VerifiedSouth Africa and Zambia organise technical and vocational training differently. South Africa has 50 public TVET colleges under the Department of Higher Education and Training. In Zambia, training institutions are registered and regulated by TEVETA, the Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training Authority, a statutory agency under the Ministry of Technology and Science.
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Side by side
| South Africa | Zambia | |
|---|---|---|
| Regulator | DHET, with Umalusi and the QCTO for quality assurance | TEVETA, set up under the TEVET Act No. 13 of 1998 |
| Main public providers | 50 public TVET colleges | Public institutions such as Lusaka Business and Technical College, Evelyn Hone College, Northern Technical College and Kabwe Institute of Technology |
| Qualification levels | NC(V) Levels 2 to 4, N4 to N6 (being phased out), occupational qualifications | Level 3 Trade Test, Level 4 Craft, Level 5 Technician or Advanced Certificate, Level 6 Diploma |
| Public funding | NSFAS, for South African citizens and permanent residents | The Ministry of Technology and Science’s TEVET Bursary System |
Studying at a South African TVET college as a Zambian
- NSFAS is not an option. The NSFAS 2026 eligibility criteria limit funding to South African citizens and permanent residents with a valid South African ID.
- You need a study visa before you start. South African missions ask for an official letter of provisional acceptance from the college, stating the course duration.
- Proof of medical cover with a medical scheme registered in South Africa is also required for the whole study period.
- Have your Zambian school certificate evaluated by SAQA. From 1 April 2026 this costs R2,361 for the first qualification, and SAQA aims to finish within 90 calendar days.
- Expect to pay fees upfront. Mnambithi TVET College, for example, requires international students to pay in full at registration.
Checking a Zambian institution
TEVETA registers institutions and can cancel their registration. Its latest list, Gazette Notice No. 1284 of 2026, is on its downloads page and is updated quarterly. Institutions are graded One to Three; anything below Grade Three may not offer training at all.
If a college is not on the list, contact TEVETA on (0211) 253 331 or enquiries@teveta.org.zm before paying an application fee.
See what NSFAS funds in South Africa.
Frequently asked questions
Can Zambian students get NSFAS?
No. NSFAS funds only South African citizens and permanent residents.
Who regulates TVET in Zambia?
TEVETA, the Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training Authority.
Do Zambian certificates need SAQA evaluation for a South African TVET college?
Usually yes. Colleges such as Central Johannesburg and Mnambithi ask foreign applicants for a SAQA evaluation.