20 Best Nursing Colleges in South Africa: Full List of SANC-Accredited Schools & How to Apply

Choosing where to study nursing is one of the most important decisions an aspiring nurse in South Africa will make, and it starts with accreditation. If you’re searching for the best accredited nursing colleges in South Africa, this comprehensive guide explores the Best Accredited Nursing Colleges in South Africa, including public nursing colleges, universities, and leading private institutions approved to offer nursing education. You’ll also learn about admission requirements, application procedures, tuition considerations, and how to verify whether a nursing school is officially accredited.

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Remember, choosing a nursing college isn’t just about the reputation; it’s about finding an institution that aligns with your career goals, learning style, and lifestyle.

SANC is an abbreviation for the South African Nursing Council, which regulates nursing and advocates for the public. One of the Nursing Council’s tasks is to accredit nursing education institutes (NEIs) and the training programs offered by those institutions. These functions are delegated to the Council by legislation.

What Is SANC Accreditation?

SANC accreditation is the official recognition granted by the South African Nursing Council (SANC) to a Nursing Education Institution (NEI) and its training programmes, confirming that both meet the standards required to produce competent, safe, and ethical nursing practitioners.

Under Section 42 of the Nursing Act, 2005, it is illegal for any institution in South Africa to offer education or training intended to qualify someone as a nurse or midwife unless both the institution and its specific programme are accredited by SANC. This is a critical distinction: an institution can be accredited overall while a specific programme it offers is not, so learners must confirm both before enrolling.

Because unaccredited training carries no legal standing, graduates from non-accredited programmes cannot register with SANC, meaning they cannot legally practice nursing in South Africa, regardless of how much they paid in tuition or how long they studied.

Why Study in South Africa, and the Function of SANC

South Africa remains one of the top destinations on the continent for nursing education, thanks to its strong clinical training infrastructure, internationally respected university nursing science departments, and a healthcare system that offers extensive hands-on exposure. Several South African universities also rank among the best in Africa for nursing, giving graduates a qualification that’s well-regarded both locally and internationally.

SANC’s core function is to protect two groups:

• The public, who deserve care from nurses and midwives trained to a high, ethically grounded standard.
• Learners, who deserve an education that actually satisfies the requirements for professional registration.

To fulfill this mandate, SANC accredits nursing education institutions, sets the training curriculum standards, regulates the different categories of nurse registration (registered nurse, enrolled nurse, and enrolled nursing auxiliary), and maintains the official register of both institutions and practitioners.

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Types of Nursing Colleges’ Accreditation Status in SANC

When researching accredited nursing colleges in South Africa, you’ll come across a few different accreditation categories, which reflect the Council’s ongoing transition to a new qualifications framework:

1. Universities accredited to offer new qualifications: institutions approved to deliver the Higher Certificate, Diploma, and Bachelor of Nursing programmes aligned with the new framework.
2. Public nursing colleges accredited to offer new qualifications: government-run colleges cleared to offer the updated programme structure.
3. Private Nursing Education Institutions (NEIs) accredited to offer new qualifications: privately owned schools approved under the same new framework.
4. Institutions still offering legacy qualifications: both public and private NEIs that continue to run older, pre-reform diploma programmes (such as the former four-year R425 diploma) while SANC phases these out.

This means two colleges can both be legitimately “SANC accredited” while offering different qualification structures, which is why it’s essential to confirm which specific programme (new or legacy) a college is accredited to teach before applying.

How to Verify a School’s Accreditation Status by SANC

Before paying any registration, fee or committing to a programme, take a few minutes to confirm a school’s standing directly with SANC rather than relying on the institution’s:

1. Visit the official SANC website at www.sanc.co.za and look for the “Education Institutions” or accreditation section, where the Council publishes its official lists of accredited universities, public colleges, and private NEIs.
2. Check both the institution and the specific programme. An NEI can be accredited overall while a particular course it advertises isn’t, so confirm the exact qualification (Higher Certificate, Diploma, Bachelor of Nursing, etc.) appears on SANC’s current list, not just the institution’s name.
3. Confirm whether it’s listed under “new” or “legacy” qualifications. This affects the qualification structure, credits, and NQF level you’ll graduate with, so make sure it matches what you actually intend to study.
4. Cross-check the SANC reference/S-file number, if the institution provides one — this unique registration number should match what’s published in SANC’s official documentation.
5. Contact SANC directly via registrar@sanc.co.za or the Council’s listed phone number if you can’t find an institution on the published lists, or if anything looks inconsistent.
6. Never rely solely on a college’s own website or a recruiter’s claims of accreditation. Verification should always trace back to SANC’s own published records, since accreditation status can change and outdated marketing materials sometimes remain online after a school’s status has changed.

Taking this extra step before enrolling protects your tuition, your time, and ultimately your ability to register with SANC and legally practice as a nurse or midwife once you graduate.

