Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges provide vocational and occupational education geared towards specific job opportunities, employment, or entrepreneurial ventures. This guide will help you understand why studying at a TVET college is a valuable choice and how to apply for funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
Why Study at a TVET College?
Studying at a TVET college equips students with practical skills tailored to South Africa’s job market and economic needs. TVET qualifications emphasize hands-on training and offer the following benefits:
- Skill Development: Gain vocational and occupational skills that improve employability.
- Entrepreneurial Potential: Learn the tools needed to start your own business.
- Addressing Skill Shortages: TVET colleges focus on sectors with a high demand for skilled professionals, including engineering, construction, manufacturing, agriculture, and IT.
TVET colleges are pivotal in South Africa’s efforts to build a skilled workforce and boost economic growth.
Courses Offered at TVET Colleges
Public TVET colleges offer a diverse range of courses developed to meet employers’ needs. Courses vary in duration, from short courses to formal diploma programs lasting up to three years.
Commonly Offered Programmes:
- Engineering Studies:
- National Certificate (Vocational) NQF Levels 2-4
- Report 191 N1-N6
- Fields: Civil Engineering, Electrical Infrastructure, Engineering and Related Design, and Information Technology & Computer Science.
- Business and Utility Studies:
- National Certificate (Vocational) NQF Levels 2-4
- Report 191 N4-N6
- Fields: Management, Marketing, Finance, Office Administration, Economics & Accounting, Education & Development, Hospitality, Tourism, Safety in Society, and Transport & Logistics.
- Pre-Learning Programmes (PLP): These preparatory courses provide foundational skills for entry into other TVET programs.
Affordability and Subsidies:
The Department of Higher Education and Training subsidizes 80% of program costs. Students often need to cover only the remaining 20%, which can be funded by bursaries like NSFAS.
Recommended for you: 50 Accredited Public TVET Colleges in South Africa
NSFAS Funding for TVET Colleges
NSFAS provides financial assistance to students enrolled in Ministerial-approved programs at public TVET colleges. Below are the details of the funding criteria and application process:
Qualification Criteria:
To qualify for NSFAS funding, students must:
- Be South African citizens.
- Be registered or intending to register for PLP, NC(V), or Report 191 programs at any of the 50 public TVET colleges.
- Demonstrate financial need (NSFAS assesses eligibility).
- For returning students, maintain academic progress per the college’s progression policy or bursary guidelines.
- Not duplicate a state-funded qualification.
- Have a combined family income of up to R350,000 per year.
Read more: How to Prepare for TVET College Placement Tests in 2025
What NSFAS Covers:
Eligible students may receive funding for:
- Registration and tuition fees.
- Personal care allowance.
- Transport allowance (for students living within 40 km of the college).
- Accommodation allowance (for students living more than 40 km away).
How to Apply for NSFAS Funding
Application Cycles:
- Annual Applications: For NC(V), Semester 1, and Trimester 1 programs, applications open at the start of each year.
- Mid-Year Applications:
- Trimester 2: May
- Trimester 3: September
- Semester 2: June-July
Where to Apply:
- TVET College Bursary Offices: Get assistance directly from the college.
- Online Applications: Apply through the NSFAS website.
- NSFAS Head Office: For direct applications and inquiries.
Relevant Legislations and Policies
Several policies guide NSFAS funding and TVET college administration, including:
- Continuing Education and Training Act, No 16 of 2006 (as amended).
- TVET Admissions Policy.
- TVET College Bursary Rules and Guidelines.
- National Norms and Standards for Funding of FET (TVET) Colleges.
Additional Resources
For more information, students can access:
- Presentations on the NSFAS Wallet and TVET funding.
- Circulars and guidelines provided by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
TVET colleges offer practical and affordable pathways to employment and entrepreneurship, addressing South Africa’s demand for skilled workers. With NSFAS funding, financial barriers are minimized, making it easier for students to achieve their educational goals. Start your journey today by exploring your options and applying for NSFAS funding to turn your aspirations into reality.
