Low APS Score Courses at TVET Colleges (2025)

South Africa’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges provide a lifeline for students seeking career-focused education without the high academic barriers often required by universities. With 50 public TVET colleges across the country, enrolling over 700,000 students, these institutions offer practical, skills-based programs in fields like business, hospitality, engineering, and arts. For students with lower APS scores (Admission Point Scores) or those without a matric certificate, TVET colleges are an accessible pathway to gain qualifications from NQF Level 2 to 4 through National Certificate Vocational (NCV) programs and N1–N6 NATED courses. This guide explores low APS score courses at TVET colleges for 2025, detailing admission requirements, program structures, and career prospects to help you kickstart a rewarding career, based on verified sources and Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) guidelines.

Low APS Score Courses at TVET Colleges

TVET colleges calculate APS using the six best NSC subjects, excluding Life Orientation, with points based on percentage ranges (e.g., 80–100% = 7 points, 50–59% = 4 points). Many programs require an APS as low as 18–22, and some accept students with Grade 9, 10, or 11, bypassing APS entirely. Unlike universities, TVET colleges prioritize vocational skills over academic scores, offering NCV and NATED qualifications in fields like hospitality, business, and design. Below, we highlight accessible programs for 2025, focusing on colleges like Central Johannesburg TVET College (CJC), Tshwane North TVET College (TNC), False Bay TVET College, and Nkangala TVET College, known for their inclusive entry requirements.

National Certificate Vocational (NCV) Programs

NCV programs, equivalent to Grades 10–12 (NQF Levels 2–4), are designed for students with Grade 9 or higher, requiring no specific APS for most courses. These three-year programs combine theory and practical training, with each level taking one year.

NCV in Office Administration
- Duration: 3 years (Levels 2–4)
- Campuses: CJC (Parktown), TNC (Pretoria West), False Bay (Khayelitsha), Nkangala (Witbank)
- Admission Requirements: Grade 9 pass or higher (APS not required for most colleges; CJC requires APS of 18 with Level 3 [40–49%] in English). NCV Level 2 requires 50% in English and Life Orientation, and 40% in Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy for some colleges.
- Overview: Covers 360 credits across Levels 2–4 in office management, business communication, and computer skills. Includes practical training in simulated office environments at college facilities.
- Career Paths: Office administrator, receptionist, or data capturer.
- Why Choose It?: No matric required, with minimal academic barriers, ideal for administrative careers.
NCV in Hospitality
- Duration: 3 years (Levels 2–4)
- Campuses: CJC (Smit Street), TNC (Rosslyn), False Bay (Fish Hoek), Nkangala (Middelburg)
- Admission Requirements: Grade 9 pass or higher (APS not required; TNC requires APS of 20 with Level 3 in English). NCV Level 2 requires 50% in English and 40% in Mathematical Literacy for some colleges.
- Overview: Covers 360 credits in food preparation, guest services, and event planning, with practical training in college kitchens and industry placements.
- Career Paths: Chef, hotel staff, or event coordinator.
- Why Choose It?: Accessible for students without matric, aligning with South Africa’s tourism industry.
NCV in Education and Development
- Duration: 3 years (Levels 2–4)
- Campuses: False Bay (Mitchell’s Plain), Vuselela TVET College (Potchefstroom), Nkangala (Mthatha)
- Admission Requirements: Grade 9 pass or higher (APS of 18–20 for Vuselela, with 50% in English and Life Orientation, 60% in Mathematics for Level 2). No APS required at False Bay.
- Overview: Covers 360 credits in early childhood education, child development, and classroom support, with practical training in local preschools.
- Career Paths: Early childhood educator, teaching assistant, or daycare coordinator.
- Why Choose It?: Ideal for students passionate about education, with low entry barriers.

NATED (Report 191) Programs

NATED programs (N1–N6) offer technical and vocational qualifications, with each level taking 3–6 months. These are ideal for students with Grade 12 or NCV Level 4, requiring APS scores as low as 20–22. After N6, 18 months of work experience qualify students for a National N Diploma.

