While it might be too late to apply at most universities/colleges, there are a few that are still open, and those that have a late application inquiry period in January 2018. Here is a break-down of the various types of institutions in South Africa and the qualifications they offer.

1. Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges
These are colleges that focus on providing the knowledge and skills required to enter a specific range of occupations. The courses offered at these colleges combine education, training, skills development and practical training.  These courses are well balanced in that they provide theory and practical experience in order to enter into a specific vocation or profession.  TVET colleges offer two main types of qualifications: National Certificate Vocational (NC(V)) qualifications, at an NQF level 4 as well as National Certificates and National Introductory Certificates, at an NQF level 5.  There are currently 56 public TVET Colleges within South Africa.  After studying at a TVET college, a student will be able to enter the work force in their chosen field, or continue to study further at a University of Technology.

2. University of Technology
These institutions offer qualifications that are more focused on becoming technically qualified within a specific field. Most universities of technology offer national diplomas, at an NQF level 6, although students can study for an extra year and obtain a BTech degree, which is at NQF level 7. After studying at a University of Technology, a student will be able to enter the work force as an expert technician or artisan, or continue to study a postgraduate qualification or even a more theoretical degree at University.

3. University
A university is more academically focused on theoretical learning and academic research and offer academic and professional qualifications. Both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications are provided, ranging from short courses and diplomas to doctorate degrees - ranging from NQF level 6 to NQF level 10.  University qualifications allow students to enter into a wide range of professional fields in an academic capacity.


If your child has missed the application closing dated for their desired course, you might want to consider a gap year as an alternative.