VerifiedYes, it can be very costly. A qualification from an unaccredited provider may not be recognised by employers, universities or professional bodies, and you cannot get NSFAS for it. But “accreditation” has different meanings, so check exactly what is missing before deciding.
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What can go wrong
| Risk | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| Certificate not recognised | Employers and other institutions may reject it |
| No NQF credits | You cannot use it to progress to further study |
| No professional registration | Careers such as nursing, emergency care and security need approved training |
| No funding | NSFAS and most bursaries only pay for accredited programmes |
| College closes | Unregistered providers can shut down with your fees |
When “not accredited” is less serious
- Short courses and workshops that are not meant to be qualifications.
- Programmes where the provider is accredited but a new site is still being approved; ask for written proof.
- Private colleges offering N4 to N6 or occupational programmes, which need QCTO accreditation rather than DHET registration.
How to check
- Is the college one of the 50 public TVET colleges?
- If private, is it on the DHET register, and is your programme accredited by the CHE, Umalusi or QCTO?
- Is the accreditation still valid for the whole time you will study?
- Is the qualification registered on the NQF with SAQA?
If you already studied at an unaccredited provider, ask SAQA or the relevant quality council whether any credits can be recognised, and report fraud to the Department of Higher Education and Training.
See what accreditation a college needs and how to check registration.
Frequently asked questions
Is a certificate from an unaccredited college valid?
It is unlikely to be recognised as a formal qualification by employers, universities or professional bodies.
Can NSFAS fund an unaccredited programme?
No. NSFAS does not fund unaccredited qualifications.