Vocational education
TVET colleges: a pathway worth knowing
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges offer practical qualifications that lead directly into employment or further study. TVET is not a second choice. It is a deliberate pathway to a skilled and employed career.
What TVET offers
Practical qualifications for real careers
TVET colleges offer National Certificate Vocational (NCV) and Report 191 (NATED) programmes across a wide range of fields. Qualifications are registered with the QCTO and recognised by employers across South Africa.
Many TVET programmes include practical workplace experience, which makes graduates employment-ready on completion. TVET qualifications can also lead into university programmes through articulation agreements.
Key TVET programme areas
- Engineering and technology
- Business, commerce and management
- Hospitality and tourism
- Information technology
- Health and social care
- Agriculture
- Education and development
Two-year vocational qualification
Offered at NQF levels 2, 3 and 4. Entry requires a Grade 9 pass. NCV programmes are field-specific and include workplace experience components.
Engineering and business studies
Offered at N1 to N6 level. N1–N3 leads to a trade certificate. N4–N6 leads to a National Diploma when combined with 18 months of workplace experience.
Why consider TVET?
Shorter programmes
Many TVET programmes are two to three years. Learners enter the workforce faster than through a four-year university degree.
High demand for artisans
South Africa has a critical shortage of qualified artisans. Electricians, plumbers, welders and millwrights are in extremely high demand.
Funding is available
TVET college students at public institutions are eligible for NSFAS funding. Bursaries from SETAs are also available for many TVET programmes.
Pathways to university
An N6 certificate with workplace experience is equivalent to a National Diploma and can lead into degree programmes at some universities of technology.
Accessible across the country
There are 50 public TVET colleges with campuses across all nine provinces, making TVET accessible in areas where universities are not nearby.
Earn while you learn
Many TVET qualifications can be completed through a learnership, where you are employed and receive a monthly stipend while studying.
How to apply
Applying to a TVET college
Choose your programme and campus
Research the NCV or NATED programme that matches your interests. Find your nearest TVET campus at www.dhet.gov.za.
Check entry requirements
NCV programmes require a Grade 9 pass. NATED N1 requires a Grade 9 pass. N4 and above typically require a matric certificate.
Apply at the college
Visit the campus directly or check whether online applications are available. Bring your ID, school reports and matric certificate if applicable.
Apply for NSFAS funding
Apply for NSFAS at my.nsfas.org.za at the same time as your college application. NSFAS funds eligible TVET students.
Confirm your enrolment
Once accepted, confirm your registration. Collect your timetable and find out where your classes will be held.
Continue exploring
Explore related guides
Career guidance
Find the pathway that fits you best.
University applications
Compare university and TVET options.
NSFAS guide
Funding available for TVET students too.
Bursaries
Bursaries for trade and vocational study.
All funding options
Every option in one place.
Full resource hub
All guides in one place.