Last chance: 2027 TVET college applications close this week

Young South Africans hoping to study at a public Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college next year have only just a few days left to apply. Applications for TVET colleges close on Wednesday 30 September 2026.

APPLICATIONS FOR TVET COLLEGES CLOSE THIS WEEK

Minister of Higher Education and Training in South Africa, Buti Manamela urged prospective students to apply to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges soon as the application closing date is 30 September. He warned that waiting until January could mean many opportunities are lost. He also pointed out that matriculants and other applicants can apply using their previous year’s results.

Manamela also emphasised the importance of TVET colleges in South Africa, saying that they are not second choices.

“We must change the way we think about TVET Colleges. They are not a second choicehey for young people who do not get admitted into a university”, he said. He also described TVET colleges as a key pathway in the post-school education and training system. He explained that government is working towards a system that links education and skills development to economic opportunities.

He also encouraged applicants to use the application period to explore their interests and assess different occupational offerings. Parents, guardians, teachers and Life Orientation teachers were urged to help young people make informed career choices.

DEADLINES, FUNDING AND MORE INFORMATION

The 30 September deadline is the national window, but colleges can differ. Each TVET college can publish its own application period, and dates may vary by programme, such as NC(V), occupational or apprenticeship courses. Some colleges also accept applications throughout the year, so it’s important to check with your college of choice.

Applying to a college and applying for financial aid are two different steps. NSFAS applications for the 2027 academic year opened on 18 September and close on 18 November, giving students more time to sort out funding. Manamela encouraged early applications so that students can verify their information, submit outstanding documents and seek help if they run into problems.

HOW TO APPLY

Information about TVET colleges is available directly from the colleges or through the Department of Higher Education and Training website. Before you apply, it helps to:

• Shortlist the colleges and programmes you’re interested in
• Keep your latest results and ID documents ready
• Confirm your chosen college’s specific closing date
• Apply for NSFAS funding as soon as you can

Take a look at the important dates every Matric learner should know here.