Verified“Qualifications for TVET colleges” can mean two things: the qualifications a college awards, and what you need to get in. The answers are linked, because each type of qualification has its own entry rules.
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The qualifications public TVET colleges offer
| Qualification | Quality assurer | Level | Typical entry |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Certificate (Vocational) | Umalusi | NQF Levels 2 to 4 | Grade 9 pass |
| Occupational certificates (trades and other occupations) | QCTO | Mostly NQF Levels 2 to 5 | Set per qualification, often Grade 9 to Grade 12 |
| NATED Report 191 N4 to N6 | QCTO certification | NQF Levels 5 and 6 | Matric or N3; being phased out |
| Skills programmes and short courses | Varies | Parts of a qualification | Set by the college |
NATED N1 to N3 closed to new students on 1 January 2024. You may still see them on old college pages.
Beyond the minimum entry requirement
- Subjects: engineering and many trades require mathematics, and sometimes physical science.
- Placement tests: some colleges test language and numeracy before placing you.
- Space: popular programmes fill up, so meeting the minimum does not guarantee a place.
- Workplace placement: some occupational programmes need an employer to host your practical training.
Documents you will need
Most colleges ask for a copy of your ID, your latest results and proof of residence. Parents’ or guardians’ IDs may be needed for students under 18.
Getting funded
NSFAS funds eligible students on approved programmes at public TVET colleges, and many of the occupational qualifications on the Department of Higher Education and Training’s 2026 list include NSFAS allowances. Read TVET eligibility requirements and which qualifications NSFAS funds.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum qualification to study at a TVET college?
A Grade 9 pass is enough for the NC(V). Other programmes set their own entry requirements.
Are TVET college qualifications on the NQF?
Yes. NC(V) qualifications are quality-assured by Umalusi and occupational qualifications by the QCTO, and both sit on the National Qualifications Framework.