Verified against DHET TVET register & nationalgovernment.co.za (2026)
Published by NavyBlue Editorial Team
- Head office
- Goodwood, Cape TownWestern Cape
- Official website
- www.northlink.co.za
- Phone
- 021 970 9000
What is Northlink TVET College?
Northlink TVET College is one of South Africa's 50 public TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges. Its head office is in Goodwood, Cape Town, Western Cape. It is registered and accredited by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and offers NCV, NATED N1-N6 and Occupational Programmes. Eligible students are funded through NSFAS.
Courses at Northlink
Northlink offers NC(V) programmes, NATED N1 to N6, and occupational trade qualifications. See the full list, with entry requirements and the careers each one leads to.
See Northlink courses →How to apply to Northlink
Applying to a TVET college can feel confusing the first time, but the steps are the same at every public TVET. Take them one at a time and keep certified copies of your documents ready.
- 1
Choose your programme
Find the NC(V), NATED or occupational programme that fits you. See Northlink courses, and confirm the subjects, duration and campus.
- 2
Gather your documents
A certified copy of your South African ID, your latest school report (Grade 9 to 12, depending on the programme), and proof of residence.
- 3
Submit your application
Apply on the official Northlink website or in person at the nearest campus. Applications usually open early in the year, on a rolling basis until the trimester or semester starts. Open the Northlink site.
- 4
Apply for NSFAS funding
NSFAS funding is a separate process. Apply at www.nsfas.org.za between September and January if your combined household income is R350 000 or less.
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What students found
Northlink does not publish this, so students report it to each other.
Frequently asked questions
What is Northlink TVET College?
Northlink TVET College is one of South Africa's 50 public TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges, with its head office in Goodwood, Cape Town, Western Cape. It is registered and accredited by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and offers NCV, NATED N1-N6 and Occupational Programmes.
What courses does Northlink offer?
Like every SA public TVET, Northlink runs three main streams. NCV sits at NQF Levels 2-4, full time over 3 years, and is equivalent to matric. NATED (Report 191) covers N1 to N6 trimester-based occupational programmes. Occupational Programmes lead to specific trade qualifications. Subjects usually include Engineering Studies, Business Studies, IT, Hospitality, Office Administration and Education and Development. Check the official Northlink site for exact programmes.
How do I apply to Northlink?
Applying for the first time feels confusing, but the steps are short. Apply directly on the Northlink official site (www.northlink.co.za), an online application portal or in person at the nearest campus. Bring a certified copy of your ID, your latest school report and proof of residence. Applications roll through the year, but popular programmes fill early.
Does Northlink accept NSFAS?
Yes. Northlink is a public TVET and fully NSFAS-funded. If your combined household income is R350 000 or less, you get free tuition plus accommodation, transport and learning materials. Apply for NSFAS at www.nsfas.org.za between September and January each year.
Does Northlink require APS?
Most TVET programmes don't use the standard university APS. NCV needs Grade 9 or higher. NATED N1 needs Grade 9 or relevant subjects; N4 needs matric or equivalent. Some Occupational Programmes have specific subject requirements. Check the Northlink prospectus for exact details on the programme you want.
When can I apply to Northlink for 2027?
Applications for the 2027 intake usually open in the second half of the year before, and some programmes take applications through the year. Northlink announces the exact dates on its official site (www.northlink.co.za). Apply as early as you can, because popular courses fill up fast.
Is it free to apply to Northlink?
In most cases, yes. Public TVET colleges like Northlink usually do not charge an application fee, so applying is free. You may only pay a registration fee once you are accepted, and NSFAS can cover your fees if you qualify. Always confirm on the official Northlink site.
Where is Northlink?
Northlink TVET College is in Western Cape, with its head office in Goodwood, Cape Town. Like most TVET colleges, it runs several campuses across the province, so you can usually find one near you. Check the official site for the full campus list and addresses.
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