Nursing Education System in South Africa

South Africa’s nursing education system now runs on three main qualification levels under the new framework:

• Higher Certificate in Nursing (HCN): a 1-year programme that registers graduates with SANC as an enrolled nursing auxiliary. Offered at select public colleges and accredited private training centres.
• Diploma in Nursing (DipN) a 3-year programme that registers graduates with SANC as a general/enrolled nurse, allowing them to work in a defined scope of practice. Offered at public nursing colleges and several private NEIs.
• Bachelor of Nursing (BN): a 4-year, 480-credit degree at NQF Level 8, leading to dual registration as a Professional Nurse and Midwife. Offered exclusively at universities, with the final year typically focused on midwifery specialization.

After completing any of these qualifications, graduates must register with SANC within 30 days, complete a mandatory one-year community service placement (for professional nurses), and obtain an Annual Practising Certificate to legally continue working. From there, many professionals go on to pursue postgraduate specializations, including advanced diplomas or master’s degrees in nursing.

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20 Best Accredited Nursing Colleges in South Africa

Below is a detailed list of 20 accredited nursing colleges in South Africa, combining well-established private colleges, public institutions, and top-ranked universities. Fee estimates are approximate annual/programme costs in South African Rand (ZAR) gathered from public sources; always confirm exact, current figures directly with the institution, since fees change yearly and vary by programme level.

1. Mpilo Royal College Mpilo Royal College is a Johannesburg-based private institution that has built its reputation on producing practically skilled healthcare professionals, offering everything from short auxiliary courses to full nursing diplomas.

• Location: Marshalltown, Johannesburg
• Programmes: Diploma in Nursing (General, Community, and Psychiatric streams), Health Promotion Officer, and Occupational Home-Based Care short courses
• Estimated fees: Short courses range from roughly R13,500 to R37,000 depending on duration; diploma-level programmes cost more and are billed in instalments
• Why study here: Known for hands-on, practical training with free study tablets and materials provided to students, plus flexible intake dates throughout the year

2. Future Nurses Nursing School (FNNS) FNNS is a private nursing school in Gauteng that has positioned itself as a forward-thinking option, regularly updating its curriculum to match current healthcare industry demands.

• Location: Bedfordview, Germiston South
• Programmes: Higher Certificate in Nursing (20 students per intake), per SANC’s official 2026 private NEI list
• Estimated fees: Roughly R25,000-R45,000 per year, depending on programme
• Why study here: Flexible learning schedules make it a good fit for students balancing work or family commitments alongside their studies

3. Life College of Learning Life College of Learning is the training arm of the Life Healthcare Group, one of South Africa’s largest private hospital operators, giving students a direct pipeline into private healthcare employment.

• Location: Wapadrand, Pretoria
• Programmes: Higher Certificate in Nursing (30 students per intake), Diploma in Nursing (30), Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Critical Care Nursing (20), and Postgraduate Diploma in Peri-operative Nursing (20) at its Pretoria Learning Centre, per SANC’s official 2026 private NEI list
• Estimated fees: Roughly R30,000-R50,000 per year
• Why study here: Backed by the Life Healthcare Group, giving students access to modern private-hospital facilities and experienced clinical mentors

4. University of Pretoria – Department of Nursing Science The Department of Nursing Science at the University of Pretoria is one of the country’s most academically rigorous nursing faculties, taking students from undergraduate study all the way through to doctoral research.

• Location: Hatfield, Pretoria
• Programmes: Bachelor of Nursing, postgraduate diplomas, Master’s and PhD in Nursing Science
• Estimated fees: Roughly R45,000-R65,000 per year (public university rate)
• Why study here: A strong research culture and full academic pathway from undergraduate to doctoral level, ideal for students who eventually want to specialise or teach

5. NetCare Faculty of Nursing and Ancillary Healthcare (FNAH) FNAH is the education faculty of Netcare, South Africa’s largest private healthcare group, and blends academic instruction with practical exposure across Netcare’s extensive hospital network.

• Location: Auckland Park, Johannesburg
• Programmes: Higher Certificate and Diploma in Nursing, Ancillary Healthcare courses
• Estimated fees: Roughly R35,000-R55,000 per year
• Why study here: Direct exposure to South Africa’s largest private hospital network gives students an edge in gaining varied clinical experience

6. Ann Latsky Nursing College Founded in 1951, Ann Latsky Nursing College is one of Gauteng’s oldest public nursing colleges, with decades of experience training nurses for both hospital and community settings.

• Location: Hurst Hill, Johannesburg
• Programmes: Diploma in Nursing (150 students per intake), Advanced Diploma in Midwifery (50), and Postgraduate Diploma in Primary Care Nursing (60), per SANC’s official 2026 public colleges list
• Estimated fees: Public college rates, typically lower than private institutions, roughly R15,000-R25,000 per year
• Why study here: A long-standing reputation (established 1951) for producing nurses skilled in community and public health settings, not just hospital-based care

7. UKwazi School of Nursing UKwazi School of Nursing is a private institution in Roodepoort known for maintaining high training standards and investing in modern learning facilities for its students.

• Location: Horison Park, Roodepoort
• Programmes: Higher Certificate in Nursing (30 students per intake) and Diploma in Nursing (30), per SANC’s official 2026 private NEI list
• Estimated fees: Roughly R25,000-R45,000 per year
• Why study here: Modern training facilities and a supportive learning environment, with a strong track record of producing confident, work-ready nurses

8. AHC Nursing College AHC Nursing College, based in Carletonville, is a private college that prioritises close, individualised support for each student throughout their nursing training.

