List of TVET Colleges That Accept Grade 9 Students in South Africa
If you’ve completed Grade 9 and are wondering what your next step could be, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges in South Africa might be the answer. These institutions offer hands-on, skills-based education for students who want to enter the workforce quickly or follow a vocational career path.
Can You Go to a TVET College After Grade 9?
Yes, you can. One of the unique features of public TVET colleges in South Africa is that they accept students who have completed Grade 9, making them accessible to early school leavers. Whether you’ve passed Grade 9, 10, 11, or matric (Grade 12), there’s a place for you in the TVET system.
According to multiple credible sources, including government education portals and TVET college websites, it is likely that all 50 public TVET colleges across South Africa accept Grade 9 students.
Why Consider a TVET College?
TVET colleges provide an alternative to traditional academic paths by focusing on job-ready skills. Their programs combine theory with 60% practical training in fields like:
- Engineering
- Construction
- Information Technology
- Hospitality
- Business Studies
- Education and Training
- Agriculture
- Health and Social Services
These colleges aim to equip students with skills that are in high demand, helping them secure employment or start their own businesses.
NSFAS Funding Is Available
One of the best things about enrolling in a TVET college is that NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) funding is available for qualifying students. NSFAS covers tuition, accommodation, transport, and meals for students whose combined household income is R350,000 or less per year.
Partial List of TVET Colleges That Accept Grade 9 Students
Here’s a partial list of TVET colleges across different provinces in South Africa. All of these accept students with Grade 9 qualifications:
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 TVET College
- Elangeni TVET College
- Esayidi TVET College
- Majuba TVET College
- Mnambithi TVET College
- Mthashana TVET College
📝 Note: This is a partial list. For the full list of 50 TVET colleges across South Africa, visit the official Department of Higher Education and Training website.
Application Process
TVET colleges allow you to apply online through their websites or platforms like admissionportal.coltech.co.za. Application periods vary by institution, but many are open for 2025 second semester.
Conclusion
If you’ve passed Grade 9 and are looking for a meaningful and practical way to continue your education, a TVET college might be the perfect fit. With flexible entry requirements, job-focused training, and government financial aid, TVET colleges offer a powerful stepping stone into skilled employment and further study.