VerifiedTVET exams follow different calendars depending on the programme. The Department of Higher Education and Training sets national examination periods, but it had not published 2026 or 2027 national timetables on its website when we checked. Your college gives you your exact exam timetable.
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How exam periods work by programme
| Programme | Structure | When national exams are written |
|---|---|---|
| NC(V) Levels 2 to 4 | One academic year per level | End of the year; the 2025 DHET calendar showed final exams from 10 November to 11 December |
| NATED engineering N4 to N6 | Trimesters | At the end of each trimester |
| NATED business N4 to N6 | Semesters | At the end of each semester |
| Occupational programmes | Set per qualification | External integrated summative assessments, arranged with the QCTO |
Phase-out exam dates to know
- N3 engineering: Ekurhuleni West told returning students that Trimester 3 of 2025 was the last N3 national examination cycle.
- N4 to N6: colleges publish their last examination opportunities; for example, Sedibeng lists Business N6 finishing in Semester 1 of 2029 and Engineering N6 in Trimester 1 of 2028.
Where to find your timetable
- Your campus notice boards and student portal.
- Your lecturer or examination officer.
- The college website’s student notices.
Rumoured exam dates on social media are often from earlier years. Always confirm with your college examination office.
See Sedibeng teach-out dates and how long N4 to N6 takes.
Frequently asked questions
When are NC(V) exams written?
At the end of the academic year. In 2025, the DHET calendar showed final exams from 10 November to 11 December.
Where can I get my TVET exam timetable?
From your college: the student portal, notice boards or examination officer.