TVET colleges offer vocational and occupational qualifications, principally the National Certificate Vocational and the N-level Report 191 programmes. Entry requirements are considerably lower than at universities, with NCV entered from Grade 9 and N-level programmes from Grade 9 or 12 depending on the level.
TVET colleges are the main route into the artisan trades, and they are publicly funded, which makes them substantially cheaper than private providers offering similar training. NSFAS funds TVET study for students meeting its criteria.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
Entry is generally assessed on the following.
- Grade 9 for the National Certificate Vocational, which then runs at levels 2 to 4
- Grade 9 or 12 for N-level programmes, depending on the level entered
- A mathematics subject for engineering and technical programmes
- A National Senior Certificate for higher-level N programmes and some occupational qualifications
- Proof of South African citizenship or a permit, for NSFAS funding purposes
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
The NCV is a three-year vocational qualification at levels 2 to 4, equivalent in level to Grades 10 to 12 but vocationally focused. Completing NCV level 4 can give access to higher education.
N-level programmes, from N1 through N6, are the traditional route into the trades and into national diplomas. For engineering trades, N1 to N3 combined with workplace experience leads towards a trade test.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy is required for most programmes, with engineering and technical programmes requiring Mathematics or its technical equivalent specifically.
Business and services programmes are generally more accepting of Mathematical Literacy than engineering programmes are.
Documents and Application Requirements
Applications normally require the following.
- A certified copy of your identity document
- Your latest school report or National Senior Certificate
- Proof of residential address
- Proof of the application or registration fee
- Parent or guardian identity documents, for applicants under eighteen
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
Apply directly to the college during its application window. Public TVET colleges have limited places in popular programmes, particularly engineering trades, and applications open well before the academic year.
Apply for NSFAS separately if you need funding. NSFAS funds TVET study for students meeting its criteria, and the application is distinct from your college application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between NCV and N-level?
NCV is a three-year vocational qualification at levels 2 to 4 entered from Grade 9. N-level programmes run N1 to N6 and are the traditional route into the trades and national diplomas.
Can I go to university after TVET?
Completing NCV level 4 can give access to higher education, and N-level study articulates into national diplomas. Confirm the specific route with the institution.
Do I need matric for TVET?
Not for NCV, which is entered from Grade 9. Higher-level N programmes and some occupational qualifications require a National Senior Certificate.
Does NSFAS fund TVET study?
Yes, for students meeting its criteria. Apply to NSFAS separately from your college application.
Confirm programme entry requirements and application dates with the specific TVET college, and apply to NSFAS separately for funding. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.