Key Takeaways: CACH Fast Facts
- Status: Opening Soon (Late January 2026)
- Closing Date: Typically 31 March 2026.
- Cost: FREE.
- Who is it for? Students with a Matric pass who have NO offers from any institution.
- Official Link: cach.cas.ac.za
It is a nightmare scenario: You worked hard, you got the Bachelor’s or Diploma pass you needed, but your phone is silent. No acceptance SMSs. No emails. Or perhaps you didn’t apply at all last year because you weren’t sure you would pass.
In the past, this meant walking from university to university, standing in long lines hoping for a “Walk-In” spot. In 2026, that system is gone. Most universities (like UJ, Wits, and UKZN) do not allow physical walk-ins.
Instead, the Department of Higher Education uses a digital system called CACH (Central Applications Clearing House). Think of it as a “dating app” for universities: You put your profile in, and institutions with empty seats come looking for you.
Here is how to sign up and ensure you don’t spend 2026 sitting on the couch.
What is CACH?
The Central Applications Clearing House (CACH) is a government service designed to match unplaced students with available spaces at:
- Universities
- Universities of Technology
- TVET Colleges
- SETA Learnerships
It acts as a referral service. Instead of applying to 20 different colleges, you register on CACH once. Institutions that still have space in specific courses (e.g., if UWC has 5 seats left in BSc Nursing) check the CACH database to find students who meet the criteria.
Who Should Sign Up?
You should register on CACH if:
- You applied late: You missed the 2025 deadlines.
- You were rejected: You applied, but your marks weren’t good enough for your first choice, and now you have no offers.
- You did better than expected: You didn’t think you would qualify for university, so you didn’t apply, but your final results are great.
Who should NOT sign up?
- If you have already been accepted at a university (even if it’s your second choice), do not use CACH. It is strictly for unplaced students.
- If you failed Matric (Grade 12). You must pass to be in the system.
How to Register for CACH 2026 (Step-by-Step)
The system typically goes live a few days after the Matric Results release.
Step 1: Get Your Details Ready
You do not need to upload documents immediately, but you need your:
- ID Number.
- Exam Number (from your Statement of Results).
- Cell phone number (This is crucial—it’s how they contact you).
- Valid email address.
Step 2: Use the USSD or WhatsApp Method
If you don’t have data, you can start the process on your phone.
- USSD: Dial
*134*225#(Standard rates apply). - WhatsApp: Send a message saying “Hello” to 078 776 8660.
- The Chatbot (named “Khetiwe”) will guide you through capturing your name and ID.
Step 3: Complete Online
For the best results, log in to the website to verify your details.
- Go to <a href=”https://cach.cas.ac.za” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer”>cach.cas.ac.za</a>.
- Enter your ID and create a password.
- Important: You will be asked to select your “Field of Interest” (e.g., Engineering, Arts, Business). Be broad here. If you only select “Medicine,” your chances are low. If you select “Health Sciences,” you might get an offer for Nursing or Radiography.
What Happens After You Register?
This is the hard part: You wait.
CACH is not an instant application. You do not get an “Acceptance Letter” from CACH.
- Data Sharing: CACH takes your Grade 12 results and shares them with every public institution in South Africa.
- The Match: If a university (e.g., CUT or MUT) sees your marks and has space, THEY will contact YOU.
- The Offer: You will receive an SMS directly from the university offering you a spot.
- Acceptance: You must reply to that university immediately (usually within 3 days) to secure the seat.
Timing:
Offers usually start coming in from early February and can continue until mid-March.
CACH vs. Late Applications
Many students confuse these two.
- Late Applications: This is when a specific university (e.g., UNISA) opens its own portal for you to apply directly to them. This is active and requires you to pay an application fee.
- CACH: This is a passive “pool.” You register once for free, and wait to be picked.
Strategy:
Do BOTH. Register on CACH immediately. Then, check our list of Universities Open for Late Applications and apply directly to them as well.
FAQ: Troubleshooting
Q: I registered on CACH but haven’t heard anything.
A: This means no university has selected you yet. This often happens if your chosen field (like Law or Psychology) is full. Log in and broaden your study fields to increase your chances.
Q: Can I reject a CACH offer?
A: Yes. If a college offers you a spot in a course you hate, you don’t have to take it. But be careful—you might not get another offer.
Q: Is CACH only for Universities?
A: No. CACH also links you to SETA Learnerships (paid apprenticeships) and TVET Colleges. If you don’t get a degree offer, look out for SMSs offering trade skills.
Conclusion: It’s Not Too Late
Being unplaced in January is scary, but the system is designed to fill every empty seat in the country. CACH is your safety net.
Sign up today. Keep your phone charged. Watch your SMS inbox like a hawk. One message can change your entire year.
Disclaimer: ApsScore.com is an independent information provider. The Central Applications Clearing House is a government service managed by the Department of Higher Education and Training.