Quick Answer: NATED Registration Requirements
NATED programmes, also referred to as Report 191, run from N1 to N6 at public TVET colleges. They divide into two streams that work quite differently: engineering studies at N1 to N3, and business and general studies at N4 to N6.
Entry requirements depend on which stream and level you are joining. The engineering stream can normally be entered after Grade 9 with the relevant subjects, while N4 and above normally require Grade 12 or an equivalent prior qualification. Requirements.co.za is an independent information website. It is not a college or an education department and does not process registrations.
Who This Requirement Applies To
This guide is for anyone considering a NATED programme, and for those comparing it with the NCV route.
For NCV, see NCV Registration Requirements. For the N4 entry point specifically, see N4 Registration Requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
Establish your stream and level first, because the two streams have different entry points, different study patterns and different certification routes.
Applicant type
- Engineering studies, N1 to N3. Normally entered after Grade 9 with relevant subjects such as mathematics and physical science. Colleges set the specific requirement per trade.
- Business and general studies, N4 to N6. Normally require Grade 12 or an equivalent recognised qualification.
- Progression between levels. Each level normally requires passing the preceding one.
- Study pattern. The engineering stream commonly runs on trimesters and the business stream on semesters, so registration periods differ between them.
- Beyond N6. Completing N6 does not by itself produce the full diploma. A period of relevant practical workplace experience is normally required in addition. Confirm the current requirement with the college.
Documents You May Need
The standard TVET set applies, with your prior results establishing the entry point.
Required proof
- South African identity document.
- School results, or certificates for N levels already completed.
- Proof of residence.
- Certified copies where required.
- Funding documentation where applying for financial aid separately.
Steps to Apply or Prepare
Decide the stream and level, then confirm the college entry requirement for that specific programme rather than the general position.
Register within the trimester or semester period that applies to your stream, since these differ.
Plan the full route, including how you will obtain the practical experience needed after N6 if you intend to complete the diploma.
Costs, Processing Times and Validity
Fees are set by each college and are charged per trimester or semester. National student financial aid covers study at public TVET colleges subject to its criteria. Confirm both before the registration period closes.
Common Mistakes and Delays
Common mistake
- Assuming N1 and N4 have the same entry requirement.
- Missing a registration period because trimester and semester calendars differ.
- Completing N6 without arranging the practical experience needed for the diploma.
- Confusing NATED with NCV when choosing a route.
- Enrolling at a provider that is not a public TVET college.
Where to Confirm Official Requirements
Confirm entry requirements, trimester or semester dates and certification with the college directly, and check programme policy with the Department of Higher Education and Training. The Official Requirements Sources South Africa page links to the responsible bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NATED?
NATED, also called Report 191, is a set of programmes at public TVET colleges running from N1 to N6, split into engineering studies at N1 to N3 and business and general studies at N4 to N6.
Do I need Grade 12 for NATED?
Not for the engineering stream, which can normally be entered after Grade 9 with relevant subjects. N4 and above normally require Grade 12 or an equivalent qualification.
What comes after N6?
A period of relevant practical workplace experience is normally required in addition to N6 before the full diploma is awarded. Confirm the current requirement with the college.
How is NATED different from NCV?
They are separate routes with different structures, entry points and study patterns. Compare both before choosing.
Where can I confirm NATED requirements?
Confirm with the TVET college offering the programme.