As a Matric student, one of the most challenging decisions you will have to make is to choose where you will complete your tertiary studies. There are many factors to consider, such as location and price (just to name a few).
It’s important to note that not everyone will be accepted into South African public universities (this could be for many reasons, such as an inadequate APS score) Therefore, studying at a private institution may be a better option.
Why should you choose a Private College?
With so many accredited and praised South African Universities, why should one choose to study at college? For starters, enrolling at a college is a lot easier than universities as colleges have requirements that are less strict. This allows anyone to engage in tertiary studies and establish a solid foundation for a professional career.
SA Private Colleges
While some students may prefer to complete their studies at universities, others might prefer colleges. If you choose the latter, it is important to know what institutions are available in your area, their location, the costs, and the admission process.
To aid you in in your decision making:
Here is a list of Registered South African Private Colleges
Here is a list of Registered South African Private Higher Education Institutions (the list was last updated on 3 May 2023)
Here is a list of Registered South African Public TVET Colleges
How to check the credibility of a college
Owing to colleges being so affordable and many people seeking an education, there are unfortunate cases of many falling for scams with their chosen college not being accredited. Therefore, it is vital that before you apply to any college, you do ample research to ensure that the college is registered. If you study at an institution that is not registered, your qualification will be invalid. To avoid disappointment and wasting any money, be sure to follow these two steps:
1. Check the accreditation status
Is your potential college registered and accredited? In order for a college to be accredited and for your acquired qualification to be recognised, the college has to be registered with the DHET. It’s important to note that Private Colleges (not public institutions) can also be accredited with Umalusi. Should your chosen college not have their accreditation advertised on their website, it’s best not to consider it.
2. Check the accreditation status of the courses the college offers
Some courses colleges offer, such as NATED courses, may be accredited. However, it is vital that your college display which courses they offer and what accreditation they have. Some colleges do have self-created courses (also known as provider programmes) which often do not have accreditation. Therefore, should your chosen college not state their course accreditation (or only seem to have provider programmes) then it’s best to keep looking, as these courses can not be used for university applications. On the flip side, provider programmes may help you in job hunting as it can improve your CV and help you gain a new skill set (there are both pros and cons.)