TVET Colleges 2026: Applications, Open Dates, and Results

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges are the ultimate gateway to highly demanded artisan, engineering, and business skills in South Africa. Every year, we see a massive surge in learners scrambling to secure spots or find their marks.

When Will TVET College Results Be Released for 2026?

The release dates for TVET college results depend heavily on the type of qualification you are pursuing. Unlike the National Senior Certificate (NSC) which has a single national release day, TVET results are categorized:

• National Certificate Vocational (NC(V)) Results: These results are typically processed by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and are released simultaneously with or shortly after the matric results. For the 2025/2026 academic crossover, expect your NC(V) Level 2, 3, and 4 results to be available in mid-to-late January 2026.
• NATED / Report 191 Results: Because NATED courses are run in Trimesters (Engineering) and Semesters (Business), results are released continuously throughout the year. Trimester results are usually released about 3 to 4 weeks after the final exam date.

"Waiting for results is stressful, but it's also the perfect time to strategize your next move. Whether you pass with flying colors or need to rethink your path, informed decisions start with knowing your innate skills."
— Dr. Lanette Hattingh, CEO of SkillsPassport

Which TVET Colleges Are Open for 2026 Applications?

One of the most frequent questions we receive is: "Are TVET colleges open for 2026?" The short answer is: It depends, but you must act fast.

Unlike universities that have rigid closing dates in September of the previous year, the 50 public TVET colleges in South Africa manage their own application cycles.

• First Semester / Annual Intake: Most application portals open in September and close between October and November of the preceding year. If you are reading this in January 2026, most mainstream NC(V) enrollments are closing or already closed. However, late applications or "walk-ins" are sometimes accepted if courses are not full.
• Trimester 2 & 3 (Engineering): Applications for Trimester 2 usually open in April/May, and Trimester 3 opens in August. So if you missed the January intake, you have more chances throughout the 2026 year!
• Semester 2 (Business): Applications usually open around May/June 2026.

To find the exact dates, you must check the specific college's website. We have compiled a massive directory of all 50 public TVET colleges in South Africa complete with their contact details.

How to Choose the Best TVET College and Course

Don't just apply anywhere or for any course just because it's open. The dropout rate at TVET colleges is high primarily because learners choose courses that do not align with their natural aptitudes.

Before you fill out that application form for Electrical Engineering or Financial Management, use the SkillsPassport methodology. Our scientifically validated assessments measure your spatial reasoning, mechanical insight, numerical capability, and personality to pinpoint exactly which vocational track will lead to your success.

Your skills are your passport to employment. Don't leave your 2026 TVET application up to chance!