eta College is a private higher education institution in South Africa pioneering sport management education, fitness training, and recreation management since 1983. Originally founded as the Exercise Teachers Academy by Professor Tim Noakes, Malcolm Marrisson, Rob Cowling, and Linda Halliday, eta College has grown into an internationally recognized leader in sports science education.
As a CHE-accredited institution (Council on Higher Education), eta College offers comprehensive degree programmes, diplomas, and certificates designed to equip students with theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and work-integrated learning. The college operates 9 campuses across South Africa plus online learning facilities, serving over 10,000 graduates.
eta College’s distinctive “Total Immersion” approach combines theoretical instruction, practical hands-on training, and work-based learning, making its sport science courses world-famous for producing employment-ready graduates.
eta College is committed to making quality sport science education affordable and accessible.
- NSFAS Funding: Grants to eligible South African students covering tuition plus living allowances
- Employer Sponsorship: Many sport and fitness organizations sponsor employees pursuing professional development
- Private Bursaries and Scholarships: Merit-based and need-based bursary programmes from various organizations
- Payment Plans: Flexible arrangements allowing installment payments throughout the academic year
- Work-Study Opportunities: The work-integrated learning model provides paid placement opportunities
- Education Loans: Financial institutions provide education loans for higher education qualifications
Students are encouraged to explore multiple funding sources simultaneously. Contact your nearest eta College campus for personalized guidance on available funding options for 2026.
eta College operates 9 strategically located campuses across South Africa:
- Bloemfontein – Ramblers Sports Club, 40 Alexandra Avenue
- Cape Town – WPCC, Ave de Mist, Rondebosch
- Durban – Human Performance Institute, Moses Mabhida Stadium
- East London – Hamilton Sports Club, 1 Cleverdon Road
- George – Eco Stop Centre, Block B, C J Langenhoven St
- Johannesburg – Randburg Sports Complex, Malibongwe Drive
- Port Elizabeth – 36 Mangold Street, Newton Park
- Pretoria – Supersport Park, 1st Floor West Block, Centurion
- Stellenbosch – Unit 19, Oewer Park, Rokewood Rd
All campuses feature modern sports facilities, computer laboratories, and student amenities. Online and distance learning programmes are also available for flexible access to CHE-accredited qualifications.
Applying to eta College is straightforward with online and in-person options available.
- Visit the official eta College website and navigate to the online application portal
- Create your account and select your intended programme and campus location
- Complete the application form with personal, educational, and contact information
- Upload supporting documents (certified NSC copy, identity document)
- Review your application for accuracy and submit
- Receive confirmation email with application reference number
- Monitor your application status through the online portal
- Await admission decision notification
Applicants can also visit their nearest eta College campus for in-person application assistance. For 2026 applications, apply as early as possible to secure your preferred programme and campus.
Key dates for the 2026 academic year at eta College:
- January 2026: Commencement of first semester programmes
- March 2026: Mid-year intake window for selected programmes
- May 2026: Commencement of second semester programmes
- July 2026: Midyear examinations and assessments
- October 2026: Final examinations and academic assessments
- November 2026: Results release and graduation ceremonies
Online applications for 2026 are now open. Contact your nearest eta College campus for detailed programme-specific application deadlines and start dates.
eta College offers competitive and transparent tuition fees for its CHE-accredited programmes.
Fee guidelines by programme level (2026):
- Undergraduate Degrees: Approximately R2,500 – R4,500 per academic year
- Diplomas: Typically R2,500 – R4,000 annually
- Higher Certificates: Generally R1,500 – R2,500 per year
- Advanced Certificates: Starting from R1,200 per annum
The institution accepts various payment arrangements and works with learners to establish sustainable payment plans. Students can access NSFAS funding, employer sponsorships, private bursaries, and education loans. Contact your nearest campus for detailed fee schedules.
eta College welcomes diverse applicants with transparent admission criteria aligned with CHE standards.
Admission requirements by programme level:
- Bachelor Degree (NQF Level 7): NSC with bachelor degree admission; minimum 30% in English; rating of 4 or better in four recognized 20-credit subjects
- Diploma (NQF Level 6): NSC or equivalent with minimum 40% overall; English minimum 40%
- Higher Certificate (NQF Level 5): NSC or equivalent with minimum 30% overall; English minimum 40%
- Advanced Certificate (NQF Level 4): Grade 12 completion or equivalent
International applicants should contact eta College for qualification equivalency. The college also considers Prior Learning Recognition (RPL) for candidates with relevant professional experience.
eta College offers diverse accredited sport education programs from certificates to bachelor’s degrees, available in face-to-face and distance learning modes.
- Bachelor of Management in Sport and Leisure (SAQA ID 112053) – 3-year degree
- Bachelor of Exercise in Sport and Leisure (SAQA ID 118403) – 3-year degree
- Bachelor of Exercise: Sport Science – 3-year comprehensive programme
- Diploma in Sport and Recreation Management – 3-year programme
- Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science – 3-year specialized training
- Higher Certificates in Sports, Recreation and Fitness Management – 1-year programmes
All programmes are internationally benchmarked and provide NQF-accredited qualifications. The college offers 25 distinct courses across its campus network.
eta College maintains 9 campuses across South Africa:
Bloemfontein: +27 51 444 0850 | bloemfontein@etacollege.com
Cape Town: +27 21 671 1060 | capetown@etacollege.com
Durban: +27 31 701 8921 | durban@etacollege.com
East London: eastlondon@etacollege.com
George: +27 44 873 0842 | george@etacollege.com
Johannesburg: +27 11 791 6565 | johannesburg@etacollege.com
Port Elizabeth: +27 41 364 0466 | portelizabeth@etacollege.com
Pretoria: +27 12 663 1296 | pretoria@etacollege.com
Stellenbosch: +27 21 886 7513 | stellenbosch@etacollege.com