VerifiedBoth are public post-school institutions funded by government, and NSFAS supports eligible students at both. The difference is what they train you for: TVET colleges prepare you for a specific occupation or trade, while universities focus on academic and professional qualifications that need matric with a university-level pass.
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Side by side
| Public TVET college | Public university | |
|---|---|---|
| Number in South Africa | 50 colleges, over 300 campuses | 26 universities, including universities of technology |
| Main qualifications | NC(V), occupational certificates, trades, skills programmes | Higher certificates, diplomas, degrees, postgraduate study |
| Lowest entry point | Grade 9 for the NC(V) | Matric with a higher certificate, diploma or bachelor’s pass |
| Quality assurance | Umalusi (NC(V)) and the QCTO (occupational) | Council on Higher Education |
| NQF levels | Mostly 2 to 5 | 5 to 10 |
| Style of learning | Workshops, practicals and workplace learning | Lectures, research and theory, with practicals in some fields |
| Cost | Lower fees | Higher fees |
Which suits you?
- Choose a TVET college if you want to start working sooner, want a trade such as electrician or chef, or do not have matric.
- Choose a university if your career legally needs a degree, such as teaching, nursing, engineering or law, and you have the right matric pass.
- Combine them: NC(V) Level 4 can be used to apply to some university programmes, if you meet their requirements.
Funding at each
NSFAS rules differ slightly. In the 2026 criteria, continuing university students must pass 50% of their modules, while TVET students must pass 70% and meet subject rules per level. Both are limited to the normal study time plus one extra year or term. See NSFAS rules if you fail.
FET colleges and TVET colleges are the same institutions under a newer name. Private colleges are not TVET colleges and are not NSFAS-funded.
Frequently asked questions
Is a TVET college the same as a university?
No. TVET colleges offer vocational and occupational qualifications, mostly up to NQF Level 5, while universities offer degrees and other higher education qualifications.
Can I go to university after a TVET college?
Yes, if you meet the university’s entry requirements. Many universities consider NC(V) Level 4 with the right subjects and marks.