Looking for accredited nursing colleges in South Africa for 2026? Here is a comprehensive list of nursing colleges registered with the South African Nursing Council (SANC), offering Higher Certificate and Diploma Nursing programmes. This guide will help you find colleges by province, see contact details, understand intake numbers, and choose the best option for your training.
Contents
What Makes a Nursing College “Registered”
A registered nursing college must meet criteria set by the South African Nursing Council (SANC). Key requirements include:
- Accreditation for both Higher Certificate & Diploma Nursing qualifications.
- Adherence to curriculum standards and clinical training guidelines.
- Proper infrastructure, qualified nursing staff and facilities for practical work.
Using a registered institution ensures your qualification is recognised nationally and that you are eligible for nurse registration.
Nursing Colleges by Province
Here are registered nursing colleges in each province, the programmes they offer (Higher Certificate and/or Diploma Nursing), plus approximate student intake. Use this to compare options near you.
Gauteng
- Arwyp Training Institute (PTY) Ltd – Higher Certificate & Diploma Nursing
- Ukwazi School of Nursing – Roodepoort Campus – Higher Certificate & Diploma Nursing
- Mediclinic Learning Centres (Tshwane & Northern Regions) – both programmes available
- Netcare Education – Gauteng North East & South West Campuses
- Life Healthcare Group – East Rand, West Rand, Pretoria Learning Centres
- Khanyisa Nursing School
- ESDA Nursing College
- Future Nurses Nursing School (PTY) Ltd
- Bronberg Nurse Education and Training Academy
- Lenmed Nursing College
- Emmanuel Verpleegskool – Pretoria Campus
Western Cape
- Emmanuel Verpleegskool Oudtshoorn (PTY) Ltd
- Netcare Education – Western Cape Campus
- Life Healthcare Group – Cape Town Learning Centre
North West
- Ukwazi School of Nursing – Potchefstroom Campus
- Striving Mind Nursing Academy
Eastern Cape
- Netcare Education – Eastern Cape Campus
- Life Healthcare Group – East London & Port Elizabeth Learning Centres
- Chatsmed Candlelight – Mthatha Sub-Campus
Mpumalanga
- Khanyisa Nursing School – Bushbuckridge, Tonga, Witbank Sub-Campuses
- Mediclinic Learning Centre – Nelspruit
Free State
- Mediclinic Central Region Learning Centre
- Khanyisa Nursing – Kroonstad Sub-Campus
Limpopo
- Mediclinic Learning Centre – Limpopo
KwaZulu-Natal
- Netcare Education (Pty) Ltd
How to Choose the Right Nursing College
Compare colleges using these factors:
- Programme offered: Diploma vs Higher Certificate — diplomas usually take longer, include more clinical hours.
- Student intake / class size: Smaller intakes may offer more personalised attention.
- Proximity: Closer colleges reduce living/transport costs.
- Clinical training facilities: Good in-house or partnered hospitals for practical placements.
- Support & accreditation: Always confirm current registration with SANC and whether the college has good support services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a Higher Certificate and a Diploma in Nursing?
Higher Certificate is a shorter programme, less depth and fewer clinical hours. Diploma Nursing is more comprehensive, longer in duration, includes more clinical training, and is the standard for many nurse-registration roles.
Are all listed colleges really accredited for 2026?
Yes, this list reflects colleges certified by SANC as of early 2026. But you should verify directly with each college or SANC’s official registry to be sure.
Can I apply to any college across provinces?
Yes. But consider costs for relocation or transport. Also, some colleges might prioritize applicants from their own province and have limited seats.
What happens after I complete nursing qualification at a registered college?
Upon finishing, you may apply for registration with the South African Nursing Council. Registration allows you to practice as a professional nurse or midwife, depending on your qualification.
👉 Always check the SANC official website for latest updates on accreditation and college registrations.
