Durban Public Colleges: Full List of Institutions

Durban, in the province of KwaZulu‑Natal, has several public vocational and technical colleges known as TVET colleges. 

These institutions offer National Certificate Vocational (NCV) and NATED (Report 191) programmes that combine practical skills with classroom learning. 

The colleges serve a range of students, from those finishing school to adults seeking new skills or career changes. 

TVET colleges in Durban focus on preparing learners for work and further study in fields like engineering, business, hospitality, and electrical and mechanical trades. 

They also often work with industry partners and may provide access to funded support such as NSFAS for qualifying students.

What Public Colleges Are in Durban?

Durban’s main public colleges are part of South Africa’s Further Education and Training (FET) system. 

The main TVET colleges with campuses in or around Durban include:

1. Coastal TVET College
2. Elangeni TVET College
3. Esayidi TVET College
4. Thekwini TVET College.

Where Are the TVET Colleges in Durban Located?

Coastal TVET College in Durban is one of the largest TVET colleges in the region. 

It operates multiple campuses, including the Durban Campus in Umbilo, the Swinton Campus in Mobeni, and others such as Appelsbosch, As‑Salaam, Ubuhle Bogu, Umlazi‑BB and Umlazi‑V.

Elangeni TVET College has several campuses serving the greater Durban area, including Inanda, KwaDabeka, KwaMashu, Mpumalanga, Ndwedwe, Ntuzuma, and Pinetown.

Esayidi TVET College is based near Durban’s south coast in Port Shepstone and also serves students from the Durban metro with programmes in hospitality and business.

Thekwini TVET College operates multiple campuses across Durban, including Asherville, Cato Manor, Centec, Melbourne, Springfield, and Umbilo.

What Programmes Do Durban TVET Colleges Offer?

TVET colleges in Durban provide a wide range of programmes. These include:

1. National Certificate Vocational (NCV) courses in fields like business studies, hospitality, tourism, civil engineering, electrical infrastructure, and information technology. NCV programmes are typically three years long and are suitable for students who have completed Grade 9 or higher.
   
2. NATED (Report 191) courses covering trade skills and technical subjects such as electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, business management and office administration. These courses are more flexible for students with a Grade 12 certificate.

Colleges also offer skills programmes and occupational qualifications that can be shorter and focused on specific trades or practical skills.

How Do I Apply to a Public College in Durban?

Applications for TVET colleges typically open early in the year and close later in the year for the next academic cycle. 

Most colleges offer an online application process through their official websites. 

Applicants must complete forms and provide certified copies of their ID, school results, and proof of residence. 

Each college may also have its own closing date and additional requirements.

For example, Elangeni TVET College and Coastal TVET College both accept online applications via their respective portals. 

Prospective students should check the official college site to confirm deadlines and requirements.

Which Colleges in Durban Are Open for 2026?

For the 2026 academic year, the TVET colleges accepting applications include Coastal TVET College, Elangeni TVET College, Esayidi TVET College, and Thekwini TVET College. 

These colleges welcome new applicants into NCV and NATED programmes.

Other KwaZulu‑Natal public colleges such as Mnambithi TVET College, Umfolozi TVET College, and Umgungundlovu TVET College also accept applications, but their main campuses are outside Durban and serve broader regional areas.

How Do I Know If a Programme Is Right for Me?

When choosing a TVET college programme, consider your interests and career goals. 

Business and hospitality courses are suitable if you enjoy working with people and managing operations. 

Engineering and technical trades are more hands‑on and ideal if you like practical problem-solving. 

Many colleges also offer information technology and computer science courses for students interested in digital skills.

Talk to an admissions officer at the college you are interested in to get advice on entry requirements and the career paths available. 

Each college website provides detailed programme descriptions and contact information for student offices.

What Funding Support Is Available for TVET Students in Durban?

Public TVET college students may qualify for financial support through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) if they meet the eligibility criteria. 

Some campuses, such as those at Thekwini TVET College and Mnambithi TVET College, have multiple NSFAS‑funded sites and support services that help learners cover tuition and study costs.

Students should visit the NSFAS website or the college funding office to apply and find out what costs the funding will cover. 

Support may include tuition, allowances for books and travel, and living costs.