NATED N4–N6 in Business Management
- Duration: 18 months (6 months per level)
- Campuses: CJC (Ellis Park), TNC (Mamelodi), Nkangala (Witbank), Waterberg TVET College (Mahwelereng)
- Admission Requirements: Grade 12 or NCV Level 4 with APS of 22 (Waterberg requires APS of 20, Level 4 [50–59%] in English, and Level 3 in Mathematical Literacy). NCV Level 4 with 50% in English accepted.
- Overview: Covers 360 credits across N4–N6 in entrepreneurship, financial management, and business operations, with practical projects in college business hubs.
- Career Paths: Business manager, entrepreneur, or financial assistant.
- Why Choose It?: Accessible for matriculants with low APS, leading to a National N Diploma with work experience.
NATED N4–N6 in Public Management
- Duration: 18 months (6 months per level)
- Campuses: CJC (Crown Mines), TNC (Pretoria West), False Bay (Muizenberg), Nkangala (Middelburg)
- Admission Requirements: Grade 12 or NCV Level 4 with APS of 22 (CJC requires Level 4 in English, Level 3 in Mathematical Literacy). NCV Level 4 with 50% in English accepted.
- Overview: Covers 360 credits in public administration, governance, and policy implementation, with practical projects in municipal settings.
- Career Paths: Municipal officer, public administrator, or policy assistant.
- Why Choose It?: Aligns with South Africa’s public sector needs, with low APS entry.
NATED N4–N6 in Hospitality and Catering Services
- Duration: 18 months (6 months per level)
- Campuses: TNC (Rosslyn), False Bay (Fish Hoek), Waterberg (Lebowakgomo)
- Admission Requirements: Grade 12 or NCV Level 4 with APS of 22 (False Bay requires Level 4 in English, Level 3 in Mathematical Literacy). NCV Level 4 with 50% in English accepted.
- Overview: Covers 360 credits in culinary arts, hospitality management, and customer service, with training in college kitchens and industry internships.
- Career Paths: Chef, catering manager, or hospitality supervisor.
- Why Choose It?: Prepares students for tourism and hospitality careers, with accessible entry requirements.

Higher Certificate Programs

Higher certificates (NQF Level 5, 120 credits) are one-year programs for students with Grade 12 or NCV Level 4, requiring APS scores of 20–22. They serve as pathways to diplomas or immediate employment.

Higher Certificate in Community Development Work
- Duration: 1 year
- Campuses: Nkangala (Witbank), Vuselela (Klerksdorp)
- Admission Requirements: Grade 12 or NCV Level 4 with APS of 20 (Nkangala requires Level 3 in English, Level 3 in Mathematical Literacy). NCV Level 4 with 50% in English accepted.
- Overview: Covers 120 credits in community engagement, project management, and social development, with fieldwork in local communities.
- Career Paths: Community worker, NGO coordinator, or development officer.
- Why Choose It?: A quick-entry qualification for social impact careers, with minimal APS requirements.
Higher Certificate in Tourism
- Duration: 1 year
- Campuses: False Bay (Fish Hoek), TNC (Pretoria West)
- Admission Requirements: Grade 12 or NCV Level 4 with APS of 20 (False Bay requires Level 3 in English, Level 3 in Mathematical Literacy). NCV Level 4 with 50% in English accepted.
- Overview: Covers 120 credits in tourism operations, customer service, and tour guiding, with practical training in college tourism centers.
- Career Paths: Tour guide, travel agent, or tourism coordinator.
- Why Choose It?: Aligns with South Africa’s tourism sector, accessible with low APS.

Summary Table: Low APS Score Courses at TVET Colleges (2025)

Program	Type	Duration	Campuses	Key Admission Requirements	Career Prospects
NCV in Office Administration	NCV	3 years	CJC, TNC, False Bay, Nkangala	Grade 9, APS 18 (CJC), Level 3 English	Office administrator
NCV in Hospitality	NCV	3 years	CJC, TNC, False Bay, Nkangala	Grade 9, APS 20 (TNC), Level 3 English	Chef, hotel staff
NCV in Education and Development	NCV	3 years	False Bay, Vuselela, Nkangala	Grade 9, APS 18–20 (Vuselela), Level 3 English	Early childhood educator
NATED N4–N6 Business Management	NATED	18 months	CJC, TNC, Nkangala, Waterberg	Grade 12/NCV Level 4, APS 22, Level 4 English	Business manager
NATED N4–N6 Public Management	NATED	18 months	CJC, TNC, False Bay, Nkangala	Grade 12/NCV Level 4, APS 22, Level 4 English	Public administrator
NATED N4–N6 Hospitality and Catering	NATED	18 months	TNC, False Bay, Waterberg	Grade 12/NCV Level 4, APS 22, Level 4 English	Catering manager
Higher Certificate in Community Development	Higher Certificate	1 year	Nkangala, Vuselela	Grade 12/NCV Level 4, APS 20, Level 3 English	Community worker
Higher Certificate in Tourism	Higher Certificate	1 year	False Bay, TNC	Grade 12/NCV Level 4, APS 20, Level 3 English	Tour guide

Why Choose Low APS Score Courses at TVET Colleges?

TVET colleges offer compelling advantages for students with lower APS scores:

Low Entry Barriers: Programs accept Grade 9 or higher, with APS as low as 18–20, and many allow Mathematical Literacy, broadening access.
Practical Training: Courses emphasize hands-on skills through workshops, kitchens, and internships, ensuring workplace readiness.
Career-Focused: Qualifications target high-demand sectors like hospitality, administration, and education, with over 80% of graduates employed within a year, per DHET reports.
Affordability: Government subsidies cover 80% of fees, and NSFAS bursaries support eligible students, making TVET colleges cost-effective.

