TVET Colleges In South Africa Eligibility

TVET Colleges In South Africa Eligibility

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges in South Africa play an important role in equipping students with practical skills and knowledge that prepare them for the workforce or further education. These institutions provide a broad range of programmes in areas like engineering, business studies, hospitality, agriculture, information technology, and many others. They aim to bridge the gap between academic learning and the practical demands of the job market, making them an increasingly popular option for young people across the country.

One of the key benefits of TVET colleges is their accessibility. These institutions are mapped to accommodate students from different academic backgrounds and skill levels. Generally, learners who have completed Grade 9 or higher are eligible to apply for programmes at TVET colleges. Some courses may require a Grade 12 certificate, especially those at higher levels or those aligned with specific industries. Additionally, certain programmes may have subject-specific requirements, such as mathematics or physical science, depending on the field of study.

TVET colleges also provide opportunities for adult learners, school leavers, and those looking to improve or change their career paths. The National Certificate (Vocational), or NC(V), and NATED (National Accredited Technical Education Diploma) programmes are among the most common pathways. Financial assistance through NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) is available to qualifying students, helping make education more affordable and inclusive.

Read Also: How to Apply to TVET Colleges Online in 2026

Courses offered at TVET College

The institutions provide a broad variety of qualifications that fit into the following categories:

• Education and Development
• Finance, Economics, and Accounting
• Information Technology and Computer Practice
• Mechatronics
• Office Administration
• Tourism
• Civil Engineering and Building Construction
• Electrical Infrastructure Construction
• Engineering and Related Design
• Safety In Society
• National Skill Fund ( NSF Project )
• Automotive Repair and Maintenance
• Fitting
• Mechatronics
• Motor Mechanic
• Wholesale and Retail Operations
• Water and Wastewater Treatment
• Water Reticulation Services
• End-User computing
• General Security Practice
• Sports coaching
• Accounting Technician
• Fibre Processing and Manufacturing ( FP & M SETA)
• Furniture Making
• Health and Wealth (HWSETA)
• Fitting and Turning
• Electrical
• Automotive
• Education, Training and Development Practices ( ETDP-SETA)
• Early Childhood Development
• Wholesale and Retail SETA
• Wholesale and Retail Operations

Admission Requirements for Students when Applying to TVET Colleges

All qualified applicants wanting to study at the College must make sure they have the following available before attempting to apply:

• A unique/valid Email address and cellphone number
• 3 certified copies of the ID of the Parent/Legal Guardian
• 3 certified copies of the ID of the Learner
• South African applicants will need an ID number. Foreign applicants will need their passport numbers.
• Copy of your school qualifications (eg, Senior Certificate)
• A certified copy of your latest results/Grade 9 or Higher;
• Proof of Residence.

Foreign students

• Certified copies of the passport
• SAQA-approved foreign qualifications
• Proof of medical insurance or cover
• Valid study permit

Eligibility Requirements For TVET Colleges In South Africa

To study at a Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college, you must have the following:

• Be at least 16 years old
• NC(V): Have a Grade 9 Qualification or ABET level 4 certificate
• Report 191 NATED: Have a matric certificate or be completing matric

Although the minimum requirement for enrolment at a TVET college is a grade 9 pass, certain courses do require you to have obtained a matric certificate.

TVET colleges are best if you someone who prefers practical learning over theoretical studies. You can apply and start pursuing the career you want after completing a course at a TVET College.

Who qualifies to attend a TVET College?

A significant focus on student employability is one of the benefits of attending a TVET college, with part of the curriculum requiring students to do experiential training (internships and apprenticeships), which can help you develop experience for your CV.

TVET Colleges, which are part of the Higher Education system, admit students who have completed Grades 9, 10, 11, or 12 in high school. University post-graduates can also enrol in TVET College courses to gain further practical experience.

Online Applications Requirement

Contact Information

• Visit: 123 Francis Baard Street, Pretoria, South Africa
• Private Bag X174, Pretoria, 0001​
• Contact Details: 0800 87 2222/+ 27 12 312 5911
• Email: callcentre@dhet.gov.za

For more information, visit the official website of TVET Colleges.

SOME RELATED ARTICLE

• Biggest TVET Colleges In South Africa
• TVET Colleges 2026
• Are TVET Colleges Open For 2026 Applications
• TVET Colleges Online Application Portal