Register as a private further education and training college in South Africa
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How to Register as a Private Further Education and Training College in South Africa
Do you dream of establishing your own private further education and training college in South Africa? This article will guide you through the process of registering your institution and embarking on a journey of empowering individuals with valuable skills and knowledge.

Why Register as a Private Further Education and Training College in South Africa?
Registering as a private further education and training (FET) college is essential if you wish to offer full National Qualifications Framework (NQF) qualifications on levels 2 to 4. This registration ensures that your institution meets the necessary standards and requirements set by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). However, it’s important to note that certain institutions, such as schools offering FET programs under the South African Schools Act or government-funded education providers, are not required to register with the DHET.
For institutions that offer short courses, non-NQF programs, or parts of qualifications, registration is not mandatory under the FET Colleges Act of 2006.
Steps to Register as a Private Further Education and Training College in South Africa
To begin your journey towards becoming a registered private FET college, follow these simple steps:
- Complete the Application Form: Start by downloading and completing the application form provided by the DHET. This form includes important details about your institution, the qualifications you plan to offer, and other relevant information.
- Submit Your Application: Once you have completed the application form, submit it to the DHET for review. This step marks the official start of the registration process.
- Pay the Application Fee: Along with your application, you will need to pay a non-refundable application fee of R500 to the DHET. This fee covers the administrative costs associated with processing your application.

Processing Time for Registration of a Private Further Education and Training College in South Africa
It’s natural to wonder how long the registration process will take. While each application is unique and processing times may vary, it is generally expected to take up to six months for the DHET to complete the registration of your private FET college. During this time, the DHET will carefully evaluate your application, ensuring that your institution meets the necessary criteria and complies with all relevant regulations.
Cost of Registering as a Private Further Education and Training College in South Africa
To help you plan your budget, it’s important to be aware of the costs involved in the registration process. The tariff schedule for the year 2023/24 provides detailed information on the fees associated with registering a private FET college. You can refer to the official government document here for the most up-to-date information on registration fees.

Required Forms for Registration of a Private Further Education and Training College in South Africa
To streamline the registration process, the DHET has provided an application form specifically designed for private FET colleges. You can find the official “Application for Registration as Private Further Education and Training College” here. Make sure to carefully complete this form and submit it along with your application.
Contacting the Department of Higher Education and Training
Throughout the registration process, you may have questions or require further assistance. The Department of Higher Education and Training is here to help. You can reach out to them using the following contact details: