Public Nursing Colleges in South Africa – 2027 Guide

Want to start a nursing career right now? Public nursing colleges in South Africa offer government‑supported training that can get you into the health sector quickly. Public nursing colleges give you a clear path to qualified nursing jobs.

What is a public nursing college?

A public nursing college is run by the government. It combines classroom learning with hands‑on practice in hospitals and clinics. The colleges can award a Higher Certificate in Nursing, a Diploma in Nursing, an Advanced Diploma in Midwifery, and, where accredited, a Bachelor of Nursing.

Not every campus offers every qualification. Always check the current accreditation and intake before you apply.

Who can apply?

You need a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification. Typical selection criteria include:

• Grade 12 (or equivalent) results
• English language proficiency
• Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy (depends on the programme)
• Life Sciences or Physical Sciences (if required)
• Minimum Admission Point Score (APS) set by the college
• Any additional health or clinical requirements

Requirements vary between colleges, so read the latest prospectus for each institution.

What you gain

Successful graduates can register as:

• Enrolled nursing auxiliaries (Higher Certificate)
• General nurses (Diploma)
• Midwives (Advanced Diploma)

You will develop clinical skills, patient‑care knowledge, and the qualifications needed for public‑sector jobs or private practice.

How to apply for the 2027 intake

1. Choose a province and a public nursing college that suits you.
2. Visit the college’s official website to see which qualifications are currently accredited.
3. Check the announced application dates on the relevant provincial Department of Health site.
4. Gather your documents: ID, Grade 12 results or certificate, and any other requested papers.
5. Submit your application through the online portal or the method listed in the announcement.
6. Follow up on your status, attend any required interviews or assessments, and respond promptly to any requests.

Tips to improve your chances

• Verify the college and programme on the South African Nursing Council’s accredited institutions list before paying any fees.
• Achieve an APS above the minimum; higher scores increase your likelihood of selection.
• Maintain good English proficiency; many interviews are conducted in English.
• If you are still in Grade 11, check whether provisional applications are accepted, but plan to have your Grade 12 results ready.
• Apply to more than one college only if the application process allows multiple submissions.

Public nursing colleges by province

Gauteng

The Gauteng College of Nursing runs several campuses:

• Ann Latsky Campus
• Bonalesedi Campus
• Chris Hani Baragwanath Campus
• SG Lourens Campus

Official website: https://gcon.gauteng.gov.za

Limpopo

Limpopo College of Nursing’s campuses include:

• Giyani Campus
• Sekhukhune Campus
• Sovenga Campus
• Thohoyandou Campus
• Waterberg Campus

Official website: https://www.dhs.limpopo.gov.za

KwaZulu‑Natal

KwaZulu‑Natal College of Nursing operates a wide network:

• Addington Campus
• Benedictine Campus
• Charles Johnson Memorial Campus
• Edendale Campus
• Grey’s Campus
• Madadeni Campus
• Ngwelezane Campus
• Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Campus
• Port Shepstone Campus
• R.K. Khan Campus

Official website: https://www.kznhealth.gov.za

Eastern Cape

Lilitha College of Nursing is the provincial provider. Main campuses are:

• East London Campus
• Mthatha Campus
• Lusikisiki Campus
• Gqeberha Campus
• Komani Campus

Sub‑campuses such as All Saints and Andries Vosloo are also used for specific programmes.

Official website: https://www.echealth.gov.za

Western Cape

Western Cape College of Nursing’s regional campuses include:

• Metro West Campus
• Boland Overberg Campus
• Southern Cape Karoo Campus

Official website: https://www.westerncape.gov.za

Free State

The Free State School of Nursing has three main campuses:

• Northern Campus
• Eastern Campus
• Southern Campus

Additional sites such as Boitumelo, Pelonomi and Dr J.S. Moroka may host specific programmes.

Official website: https://www.health.fs.gov.za

Mpumalanga

Mpumalanga College of Nursing’s training sites include:

• Rob Ferreira Nursing Campus
• Tintswalo Sub‑Campus
• Witbank Sub‑Campus
• Standerton Sub‑Campus

Official website: https://www.mpuhealth.gov.za

North West

North West College of Nursing operates two campuses:

• Mahikeng (Mafikeng) Campus
• Klerksdorp Campus

Official website: https://www.nwpg.gov.za

Northern Cape

Henrietta Stockdale Nursing College in Kimberley is the provincial college.

It offers a three‑year Diploma in Nursing and a one‑year Higher Certificate in Nursing (2024/2025 accreditation).

Official website: https://www.northern-cape.gov.za

South African Military Health Service

The Military Health Service Nursing College is a public, military‑run institution. Its recruitment process is separate from the provincial colleges.

Official website: https://www.dod.mil.za

Summary table of main public nursing colleges

Nursing qualifications offered

Funding and bursaries

Not every public nursing programme is covered by NSFAS. Some provinces offer bursaries or other financial aid. Always confirm eligibility directly with the college and the funding body.

Final thoughts

Public nursing colleges are a solid gateway into South Africa’s health sector. For the 2027 intake, pick a college, verify its SANC accreditation, meet the admission criteria, and follow the official application timeline.

Use the South African Nursing Council website and your provincial Department of Health site for the most reliable information.