TVET Colleges in South Africa: 2026 Application Dates

Applying to a TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) college is a step toward gaining practical skills and career pathways after school. 

In South Africa, most public TVET colleges open online applications for the next academic year many months before classes start. 

For the 2026 academic year, application windows, deadlines, and intake schedules vary by institution and programme. 

When do TVET colleges open applications for 2026?

For the 2026 academic year, most TVET colleges in South Africa began accepting applications in the second half of 2025. 

Many institutions opened their portals during August 2025, giving applicants several months to gather documents and apply before deadlines in late 2025 or early 2026.

Some colleges may have opened earlier in June or July 2025 with rolling intake periods.

However, a nationwide trend shows most colleges concentrate application openings between August and September 2025.

What are the general closing dates for 2026 TVET college applications?

Closing dates differ by college and programme, but many public TVET colleges close applications between October and November 2025. 

A significant number also extended their application windows into January 2026, especially for students applying late or for specific programmes.

For example, some colleges set closing dates such as:

1. Sedibeng TVET College will close by 16 January 2026.
2. Majuba TVET College and Capricorn TVET College accept applications until 30 January 2026.
3. Other campuses across provinces may finish intake around mid‑January 2026.

These extended windows are common when institutions still have available spaces or when programmes operate on multiple intakes.

Do all TVET colleges use the same application dates?

No. TVET colleges in South Africa do not follow a uniform opening and closing schedule for applications. 

Each college sets its own dates based on capacity, funding intake, and programme structure.

While many colleges use a similar August–November 2025 window for 2026 intake, some open earlier or close later depending on demand.

Additionally, specific qualifications may have different intake cycles. 

For example, some occupational or skill‑based intakes may accept applications later in the year or even into early 2026.

Are application dates the same for NCV and NATED programmes?

Not always. TVET colleges offer different types of qualifications, and these can affect intake timing:

1. NCV (National Certificate Vocational) programmes usually follow a semester system with the main intake around the start of the year.
2. NATED (Report 191) Engineering and related programmes can operate on trimester cycles, resulting in multiple intakes throughout the year, including mid‑year opportunities.

This means if you miss the January or November intake for a particular course, you may still be able to apply for an alternative intake later in the same year, depending on the programme and college.

How long is the application window for TVET colleges?

Most public TVET colleges offer a long application window that can last several months. 

A typical pattern for 2026 is:

1. Opening: Around August–September 2025
2. Closing: Between October–November 2025
3. Extended/late closing: Some colleges until January 2026, when spaces are still available

Because of this, it is possible to apply late, but early applications are strongly recommended to improve your chances of securing placement in competitive programmes.

Should international students follow the same dates?

Yes. International applicants generally follow the same application dates as South African citizens, although they may need extra time to prepare supporting documents (such as SAQA evaluations for foreign qualifications). 

Each college will specify requirements on its official website. 

Always check with the specific institution you plan to apply to for exact international admission dates and procedures.

What happens after I submit my TVET application?

After you submit your application before the final deadline set by your chosen college, the institution will:

1. Review your documents to ensure you meet the minimum admission requirements.
2. Communicate application status via email or SMS.
3. Send instructions for registration if you are accepted.

Applicants should regularly check their email and the college’s student portal after applying.

Early applicants often receive responses sooner, while late applications may take longer to process.