South Africa’s healthcare system depends on well-trained nurses.
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If you plan to study nursing and begin a healthcare career in 2026, choosing the right college is essential.
Nursing education in the country is regulated by the South African Nursing Council (SANC), and only accredited colleges and universities offering nursing programmes recognised by SANC lead to professional registration as a nurse.
These institutions include public nursing colleges, private nursing schools and university nursing faculties.
Top Public Nursing Colleges in South Africa
The largest and most recognised public nursing colleges provide government-funded training and strong clinical experience.
Some of the most reputable public nursing colleges that are open for applications in 2026 include:
- Lilitha College of Nursing in the Eastern Cape: one of the most established nursing colleges with multiple campuses and diploma options.
- KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing: Offering diploma and post-basic nursing courses across several campuses.
- Gauteng College of Nursing: It includes busy urban campuses like Chris Hani Baragwanath and Ann Latsky, is known for excellent clinical placements.
- Free State School of Nursing: With its campuses providing diploma and advanced midwifery programmes.
- Limpopo College of Nursing and Mpumalanga College of Nursing both offer full nursing diplomas.
These colleges train future nurses through hands-on hospital and community healthcare placements and are a popular choice for students looking to enter public healthcare facilities.
Which Private Nursing Colleges Are Highly Rated?
Private nursing colleges are often smaller institutions that provide practical training and industry partnerships, sometimes tied to private hospital groups.
Well-known private nursing colleges include:
- Netcare Education and Training Academy: which offers diplomas in nursing and auxiliary nursing alongside hospital-based clinical experience.
- Mediclinic Education & Training: known for post-basic nursing programmes and strong practical exposure.
- Life Healthcare College of Learning: spread across several campuses, with accredited nursing diplomas.
- Ukwazi School of Nursing: a SANC-accredited private nursing school with programs leading to professional nurse registration.
Private colleges often have entry requirements and fee structures that vary from public institutions, and while they may be more expensive, they frequently provide excellent clinical placements and hands-on experience.
What University Nursing Programmes Should I Consider?
Universities in South Africa offer nursing degrees such as Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNurs) or Bachelor of Nursing, which combine academic study with clinical training at partner hospitals.
Universities are ideal if you want a professional nursing qualification with broader career options.
Some of the top universities include:
- University of Cape Town (UCT), often ranked as the top institution for nursing in South Africa.
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), well-known for its nursing science faculty and research focus.
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), offers a rich clinical and community nursing programme.
- Stellenbosch University and the University of Pretoria both with strong nursing faculties and clinical training opportunities.
University nursing programmes are more academically oriented and generally require national benchmarking tests such as the NBTs in addition to good NSC results.
What Qualifications Do These Nursing Colleges Offer?
Nursing colleges and universities typically offer:
- Diploma in Nursing (three-year qualification leading to professional registration).
- Higher Certificate in Nursing or Auxiliary Nursing Certificates in some private institutions.
- University degrees (BNurs), which may provide broader roles and leadership opportunities.
All programmes must be accredited by SANC for graduates to register as professional nurses and practise legally in South Africa.
How Do I Choose the Right Nursing College in 2026?
When selecting a college, consider:
- Accreditation by the South African Nursing Council so your qualification is recognised.
- Clinical exposure and hospital partnerships to ensure real-world experience.
- Tuition fees and funding options, including whether the college qualifies for NSFAS support.
- Location and campus resources, such as simulation labs and student support.
Visiting the college website or admissions office can provide specific information on entry requirements, application deadlines, and programme structures.
Which Nursing Colleges Are Still Accepting 2026 Applications?
Several colleges have open or recently open application windows for 2026 nursing courses. For example:
- Limpopo College of Nursing (closing 30 November 2025).
- Mpumalanga College of Nursing with open applications.
- KZN College of Nursing, with a national diploma intake.
- Henrietta Stockdale Nursing College and Mpilo Royal College offering diploma and higher certificate options.
Deadlines vary by institution and programme, so check the official college or university admissions page before applying.
What Are Career Path Options After Nursing College?
Graduating from a recognised nursing college or university opens up a range of careers including:
- Professional Nurse in public or private hospitals.
- Community Health Nurse in clinics and rural health centres.
- Midwife or specialized nurse after further training.
- Educational or administrative roles within healthcare settings.
A professional nursing qualification equips you with both theoretical knowledge and clinical skills valued across South Africa’s health sector.