TVET Courses and Requirements (2026)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Not every matriculant wants to go to university. Not every career requires a degree. South Africa needs artisans, technicians, and skilled tradespeople just as urgently as it needs doctors and lawyers. This is where TVET colleges step in.

Technical and Vocational Education and Training colleges are the backbone of South Africa’s skills development system. They offer practical, hands-on training in fields like engineering, hospitality, business, and information technology. Courses range from NCV levels to NATED programmes and skills certificates.

This guide covers every TVET course available in 2026, the entry requirements for each level, how to apply, what financial aid is available, and which careers you can pursue after graduation.

TVET Courses and Requirements (2026): Complete Guide to South Africa’s Technical and Vocational Education

What Is A TVET College?

TVET colleges are public further education and training institutions. There are 50 registered TVET colleges in South Africa, with over 300 campuses spread across all nine provinces.

Unlike universities, which focus on theoretical academic knowledge, TVET colleges focus on practical workplace skills. You learn by doing. You spend significant time in workshops, laboratories, and simulated work environments.

TVET qualifications are regulated by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations and the Department of Higher Education and Training. They are nationally recognised and, in many cases, internationally portable.

Quick Reference: TVET Qualification Levels

Qualification NQF Level Duration Entry Requirement
NCV Level 2 2 1 year Grade 9 or equivalent
NCV Level 3 3 1 year NCV Level 2
NCV Level 4 4 1 year NCV Level 3
NATED N1 2 3 months Grade 10 or equivalent
NATED N2 3 3 months N1
NATED N3 4 3 months N2
NATED N4 5 3 months Grade 12 or NCV Level 4
NATED N5 5 3 months N4
NATED N6 5 3 months N5
National Diploma 6 18 months N6 + 18 months work experience

This layout keeps the progression clear and easy to scan, showing how learners can move step by step from entry-level qualifications up to a National Diploma.

TVET Course Categories

TVET colleges offer programmes in seven main occupational fields:

1. Engineering and Related Design
2. Electrical Infrastructure Construction
3. Civil Engineering and Building Construction
4. Information Technology and Computer Science
5. Finance, Economics, and Accounting
6. Office Administration and Management
7. Hospitality, Tourism, and Catering

Each field contains multiple specialised courses.

NCV Programmes: National Certificate Vocational

The NCV programme is a three-year qualification equivalent to Grades 10 to 12. It combines theoretical learning with practical workshops. Graduates receive an NQF Level 4 certificate, which is equivalent to a matric certificate and allows access to university or NATED N4 studies.

NCV Engineering and Related Design

This programme covers mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering fundamentals.

Compulsory subjects:
– Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
– Engineering Fundamentals
– Engineering Technology
– Engineering Graphics and Design
– Life Orientation

Vocational subjects:
– Fitting and Turning
– Welding
– Motor Mechanics
– Boilermaking
– Patternmaking

Career outcomes: Fitter, turner, welder, mechanic, boilermaker, artisan assistant.

NCV Electrical Infrastructure Construction

This programme specialises in electrical systems, wiring, and renewable energy.

Compulsory subjects:
– Mathematics
– Engineering Fundamentals
– Electrical Principles
– Electronic Control and Digital Electronics
– Life Orientation

Vocational subjects:
– Electrical Systems and Construction
– Electrical Workmanship
– Renewable Energy Systems

Career outcomes: Electrician, electrical technician, solar installer, maintenance worker.

NCV Civil Engineering and Building Construction

This programme prepares students for careers in construction, roadworks, and structural engineering.

Compulsory subjects:
– Mathematics
– Engineering Fundamentals
– Construction Planning
– Construction Materials
– Life Orientation

Vocational subjects:
– Carpentry and Roofing
– Masonry and Plastering
– Plumbing
– Concrete Structures

Career outcomes: Carpenter, bricklayer, plumber, construction supervisor, site technician.

NCV Information Technology and Computer Science

This programme covers software development, network administration, and technical support.

Compulsory subjects:
– Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
– English
– Life Orientation

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Vocational subjects:
– Introduction to Information Systems
– Systems Analysis and Design
– Database Design
– Software Development
– Network Systems

Career outcomes: Junior developer, IT support technician, network administrator, helpdesk consultant.

NCV Finance, Economics, and Accounting

This programme prepares students for careers in bookkeeping, financial administration, and retail.

Compulsory subjects:
– Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
– English
– Life Orientation

Vocational subjects:
– Financial Accounting
– Economic Environment
– Management Practice
– New Venture Creation

Career outcomes: Bookkeeper, accounts clerk, retail supervisor, small business owner.

NCV Office Administration and Management

This programme trains students for administrative and secretarial roles.

Compulsory subjects:
– Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
– English
– Life Orientation

Vocational subjects:
– Office Data Processing
– Office Practice
– Computer Practice
– Communication

Career outcomes: Administrative assistant, receptionist, data capturer, personal assistant.

NCV Hospitality, Tourism, and Catering

This programme prepares students for the hospitality industry, including hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies.

