2.
Finding Available Programmes
Contents
2.1 How to use the Programme List ............................................................................................ 1
2.2 What are Alternative Access Route Programmes (also called Access Routes)? ........................ 1
2.3 Second Chance Application ................................................................................................. 1
2.4 I need assistance deciding what to study OR I need to know for which programmes I meet the
entry requirements? .................................................................................................................. 2
2.5 Is there someone that can assist me further with career advice? ............................................. 2
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2.1 How to use the Programme List
Select the ‘Available Programmes’ icon on our homepage.
Select ‘Programme List’ from the left navigation bar to view the programmes available by using the drop-
down menu options for institution/faculty/campus or career direction.
2.1.1 If you know the programme name only
(a) Enter the ‘Programme Name’ in field provided on screen.
(b) Select a specific institution if you have a preference or leave ‘All Institutions’ to see which institutions offer
the programme.
(c) Click on ‘Search’
(d) You will be presented with the results of your search in a grid at the bottom of the screen.
(e) Click on ‘Select’ to view programme information and enter your exam type e.g., National Senior Certificate
(NSC) or Senior Certificate (SC) to view the Entry Requirements and Points required.
2.1.2 If you don’t know the programme code or name and want to see what programmes are available:
(a) Use the search filters in the Programme list page to search by institution, faculty, campus, programme, etc.
(b) Enter your exam type e.g., National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Senior Certificate (SC)
(c) Click on ‘Submit’
(d) You will be presented with the results of your search in a grid at the bottom of the screen.
(e) Click on ‘Select’ to view the entry requirements of the programme you selected.
2.2 What are Alternative Access Route Programmes (also called Access Routes)?
An access route is an alternative study route that may lead to your original mainstream programme of
study.
2.2.1 Access Route Programmes are spread over a longer period than normal and are provided to help applicants
who may not meet the entry requirements for specific degrees and diplomas.
2.2.2 Some programmes don’t have access routes but offer three- and four-year options based on the applicant’s
results in the NSC and in selection tests. These programmes are indicated by ‘3/4 years’ in the Programme
Choice List under ‘duration’.
2.2.3 For a list of ‘Alternative Access Route Programmes’ view the E-book or PDF Version of the CAO 2026 Entry
Handbook, located on our homepage under ‘Important Notices and News’ (page 212-215)
2.3 Second Chance Application
If after applying you are unsuccessful with any of your programme choices, you may complete and submit
a ‘Change of Mind’ (COM). This is referred to as a second chance application.
2.3.1 The COM must be completed online.
2.3.2 Your choices are immediately available to the institutions to which you have applied when received with the
full COM administration fee.
2.3.3 COMS completed online and paid via EasyPay are processed the day after receipt of the COM
administration fee.
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2.4 I need assistance deciding what to study OR I need to know for which programmes I meet the
entry requirements?
2.4.1 Select the ‘Don’t Know What to Study’ icon on the Home Page
2.4.2 Click on ‘Study Options for Me’ from the menu bar on the left of the screen.
2.4.3 You will be presented with two options, if you select:
a) I am a learner looking for help with subject choices.
✓ Click ‘Submit’ to proceed.
✓ Select your Exam Type.
✓ Search and Add your chosen seven school subjects as per the guidelines provided on the webpage
Study Options for me – Subject Selection – ‘How to Enter your Subjects:’
✓ Once all seven school subjects have been selected, select the following to continue: -
▪ Select the type of institution you wish to study at
▪ Select which programmes you would like to see and click ‘Continue’.
This option will assist learners in Grade 9 looking for assistance with subject selection.
b) I already know my school results or the subjects I am writing in Grade 12
✓ Click ‘Submit’ to proceed.
✓ Select your relevant South African School leaving exam and click ‘Next’.
✓ Search and Add your chosen seven school subjects and pass levels as per the guidelines provided on
the webpage Study Options for me – Subject Selection – ‘How to Enter your Subjects:’
✓ Once all seven school subjects have been selected, select the following to continue: -
▪ Select the level of study you qualify for as indicated on your certificate or statement of results.
▪ Select the type of institution you wish to study at
▪ Select which programmes you would like to see and click ‘Continue’.
2.4.4 You will now be presented with a list of career directions.
Click ‘Select’ to view programmes in a Career Direction that may be suitable for you.
2.5 Is there someone that can assist me further with career advice?
The Department of Higher Education and Training has a Career Advice Service where fully qualified career
advisors provide career information, guidance, and advice.
The National Career Advice Portal (NCAP) is an online self-help tool designed to facilitate informed career and
study decisions. NCAP is an initiative of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
Contact them by:
a) Sending a text message or Please Call Me to 072 204 5056 OR
b) Email them at careerhelp@[Link]
c) OR Call their helpline on 086 999 0123.