Finding the right place to study after Matric is a major decision. South Africa has a strong public education system with 26 public universities and 50 public Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges.
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This guide provides a complete directory of these institutions. It helps you understand the difference between a university and a TVET college so you can choose the path that matches your career goals.
University vs. TVET College: What is the Difference?
Before choosing, you must understand the primary focus of each institution type.
- Universities are academic institutions. They focus on theoretical knowledge and research. You study for degrees like a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BSc), or Bachelor of Commerce (BCom).
- Best for: Academic or professional careers like being a doctor, lawyer, engineer, or scientist.
- Entry Requirement: A Matric with a Bachelor’s Pass is usually required.
- TVET Colleges are vocational institutions. They focus on practical skills and hands-on training for a specific job. You study for a National Certificate (Vocational) or a NATED diploma.
- Best for: Technical or trade careers like being a chef, electrician, plumber, IT technician, or tourism manager.
- Entry Requirement: You can often enter with a Grade 9, 10, 11, or 12 pass, depending on the program.
List of All 26 Public Universities in South Africa
These institutions are divided into traditional universities (offering theoretical degrees) and universities of technology (offering industry-focused degrees).
Traditional Universities
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of Fort Hare (UFH)
- University of the Free State (UFS)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- University of Limpopo (UL)
- North-West University (NWU)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- Rhodes University (RU)
- Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
- Stellenbosch University (SU)
- University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- University of Venda (Univen)
- University of Zululand (UniZulu)
- University of South Africa (UNISA) – Dedicated to distance learning
Universities of Technology (Comprehensive)
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Central University of Technology (CUT)
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- Sol Plaatje University (SPU)
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- University of Mpumalanga (UMP)
- Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
- Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
List of All 50 Public TVET Colleges by Province
TVET Colleges are your gateway to practical skills. Find the college closest to you from the official list below, grouped by province.
Eastern Cape
- Buffalo City TVET College
- Eastcape Midlands TVET College
- Ikhala TVET College
- Ingwe TVET College
- King Hintsa TVET College
- King Sabata Dalindyebo TVET College
- Lovedale TVET College
- Port Elizabeth TVET College
Free State
- Flavius Mareka TVET College
- Goldfields TVET College
- Maluti TVET College
- Motheo TVET College
Gauteng
- Central Johannesburg TVET College
- Ekurhuleni East TVET College
- Ekurhuleni West TVET College
- Sedibeng TVET College
- South West Gauteng TVET College
- Tshwane North TVET College
- Tshwane South TVET College
- Western TVET College
KwaZulu-Natal
- Coastal KZN TVET College
- Elangeni TVET College
- Esayidi TVET College
- Majuba TVET College
- Mnambithi TVET College
- Mthashana TVET College
- Thekwini TVET College
- Umfolozi TVET College
- Umgungundlovu TVET College
Limpopo
- Capricorn TVET College
- Lephalale TVET College
- Letaba TVET College
- Mopani South East TVET College
- Sekhukhune TVET College
- Vhembe TVET College
- Waterberg TVET College
Mpumalanga
- Ehlanzeni TVET College
- Gert Sibande TVET College
- Nkangala TVET College
Northern Cape
- Northern Cape Rural TVET College
- Northern Cape Urban TVET College
North West
- Orbit TVET College
- Taletso TVET College
- Vuselela TVET College
Western Cape
- Boland TVET College
- College of Cape Town
- False Bay TVET College
- Northlink TVET College
- South Cape TVET College
- West Coast College
How to Use a Prospectus
A prospectus is the most important document for any applicant. It is a detailed booklet published by the university or college each year.
A prospectus contains all the essential information you need:
- A full list of all courses and programs.
- The specific admission requirements for each course (which Matric subjects and marks you need).
- Tuition fees for the year.
- Application opening and closing dates.
- Details on accommodation (residences) and bursaries.
You can find this document on the institution’s official website. For detailed examples, see our guides:
- Wits Prospectus 2026: A Full Guide
- UJ Prospectus 2026: Download and How to Use
Featured Institution Courses
To help you understand what is offered, here are two popular institutions.
University Spotlight: University of Johannesburg (UJ)
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a large, comprehensive university known for its focus on technology, innovation, and industry-ready graduates. It offers a wide range of programs, from engineering and finance to humanities and health sciences.
For a complete breakdown, read our guide: University of Johannesburg (UJ) Courses and Requirements]
TVET Spotlight: Tshwane North TVET College (TNC)
Tshwane North TVET College (TNC) is a leading vocational institution in Gauteng. It has multiple campuses offering practical programs in areas like Engineering, Business, and Hospitality. TNC is ideal for students who want to get hands-on skills to enter the job market quickly.
For a complete breakdown, read our guide: Tshwane North TVET College (TNC) Courses
How to Apply to an Institution
The application process is different for universities and TVETs.
University Applications
- Check Requirements: Use the prospectus to confirm you meet the requirements for your chosen degree.
- Apply Online: Most universities require you to apply directly on their own application portal.
- Use CAO (If Applicable): If you are applying to institutions in KwaZulu-Natal (like UKZN or DUT), you must use the Central Applications Office (CAO).
- Upload Documents: You will need certified copies of your ID and latest Matric results.
- Pay the Application Fee: Most universities charge a small, non-refundable application fee.
TVET College Applications
- Choose a Campus and Course: Decide which of the 50 colleges and their specific campuses offers the program you want.
- Apply Online (or Walk-in): Most TVETs use their own online application portals. Some also allow you to apply in person (walk-in) at the campus.
- Career Guidance: Many TVETs require you to complete a career guidance assessment as part of your application.
- No Application Fee: Public TVET Colleges generally do not charge application fees.
How to Fund Your Studies
After you are accepted, you need to secure funding. The main source of funding for students at all 26 public universities and 50 public TVET colleges is NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme).
NSFAS provides bursaries to qualifying South African students to cover tuition, accommodation, and allowances. You must apply for it separately on the myNSFAS portal.