Your options
Four paths beyond university
Each one leads to a real qualification and a job. Pick one to see the colleges, what they cost, and how to get in.
TVET Colleges
Public colleges that teach trades and real job skills. NSFAS can pay your fees. All 50 public colleges are listed.
ExploreCET Colleges
Community colleges for adults and young people not in school. Finish your matric or pick up new skills.
ExplorePrivate Colleges
Private study options. Always check the college is registered with the DHET before you pay any money.
ExploreSETAs & Learnerships
Get paid to learn on the job. A learnership mixes work and study, and ends with a real qualification.
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Money and next steps
Bursaries, NSFAS, and funding to help you pay for whichever path you choose.
Compare all 9 after-school routes
Universities, TVET, CET, private colleges, learnerships and more, compared side by side.
Learn moreFundingBursaries and funding
Bursary and funding options beyond NSFAS for South African students.
Learn moreFundingNSFAS guide
How to apply for NSFAS funding, step by step.
Learn moreWorried about fees?
NSFAS pays for TVET college too, and there are many bursaries. See what you can get.
See funding options