For many South African matriculants, the dream of higher education remains a significant milestone. However, not all students secure a university or TVET college placement in the initial rounds. If you’re among those left without a study opportunity, don’t despair—there’s still hope! The Central Application Clearing House (CACH) is here to help you secure a placement for the 2025 academic year.

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What is CACH?

The Central Application Clearing House (CACH) is a government initiative designed to connect prospective students with higher education institutions across South Africa. This platform offers a second chance for matriculants who missed initial university or college placement deadlines or who are exploring alternative study options.

CACH simplifies the process by matching students’ academic achievements and preferences with institutions that still have available spaces. This service is entirely free of charge and aims to assist students in achieving their academic aspirations.

How Does CACH Work?

The Central Application Clearing House operates by receiving your National Senior Certificate (NSC) exam results directly from the Department of Basic Education. Participating institutions and Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) then use the CACH database to identify potential candidates.

If you meet the entry requirements for an available program, the institution will contact you directly once you’ve accepted their offer on the CACH platform. While CACH cannot guarantee placement, it significantly increases your visibility to institutions actively seeking students.

Key Details About CACH 2025

• Application Period: Open from 8:00 AM on 20 January 2025 to 31 March 2025.
• Eligibility: Students who completed Grade 12 from 2000 onwards.
• No Supporting Documents Needed: Your matric results are automatically shared with CACH by the Department of Basic Education.
• Free Service: There are no costs involved in registering or using the platform.

How to Sign Up for CACH

Follow these simple steps to register:

1. Visit the Official Website: Access the CACH platform via this link.
2. Find the Sign-Up Section: Locate the registration form on the homepage.
3. Fill in Your Details: Provide accurate personal and academic information in the registration form.
4. Wait for Contact: Institutions will reach out to you directly if you meet the criteria for available programs.

Why Choose CACH?

The Central Application Clearing House offers an invaluable opportunity for students who:

• Did not receive placement offers from universities or colleges during the initial application rounds.
• Are seeking alternative academic programs.
• Want to explore opportunities across a wide range of institutions in the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) system.

Things to Keep in Mind

While CACH is a fantastic resource, it’s important to note that placement is not guaranteed. The platform’s purpose is to provide your information to institutions with available spaces and facilitate connections. Students are encouraged to explore additional opportunities independently while using CACH.

Benefits of Using CACH

• Wider Opportunities: Gain access to a variety of universities, TVET colleges, and SETA programs.
• Ease of Use: The platform is user-friendly and requires minimal documentation.
• Time-Saving: Institutions contact you directly, saving you the hassle of individually applying to multiple institutions.
• No Cost: CACH is free for all eligible applicants.

Final Thoughts

Missing out on university or college placement doesn’t have to mean the end of your academic journey. With the CACH platform, you have a chance to explore exciting opportunities and secure your future. Don’t wait—register on the CACH platform today and take the first step toward achieving your dreams.

CACH is open until 31 March 2025, so act quickly to maximize your chances of finding the right academic fit.