How do I check if a private college is registered with DHET in South Africa?
Cross-check the college name and registration number against the official DHET Register of Private Colleges. The registration number format is YYYY/FExx/NNN. Section B of the register lists currently-registered private colleges; Section A lists colleges whose registration has been cancelled. Confirm the qualification on the SAQA NQF register at allqs.saqa.org.za. If anything looks off, email PCComplaints1@dhet.gov.za.
Let's verify before any money moves. The most common SA private-education scam is an unregistered or cancelled college that collects fees, then the qualification turns out not to be recognised. A 5-minute check saves you from that.
5-step verification process
- 1
Find the college name on the DHET register
Open the DHET Register of Private Colleges (linked below) and search for the college name. Currently registered colleges sit in Section B. If the college only appears in Section A, DHET has cancelled its registration, and it's safer not to enrol.
- 2
Match the registration number
Every registered private college has a number in the format YYYY/FExx/NNN. The college you're considering should be able to show you this number on its prospectus or website. Confirm it matches the entry in Section B.
Advertisement
- 3
Confirm the qualification on SAQA
Open allqs.saqa.org.za and search for the qualification (like "National Certificate Vocational"). Each registered qualification has an NQF level and SAQA ID. Make sure the qualification you're being offered is on the register and not expired.
- 4
Check the site of delivery
The DHET register lists each college's approved sites of delivery. Confirm the campus where you'll actually study is one of the approved sites. Some private colleges operate from multiple campuses; only registered sites can legally offer the programmes.
- 5
If something feels off, report it
DHET takes complaints about unregistered colleges seriously. Email PCComplaints1@dhet.gov.za with the college name, the qualification offered and any documentation you've received. It's safer to hold off paying any fee until you're satisfied the college is legitimate.
Where to find the official lists
Official PDF, updated regularly. Section A (cancelled) and Section B (currently registered). Covers FET-level private colleges offering Engineering N1-N3, NCV and AET.
Open the register →Private Higher Education Institutions (like IIE Varsity College, Eduvos, MANCOSA, Boston, Damelin, Lyceum, Milpark). Quality-assured by the CHE. Offers Higher Certificates, Diplomas and Degrees.
Open the PHEI register →Verify any qualification on the National Qualifications Framework. Search by name, SAQA ID or NQF level. Confirm the qualification is current and registered.
Search SAQA →If you suspect a private college is operating without registration or has cancelled registration, email DHET with the college name and any documentation you have.
PCComplaints1@dhet.gov.za →Frequently asked questions
Advertisement
Related
Related
Compare TVET, CET, and other options before you choose a private college.
Compare all 9 after-school routes
Universities, TVET, CET, private colleges, learnerships and more, compared side by side.
Learn moreStudy OptionsTVET, CET, private colleges and SETAs
Compare all the non-university study routes in South Africa.
Learn moreCareersStudy without matric
Honest options without matric: TVET, learnerships and how to get your matric for free.
Learn more