Gauteng Department of Health is offering a chance for you to start a nursing career right now. The department invites eligible South African applicants who live in Gauteng to apply for the 2027 Gauteng College of Nursing Diploma in Nursing intake.
What the opportunity is
The Gauteng College of Nursing will run a Diploma in Nursing programme for the 2027 academic year. You will attend classroom teaching and complete practical training in Gauteng public hospitals and clinics. On successful completion you can register with the South African Nursing Council and begin working as a professional nurse.
Who can apply
To be considered you must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Live in Gauteng Province
- Create a profile on the Gauteng Professional Job Centre system
- Submit an online application before the closing date
- Meet the academic criteria listed below
Academic pathways
You may qualify with one of the following:
- Senior Certificate
- National Senior Certificate (NSC)
- National Vocational Certificate (NVC) in Primary Health
- Current Grade 12 enrolment – you must already have the required Grade 11 results
Senior Certificate requirements
- English: HG D or SG C
- Biology: HG D or SG C
- Mathematics: HG D or SG C
- M‑Score of at least 17
National Senior Certificate requirements
- English – Level 4
- Life Sciences – Level 4
- Mathematics – Level 4 (or Mathematical Literacy – Level 5)
- Overall APS of at least 27 (Life Orientation counts as half its points)
National Vocational Certificate requirements
You need at least 50 % in the fundamental subjects (English First Additional Language, Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, Life Orientation) and at least 60 % in the vocational subjects (South African Health Care System, Public Health, The Human Body and Mind, Community Oriented Primary Care).
Current Grade 12 learners
If you are in Grade 12 you may apply using your final Grade 11 results, provided they meet the NSC admission standards shown above.
What you will gain
The diploma gives you:
- Qualified status to register with the South African Nursing Council
- Hands‑on experience in public hospitals and clinics
- Skills in patient care, communication, problem‑solving and teamwork
- Employment opportunities in Gauteng’s public health sector after graduation
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Visit the official application portal: https://nursingintake.gauteng.gov.za/
- Register a profile on the Gauteng Professional Job Centre system if you have not done so already.
- Log in and fill in every required field in the online application form.
- Upload clear, scanned copies of your qualification documents (Senior Certificate, NSC, NVC, Grade 12 results or Grade 11 results as applicable).
- Check that your contact details are correct.
- Submit the application before 23:59 on 30 October 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that all required subjects meet the listed grades before you apply.
- Ensure your APS calculation includes Life Orientation at half points.
- Keep your Gauteng Professional Job Centre profile up to date – missing information can delay shortlisting.
- Prepare a tidy PDF of each document; poor‑quality scans are often rejected.
- Be ready to attend the selection centre for verification, psychometric tests, medical checks and document validation if you are shortlisted.
- Highlight any voluntary work, caring experience or leadership roles in your personal statement – the selection panel looks for the personal attributes listed below.
Personal attributes the selectors look for
- Passion for nursing
- Compassion and empathy
- Honesty and integrity
- Patience and calmness under pressure
- Problem‑solving ability
- Leadership and organisational skills
- Flexibility and willingness to work shifts, weekends and public holidays
- Good communication, numeracy and computer literacy
- Strong study habits and the ability to work well with others
Selection process
Shortlisted candidates may be invited to a selection centre where you could be asked to complete:
- Psychometric assessment
- Medical surveillance and physical examination
- Verification of qualifications and supporting documents
Meeting all selection stages does not guarantee admission; the final decision rests with the Gauteng Department of Health.
Documents you will need to upload
- Senior Certificate or National Senior Certificate result slip
- National Vocational Certificate (if applicable)
- Grade 12 statement of results or final Grade 11 results for current Grade 12 learners
If you are shortlisted you must bring the original documents to the verification centre.
Programme commitments
When you are accepted you will have to:
- Sign an agreement with the Gauteng Department of Health
- Attend all lectures and complete Work Integrated Learning
- Finish clinical placements in Gauteng public hospitals and clinics
- Work shifts, including nights, weekends and public holidays, as required by the placement schedule
Final thoughts
This diploma offers a clear pathway into a stable nursing career in Gauteng’s public health system. Start by checking that you meet the academic thresholds, gather your documents, and submit the online application before 30 October 2026. Even if competition is strong, a well‑prepared application and honest presentation of your skills will give you the best possible chance.