How to Apply to TVET Colleges for 2025

TVET college applications are handled online or in-person, with processes varying by institution. Most colleges charge no application fee, and applications for 2026 open between April 1 and September 30, 2025, through college websites or the Central Applications Clearing House (CACH) for some institutions. General steps include:

Check Requirements: Review entry criteria (e.g., Grade 9, APS 18–22, subject levels) on college websites like www.cjc.edu.za, www.tnc.edu.za, or www.falsebaycollege.co.za.
Apply Online or In-Person: Submit applications via college portals or campus offices, uploading certified copies of ID, latest school results (Grade 9–12 or NCV), and proof of residence. Portfolios may be required for design courses.
Track Application: Monitor status via college portals or contact admissions offices (e.g., CJC: +27 (0)11 351 6000, TNC: +27 (0)12 401 1600). Outcomes are emailed by November 2025 (non-Grade 12) or January 2026 (Grade 12).
Register: Accept offers within 10 days and register by January 31, 2026, paying a deposit (often covered by NSFAS).

Note: Spaces are limited, especially for NATED programs. Early application is critical. Contact colleges for specific deadlines and requirements.

Career Prospects and Industry Demand

TVET courses prepare students for immediate employment or further studies, aligning with South Africa’s economic needs:

Office Administration: Graduates earn R80,000–R150,000 annually as administrators or receptionists, with demand in corporate and government sectors.
Hospitality: Hospitality graduates earn R80,000–R200,000 in hotels, restaurants, or tourism, with KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape leading demand.
Education and Development: Early childhood educators earn R60,000–R120,000, with a projected shortage of 400,000 teachers by 2030, per DHET.
Public Management: Public administrators earn R100,000–R250,000 in municipal or government roles, per Payscale data.
Community Development and Tourism: Graduates earn R80,000–R150,000 in NGOs or tourism agencies, with growth in community-based projects.

TVET colleges’ partnerships with industries, such as hospitality chains and municipalities, ensure strong employability, with many programs including work-integrated learning.

Tips for Success in TVET College Programs

To thrive in TVET courses, try these strategies:

Maximize Practical Training: Engage fully in workshops, internships, and fieldwork to build hands-on skills.
Develop Soft Skills: Join college clubs or volunteering programs to enhance communication and teamwork, critical for administration and hospitality roles.
Use Support Services: Access college career centers, libraries, and counseling units (e.g., False Bay’s Student Support Services) for academic and personal support.
Network Actively: Attend college career fairs or industry open days to connect with employers in your field.
Stay Organized: Use planners to manage coursework, practicals, and deadlines, especially in multi-level NCV or NATED programs.

TVET Colleges’ Unique Learning Environment

South Africa’s TVET colleges, regulated by the DHET, offer modern facilities like workshops, computer labs, and training kitchens. CJC in Johannesburg provides urban access to business and hospitality industries, while TNC in Pretoria emphasizes engineering and administration. False Bay in the Western Cape excels in tourism and education programs, and Nkangala in Mpumalanga supports rural development through community-focused courses. With 5–10% international students, TVET colleges foster diverse communities. Student life includes sports, cultural societies, and events like Nkangala’s Skills Expo, enriching the learning experience.

Financial Aid and Support at TVET Colleges

TVET colleges are affordable, with 80% government subsidies and support from:

NSFAS Bursaries: Covers tuition, accommodation, and allowances for students with household incomes below R350,000 annually. Apply by November 30, 2025, via www.nsfas.org.za.
College Bursaries: Merit- and need-based funding, e.g., Nkangala’s bursary for top performers. Check college websites for 2025 deadlines.
Private Loans: Providers like Fundi offer loans. Contact college financial aid offices (e.g., TNC: +27 (0)12 401 1600).

Apply early, as funding is limited. Colleges provide academic support through Open Learning Centres and counseling services to ensure student success.

FAQ: Common Questions About Low APS Score Courses at TVET Colleges

1. What is the lowest APS score accepted at TVET colleges for 2025?
Most TVET colleges accept APS scores as low as 18–20 for NCV programs like Office Administration and Hospitality, while higher certificates and NATED programs require APS of 20–22. Some NCV courses accept Grade 9 without APS. Check college websites for specific requirements.

2. Can I study at a TVET college without a matric certificate?
Yes, NCV programs like Education and Development or Hospitality accept students with a Grade 9 pass or higher, no matric required. NATED and higher certificate programs typically require Grade 12 or NCV Level 4.

3. What short courses are available at TVET colleges with low APS requirements?
TVET colleges offer short courses like computer literacy, basic hospitality, and community development, requiring only Grade 9 or 10 with no specific APS. Contact colleges like False Bay ([email protected]) or TNC for 2025 offerings.

Conclusion

South Africa’s TVET colleges offer a wealth of low APS score courses for 2025, from NCV programs in hospitality and office administration to NATED qualifications in business and public management, accessible to students with APS scores as low as 18–22 or just a Grade 9 pass. These programs provide practical, job-ready skills in high-demand sectors, supported by modern facilities and industry partnerships. With affordable fees, NSFAS funding, and inclusive entry requirements, TVET colleges like CJC, TNC, False Bay, and Nkangala are ideal for students seeking career-focused education. Visit college websites, prepare for the 2026 application cycle opening April 1, 2025, and embark on a transformative journey toward a rewarding career.