Thekwini TVET College is a major vocational education institution serving the Durban metropolitan area and surrounding communities. Operating six campuses strategically distributed within a 10-kilometer radius of central Durban, Thekwini provides accessible quality technical and vocational training to thousands of students annually.
The college specializes in delivering National Certificate (Vocational), NATED, and occupational qualifications across diverse economic sectors. Thekwini maintains robust partnerships with employers, industry associations, and community development organizations, ensuring curriculum relevance and graduate employment success.
Trimester 2, 2026 Application Period: For mid-year intake in April/May 2026, applications are accepted from 30 March to 15 April 2026. Submit your application and required documents before 15 April 2026 to secure your place.
Annual Application Period: For the primary January intake, the standard application window typically opens in May and closes in August/September. Check www.thekwini.edu.za for current year specific dates.
Intake Schedules: The college operates three intake periods: January (Trimester 1), April/May (Trimester 2), and August/September (Trimester 3).
Late Application Consideration: After the official deadline, limited spaces may remain available. Contact admissions to inquire about late application possibilities.
NSFAS Timeline Reminder: Submit your NSFAS application to www.nsfas.org.za before the November closing date to secure funding for the following academic year.
NCV Programme Fees: National Certificate (Vocational) qualifications at Thekwini range from R1,000 to R19,000 annually, depending on programme level and specialization. Entry-level NCV 2 programmes cost approximately R1,000-R5,000 per year. Advanced NCV 3 and 4 qualifications range R8,000-R19,000 annually.
NATED Programme Fees: NATED qualifications operate on a semester basis for business programmes and a trimester system for engineering. NATED fees typically range R3,500-R8,000 per semester or trimester.
No Application Fee: Thekwini charges no application fee. You pay only tuition once admitted.
Payment Options: Full payment at course commencement or monthly installment plans are available through the Finance Office. Students approved for NSFAS have fees covered entirely from their NSFAS allocation.
Educational Prerequisites: Applicants must have completed at least Grade 9 (Form 3) or equivalent. Grade 11 or Grade 12 completion is preferred for most programmes.
Required Documentation: Submit original certified copy of your national ID or valid passport. Provide certified copies of your latest academic results. Proof of residence is required for verification.
Programme-Specific Requirements: Engineering and NATED programmes typically require Grade 11 completion with mathematics and science exposure. Business qualifications require Grade 10 minimum. Tourism and Hospitality programmes welcome Grade 9+ applicants.
Age Considerations: While no specific age limit exists, Thekwini encourages applicants aged 16-35 to apply. Mature learners are welcome.
NSFAS Eligibility: Thekwini TVET College is fully registered with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Students from households with combined family income below the NSFAS threshold automatically qualify for funding. NSFAS covers 100% of approved students’ tuition fees plus provides monthly living allowances for accommodation, meals, and transport.
NSFAS Application and Process: Register for NSFAS funding at www.nsfas.org.za during the official application window (typically August-November annually). Submit your college admission letter from Thekwini along with proof of household income and certified ID copies.
Award and Disbursement: Once NSFAS approves your funding, funds are transferred directly to the college to cover your tuition. Monthly living allowances are deposited to your personal bank account. No repayment is required—NSFAS funding is a grant, not a loan.
For Non-NSFAS Applicants: Students not qualifying for NSFAS can arrange installment payment plans with the Finance Office. Additionally, explore employer sponsorship, provincial education bursaries, and NGO support programmes.
Thekwini operates six campuses strategically located within 10 kilometers of central Durban:
Asherville Campus: Serving the northern Durban region with comprehensive programme offerings and modern facilities.
Cato Manor Campus: Located in Cato Manor, providing vocational training to surrounding communities.
Centec Campus: A major hub offering extensive programme variety and advanced practical training facilities.
Melbourne Campus: Situated in the Melbourne area, serving eastern Durban communities.
Springfield Campus: Located in Springfield, offering accessible education to diverse learner populations.
Umbilo Campus: Serving the southern Durban region with quality vocational qualifications and student support services.
All six campuses are accessible by public transport, with adequate parking for private vehicles.
Online Application via Coltech: All applications are processed through Coltech. Visit www.thekwini.coltech.co.za to access the online application system.
Application Steps: Create your online account using your email address. Complete the application form with personal details, educational background, and employment history. Select your preferred campus. Choose your desired course and level. Upload required certified documents. Review and submit electronically.
In-Person Application Support: Visit the main office at 425 Dr Pixley Kaseme Street (West Street), 2nd Floor, HUB Building, Durban during business hours for assistance.
Application Confirmation: Upon successful submission, you receive an immediate email confirmation with your application reference number. Admissions staff review your application and contact you within 5-7 business days.
For admissions assistance, programme information, fees inquiries, and NSFAS guidance, contact Thekwini TVET College:
Official Website: www.thekwini.edu.za
Online Application Portal: www.thekwini.coltech.co.za
Main Administrative Office: 425 Dr Pixley Kaseme Street (West Street), 2nd Floor, HUB Building, Durban
Telephone: Call the main switchboard during business hours (Monday-Friday, 08:00-16:00)
Email: Submit inquiries through the official website contact form
Campus Visits: Visit any of the six campuses during business hours to tour facilities, meet admissions staff, and discuss your educational options.
National Certificate (Vocational) – NCV: Comprehensive three-year programmes at NQF Levels 2, 3, and 4, providing foundational and advanced vocational qualifications. NCV programmes combine classroom instruction with practical laboratory and workshop training.
NATED Engineering and Business Programmes: Advanced qualifications serving students seeking specialized engineering or business administration training. NATED engineering programmes cover civil, electrical, mechanical, and chemical engineering. NATED business qualifications develop management, accounting, and commerce expertise.
Occupational Qualifications: Practical, competency-based qualifications aligned with specific occupations including welding, electrical installation, plumbing, automotive repair, hospitality service, and tourism management.
Programme Diversity: Thekwini offers qualifications in Business Administration, Engineering, Hospitality and Tourism, Information Technology, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Education and Public Management.