Compulsory subjects:
– Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
– English
– Life Orientation

Vocational subjects:
– Hospitality Services
– Food Preparation
– Consumer Behaviour
– Tourism Operations

Career outcomes: Chef, waiter, hotel receptionist, travel consultant, catering assistant.

NCV Entry Requirements

– Minimum requirement: Grade 9 certificate.
– Some colleges require a pass in Mathematics or English.
– No matric required.
– Students must be between 16 and 35 years old.

NCV is ideal for:
– Learners who did not complete matric.
– Learners who passed matric but want practical skills.
– Adults seeking a career change.

NATED Programmes: Report 191

NATED, also known as Report 191, is the legacy technical qualification system. It is offered in trimester or semester modules. Students progress through N1 to N6, then complete 18 to 24 months of workplace experience to obtain a National Diploma.

NATED programmes are available in:

– Engineering Studies
– Business Studies
– General Studies

NATED Engineering Studies

N1 to N3: Three-month certificates per level. Entry requirement: Grade 10 with Mathematics and Physical Science.

N4 to N6: Three-month certificates per level. Entry requirement: Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science, or NCV Level 4.

Engineering fields:

– Mechanical Engineering
– Electrical Engineering
– Civil Engineering
– Chemical Engineering
– Industrial Engineering

Career outcomes: After N6 plus 24 months work experience, students qualify for a National Diploma and may write trade tests to become qualified artisans.

NATED Business Studies

N4 to N6: Three-month certificates per level. Entry requirement: Grade 12 or NCV Level 4.

Business fields:

– Human Resource Management
– Marketing Management
– Financial Management
– Business Management
– Public Management

Career outcomes: After N6 plus 18 months work experience, students receive a National Diploma and may pursue university postgraduate studies.

NATED General Studies

General Studies include:

– Legal Secretary
– Medical Secretary
– Executive Secretary
– Educare

Entry requirement: Grade 12 or NCV Level 4.

Career outcomes: Specialised administrative roles in law firms, medical practices, schools, and corporate offices.

Skills Programmes and Learnerships

TVET colleges also offer short, focused skills programmes and learnerships. These are not full qualifications but provide specific competencies required by employers.

Examples:

– Welding
– Plumbing
– Bricklaying
– Early Childhood Development
– End-User Computing
– Wholesale and Retail

Duration: 2 weeks to 6 months.

Entry requirements: Vary by programme. Some require Grade 9, others require no formal schooling.

Learnerships combine theoretical training at college with practical on-the-job training with an employer. Learners receive a monthly stipend.

How To Apply To A TVET College

Application process:

1. Choose a college. Locate the 50 public TVET colleges at www.dhet.gov.za.
2. Select a campus. Most colleges have multiple campuses offering different specialisations.
3. Check the course list. Verify which programmes are offered at your chosen campus.
4. Download the application form. Forms are available on college websites or at campus registrars.
5. Submit required documents:
– Certified copy of ID.
– Certified copy of highest school certificate (Grade 9, 10, 11, or 12).
– Certified copy of parents or guardian ID if under 18.
– Proof of residence.
6. Pay the application fee. This is typically R100 to R300. Some colleges waive fees for NSFAS applicants.
7. Attend an interview or placement assessment if required.

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Application dates:

– Main intake: January to February.
– Mid-year intake: July to August (limited courses).

TVET College Fees and Financial Aid

TVET college fees range from R2,000 to R10,000 per year depending on the course and level.

NSFAS: National Student Financial Aid Scheme

– Covers full tuition fees.
– Provides an allowance for books, transport, and accommodation.
– Available to South African citizens with household income below R350,000 per year.
– Does not need to be repaid.

How to apply for NSFAS:

1. Go to www.nsfas.org.za.
2. Create a myNSFAS account.
3. Complete the online application.
4. Upload supporting documents:
– Certified ID.
– Certified parental or guardian ID.
– Proof of income or affidavit if unemployed.
– Disability annexure if applicable.
5. Submit before the closing date, usually November for the following year.

Bursaries:

Many TVET colleges offer merit-based bursaries. Some are funded by SETAs, municipalities, or private companies. Inquire at the college financial aid office.

TVET vs. University: Which Is Right for You?

Factor TVET (Technical & Vocational Education and Training) University
Entry requirement Grade 9–12 Matric with bachelor pass
Duration 1–4 years 3–6 years
Focus Practical, job-ready skills Theoretical, research-based knowledge
Class size 20–30 students 100–300 students
Cost R2,000–R10,000 R40,000–R70,000
Qualification NCV, NATED, Diploma Degree, Honours, Masters
Career paths Artisan, technician, skilled trades Professional, academic, specialist careers

This version makes the distinctions clearer by slightly expanding the labels (like “job-ready skills” vs. “research-based knowledge”) and tightening the formatting for readability.

Choose TVET if:

– You prefer hands-on learning.
– You want to enter the workforce quickly.
– Your matric marks do not meet university requirements.
– You are interested in a trade or technical occupation.

Choose University if:

– You want a professional career in law, medicine, engineering, or academia.
– You are willing to study for 4 to 6 years.
– You achieved a bachelor pass with good grades.

