Nursing is a noble and essential profession that offers countless opportunities to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. If you are passionate about healthcare and are considering a future in nursing, this is the perfect time to take the next step. Applications for the 2026 academic year are now open at several nursing colleges and universities across South Africa.
Types of Nursing Qualifications in South Africa
South Africa offers several pathways into the nursing profession. The main types of nursing qualifications include:
Senior Certificate in Nursing
Requires an APS of 16 points at the end of Matric, with at least 40% in English or a home language and 50% in Life Science or Biology.
Diploma in Nursing
Applicants must have passing grades in Mathematics, English, a Home Language, Life Orientation, and Life Science.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
A four-year degree that requires passes in Mathematics, English, a First/Home Language, Life Orientation, and Life Science.
Nursing Colleges and Application Dates
Several public nursing colleges have already opened their applications for 2026. Below is a summary of the application windows and programmes offered:
Open Now for 2026 Applications:
- Ukwazi School of Nursing
Applications are currently open and will close on 30 June 2025. Programmes available include the Higher Certificate in Nursing and the Diploma in Nursing. - Western Cape College of Nursing
Applications opened on 5 May 2025. - Free State School of Nursing
Applications are open and will close on 1 August 2025. Programmes include a Diploma in Nursing, an Advanced Diploma in Midwifery, and a Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing.
Not Yet Open:
- KZN College of Nursing
Applications open on 1 August 2025. Offers the National Diploma in Nursing. - Gauteng College of Nursing
Application dates are yet to be confirmed.
Private Nursing Colleges and Hospital-Based Programmes
Private colleges and hospitals also provide high-quality nursing education. Some of the prominent private institutions include:
- Mediclinic
Applications for 2026 are currently open. - Life Healthcare
Applications will be open between June and August 2025. - Netcare Faculty of Nursing
Applications are not yet open.
Other notable private training providers include Amplats Medical Services, Healthnicon, and various hospital-based programmes. It’s recommended to contact your nearest hospital or private college for detailed application information.
University Nursing Programmes
A number of universities across South Africa offer undergraduate nursing degrees. Applications for the 2026 academic year are open at many institutions, including:
- University of Johannesburg
- Stellenbosch University
- University of the Free State
- North-West University
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- Tshwane University of Technology
- Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
- University of Cape Town
- University of Limpopo
- Nelson Mandela University
- University of Pretoria
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
- Durban University of Technology
- University of the Western Cape
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- University of Zululand
- Vaal University of Technology
- University of Venda
Other institutions such as Unisa, Walter Sisulu University, and the University of Fort Hare will be opening their applications soon.
What Happens After You Graduate?
Once you complete your nursing qualification, you must complete a one-year mandatory community service placement. You will also be required to register with the South African Nursing Council (SANC), which includes passing a professional examination.
There are three main types of nurses in South Africa:
- Registered Nurses (Nursing Sisters): Supervise other nurses and perform a wide range of duties.
- Enrolled Nurses: Provide nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse.
- Enrolled Nursing Auxiliaries: Handle basic nursing procedures and patient care tasks.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements and programme lengths vary depending on the type of nursing programme and the institution. Generally, applicants must have strong academic results in core subjects like Mathematics, English, Life Orientation, and Life Science. It is crucial to check the specific requirements of the institution you wish to apply to.
Start Your Nursing Journey Today
Becoming a nurse is more than just a career choice—it’s a calling. With 2026 applications now open at many institutions, this is the ideal time to begin the process. Be sure to apply early and prepare all necessary documentation to secure your place in one of South Africa’s vital healthcare training programmes
