Before applying to any programme marketed under a name you do not recognise, verify that the provider is registered and that the qualification is accredited. That check matters more than any entry requirement, because an unaccredited qualification has little value and cannot be remedied afterwards.
This page sets out how to verify a private education provider and what entry requirements to expect, rather than restating criteria for a specific programme that may change or may not be currently offered.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
Before applying anywhere, verify the following.
- That the provider is registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training, where it offers higher education
- That the specific qualification is registered on the National Qualifications Framework
- The qualification SAQA identification number and NQF level
- Which quality council accredits it: the Council on Higher Education, Umalusi or the QCTO
- Whether the qualification articulates into further study
- What the qualification actually permits you to do on completion
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
Private providers in South Africa must be registered to offer higher education qualifications, and the registration is specific to the qualifications they are approved to offer. A provider can be registered for some qualifications and not others.
Entry requirements at private providers are commonly lower than at public institutions, which is a legitimate part of widening access. It becomes a problem only where the qualification itself is not accredited.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
Expect entry requirements in line with the qualification level: a National Senior Certificate for higher certificates, a diploma pass for diplomas, a bachelor pass for degrees.
Where a provider offers a degree with entry requirements materially below the national pass level for that qualification type, treat it as a warning sign and verify the accreditation carefully.
Documents and Application Requirements
Applications normally require the following.
- A certified copy of your identity document
- Your National Senior Certificate or highest qualification
- Proof of the application or registration fee
- Proof of residential address
- Confirmation in writing of the qualification SAQA identification number and NQF level
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
Ask the provider directly for the SAQA identification number of the qualification and check it on the SAQA register. A provider unwilling or unable to supply it is a serious warning sign.
Never pay a substantial deposit before verifying accreditation. This is where the greatest financial loss occurs in private education, and it is entirely preventable with one check.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check a private college is legitimate?
Ask for the qualification SAQA identification number, check it on the SAQA register, and confirm the provider registration with the Department of Higher Education and Training.
Are lower entry requirements a warning sign?
Not in themselves. They become a problem where the qualification is not accredited, or where a degree is offered below the national pass level for that type.
What should I do before paying?
Verify accreditation and NQF registration in writing. Never pay a substantial deposit before doing so.
What if a qualification is not accredited?
It carries little value with employers and does not articulate into further study, and this cannot be remedied afterwards.
Verify provider registration with the Department of Higher Education and Training and qualification registration with SAQA before paying anything. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.