VerifiedPublic TVET colleges share national minimums, but each college adds its own rules. This page shows the national baseline and real examples of extra requirements that colleges publish, so you know what to check.
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National baseline
| Programme | Minimum |
|---|---|
| NC(V) Level 2 | Grade 9 |
| Pre-Vocational Learning Programme | Usually Grade 9 to 11 |
| Occupational programmes | Set per qualification |
| NATED N4, where offered | Matric or N3 |
Extra requirements colleges publish
| College | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Ekurhuleni West | Grade 9 for NQF Level 2, Grade 10 for Level 3, Grade 11 for Level 4; minimum maths and English marks for occupational programmes |
| Orbit | Mathematics, not mathematical literacy, for NC(V) engineering and ICT; Grade 12 or NC(V) Level 4 with 40% maths for occupational trades |
| Esayidi and Goldfields | Minimum age of 16 |
| Northlink (Safety in Society) | BMI check, interview, medical and substance tests |
| Mopani | Grade 9 with at least 50% for NC(V), or a PLP certificate |
Almost every college also requires
- A placement or career assessment before the application.
- Certified copies of your ID and latest results, and proof of residence.
- Applying within the published window; late applications are often not processed.
Meeting the minimum does not guarantee a place, and some NC(V) programmes take no new Level 2 students from 2027 under DHET circular TC 0153.
See eligibility by applicant type and find colleges in our directory of all 50 public TVET colleges.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum requirement for a TVET college?
A Grade 9 pass for the NC(V). Colleges and programmes can add subject, age or assessment requirements.
Do TVET colleges require maths?
For engineering, ICT and trade programmes, usually yes. Some colleges specify mathematics rather than mathematical literacy.