TVET Colleges In Each Province

Eastern Cape:
– Buffalo City TVET
– Eastcape Midlands TVET
– Ikhala TVET
– Ingwe TVET
– King Hintsa TVET
– Lovedale TVET
– Port Elizabeth TVET

Free State:
– Flavius Mareka TVET
– Goldfields TVET
– Maluti TVET
– Motheo TVET

Gauteng:
– Central Johannesburg TVET
– Ekurhuleni East TVET
– Ekurhuleni West TVET
– Sedibeng TVET
– South West Gauteng TVET
– Tshwane North TVET
– Tshwane South TVET
– Western College TVET

KwaZulu-Natal:
– Coastal TVET
– Elangeni TVET
– Esayidi TVET
– Majuba TVET
– Mnambithi TVET
– Mthashana TVET
– Thekwini TVET
– Umfolozi TVET
– Umgungundlovu TVET

Limpopo:
– Capricorn TVET
– Lephalale TVET
– Letaba TVET
– Mopani South East TVET
– Sekhukhune TVET
– Vhembe TVET
– Waterberg TVET

Mpumalanga:
– Ehlanzeni TVET
– Gert Sibande TVET
– Nkangala TVET

Northern Cape:
– Northern Cape Rural TVET
– Northern Cape Urban TVET

North West:
– Orbit TVET
– Taletso TVET
– Vuselela TVET

Western Cape:
– Boland TVET
– College of Cape Town
– False Bay TVET
– Northlink TVET
– South Cape TVET
– West Coast TVET

Common Questions, SEO FAQ Section

Can I go to university after TVET?

Yes. NCV Level 4 is equivalent to a National Senior Certificate. You may apply for university admission, but you must meet the specific degree entry requirements, including any required subjects and APS scores. Some universities accept NATED N6 as equivalent to first-year university study.

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Can I study TVET part-time?

Yes. Many TVET colleges offer evening classes and part-time programmes, particularly for NATED business studies. Part-time courses take longer to complete.

Are TVET qualifications recognised internationally?

TVET qualifications are recognised in some countries, particularly within the SADC region. For immigration purposes, you may need to have your qualification evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority.

Do TVET students receive a stipend?

NSFAS-funded students receive allowances for books, transport, and accommodation. Learnership students receive a stipend from the employer. Ordinary TVET students do not receive a stipend.

What is the pass rate for TVET?

The national TVET pass rate is approximately 60 to 70 percent. Engineering programmes have lower pass rates due to the difficulty of Mathematics and Physical Science.

Can I switch from TVET to university?

Yes. You can complete NCV Level 4 or NATED N6 and then apply for university admission. Some universities offer recognition of prior learning credits, reducing your degree duration.

What happens if I fail a subject?

You may repeat the subject in the next trimester or semester. NSFAS funding continues for repeat subjects provided you are making satisfactory progress.

Do TVET colleges offer accommodation?

Some TVET colleges have residential facilities. Most students find private accommodation near the campus. NSFAS provides a housing allowance for students who do not live at home.

Can I apply for TVET if I am over 35?

Yes. There is no upper age limit for TVET studies. NSFAS funding is available for students up to 35 years old. Students over 35 may apply for bursaries or pay fees privately.

What is the difference between NCV and NATED?

NCV is a three-year full qualification from NQF Level 2 to 4. NATED is a series of certificates from N1 to N6 leading to a diploma. NCV includes more general education subjects. NATED is purely vocational.

Summary: Which TVET Course Should You Choose?

Choose Engineering if:

– You enjoy working with machines, tools, and systems.
– You are good at Mathematics and Physical Science.
– You want to become a qualified artisan.

Choose Electrical Infrastructure if:

– You are interested in wiring, circuits, and power.
– You want to work in construction, maintenance, or renewable energy.

Choose Civil Engineering if:

– You enjoy building and construction.
– You want to work on roads, bridges, and buildings.

Choose Information Technology if:

– You enjoy computers and problem-solving.
– You want to work in software, networks, or technical support.

Choose Business or Office Administration if:

– You enjoy working with people and numbers.
– You want to work in an office environment.

Choose Hospitality if:

– You enjoy cooking, serving, and travelling.
– You want to work in hotels, restaurants, or tourism.

Final Warning: Verify Your College

There are many unregistered private colleges claiming to offer TVET qualifications. These are not the same as public TVET colleges. Their certificates may not be recognised by employers or the Department of Higher Education.

Always verify that your chosen college is on the official Department of Higher Education and Training list.

Public TVET colleges are funded by government. Their fees are subsidised. Their qualifications are nationally recognised.

Private colleges are not TVET colleges. They are private institutions. Read the fine print carefully.

Official Resources:

– Department of Higher Education and Training: www.dhet.gov.za
– NSFAS: www.nsfas.org.za
– SAQA: www.saqa.org.za
– QCTO: www.qcto.org.za

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This guide was last updated for 2026 standards. TVET course offerings, entry requirements, and funding policies are subject to change without notice. Always verify current information with your chosen TVET college and the Department of Higher Education and Training.