Website: cach.cas.ac.za
• Action: Go to “Learner Registration.”

What Happens After You Register?

This is where many students get confused. CAS is not a university. They do not accept you.

Think of CAS as a “dating app” for education:

1. You upload your profile (Results).
2. Universities and TVET colleges “swipe” through the database looking for students with your specific marks.
3. If a university likes your marks, THEY will contact YOU.

Note: You will not receive an immediate acceptance. You must keep your phone on and check your SMSs daily.

FAQ: Common Questions for 2026

Q: Is the CACH/CAS service free?

A: Yes, it is a 100% free government service. Do not pay anyone who claims they can “fast track” your application.

Q: Can I choose which university I want?

A: No. On CAS, you cannot pick a specific university (like UJ or Wits). You can only choose a study field (e.g., “Engineering” or “Teaching”). Any institution with space in that field can contact you.

Q: When does the system close?

A: The system typically stays open until 31 March 2026, but most universities fill their spaces by mid-February. You need to register TODAY.

Do not wait. The “Late Application” window is closing fast.

• If you failed Matric: Register for the Supplementary Exam (Deadline Feb 6).
• If you passed but have no space: Register on CAS immediately.