• Location: Carletonville, Gauteng
• Programmes: Higher Certificate in Nursing (30 students per intake) and Diploma in Nursing (30), per SANC’s official 2026 private NEI list
• Estimated fees: Roughly R25,000-R40,000 per year
• Why study here: Strong individual student support structures, which can benefit students who want closer mentorship during training

9. Lilitha College of Nursing Lilitha College of Nursing operates multiple campuses across the Eastern Cape and beyond, and has become especially known for training nurses to serve rural and underserved communities.

• Location: Multiple campuses across the Eastern Cape (including Port Elizabeth/Gqeberha) and other provinces
• Programmes: Diploma in Nursing and Bridging Courses, with strong emphasis on rural and community healthcare
• Estimated fees: Public college rates, generally more affordable — roughly R15,000-R25,000 per year
• Why study here: Unmatched exposure to rural healthcare delivery, which is valuable for nurses planning to work in underserved or remote communities

10. University of the Free State – School of Nursing The School of Nursing at the University of the Free State is a respected public university faculty in Bloemfontein, known for combining strong academics with a research-driven approach to nursing education.

• Location: Park West, Bloemfontein
• Programmes: Bachelor of Nursing, postgraduate diplomas, Master’s and PhD programmes
• Estimated fees: Roughly R40,000-R60,000 per year (public university rate)
• Why study here: A research-driven curriculum combined with strong clinical placement partnerships across the Free State province

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11. University of Cape Town (UCT) Founded in 1874, the University of Cape Town is one of Africa’s oldest and most internationally recognised universities, and its nursing programme reflects that same academic prestige.

• Location: Rondebosch, Cape Town
• Programmes: Bachelor of Nursing and postgraduate nursing degrees
• Estimated fees: Roughly R45,000-R70,000 per year
• Why study here: Ranked #1 in Africa for nursing and one of the oldest, most internationally recognised universities on the continent, offering strong global mobility for graduates

12. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) Wits University, based in the heart of Johannesburg, is renowned for its academic hospitals and research output, giving nursing students access to some of the country’s busiest clinical training environments.

• Location: Braamfontein, Johannesburg
• Programmes: Bachelor of Nursing, postgraduate and specialist nursing qualifications
• Estimated fees: Roughly R45,000-R70,000 per year
• Why study here: Ranked #2 in Africa for nursing, with access to some of the busiest academic hospitals in the country for clinical training

13. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) UKZN in Durban offers a well-regarded nursing programme with a comparatively higher acceptance rate, making it a strong option for students who want a top-ranked university education that’s also more accessible.

• Location: Durban
• Programmes: Bachelor of Nursing, postgraduate diplomas, Master’s and PhD in Nursing
• Estimated fees: Roughly R40,000-R60,000 per year
• Why study here: Ranked #3 in Africa for nursing, with a relatively higher acceptance rate than some other top-ranked universities, making it more accessible

14. Stellenbosch University Stellenbosch University, founded in 1918, combines a historic academic setting with a well-resourced Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences that supports its four-year nursing degree.

• Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape
• Programmes: Bachelor of Nursing (four-year degree)
• Estimated fees: Roughly R45,000-R65,000 per year
• Why study here: Ranked #4 in Africa for nursing, with a well-resourced campus and strong academic support systems

15. University of the Western Cape (UWC) UWC has built a reputation as an accessible, high-quality public university, with a nursing science department that draws students from across the Western Cape and beyond.

• Location: Bellville, Cape Town
• Programmes: Bachelor of Nursing and postgraduate nursing science programmes
• Estimated fees: Roughly R35,000-R55,000 per year
• Why study here: A relatively higher acceptance rate and strong nursing science department, making it an accessible option for Western Cape-based students

16. North-West University (NWU) North-West University in Potchefstroom offers a well-regarded nursing science programme and is known for having one of the more accessible admission processes among South Africa’s public universities.

• Location: Potchefstroom
• Programmes: Bachelor of Nursing and postgraduate nursing qualifications
• Estimated fees: Roughly R35,000-R55,000 per year
• Why study here: A high acceptance rate and well-regarded nursing science programme, ideal for students in North West and neighbouring provinces

17. University of South Africa (UNISA) UNISA is South Africa’s largest higher education institution and delivers its nursing qualifications through open distance learning, reaching students nationwide who can’t attend a traditional campus.

• Location: Pretoria (distance learning, national reach)
• Programmes: Higher Certificate, Diploma, and postgraduate nursing qualifications via open distance learning
• Estimated fees: Roughly R15,000-R30,000 per year (generally lower due to the distance-learning model)
• Why study here: The most flexible option for students who need to work or care for family while studying, with one of the largest student bodies in the country

18. University of Johannesburg (UJ) UJ is a large, modern public university with a nursing programme supported by extensive clinical placement agreements across Johannesburg’s public and private hospitals.

• Location: Johannesburg
• Programmes: Bachelor of Nursing and postgraduate nursing programmes
• Estimated fees: Roughly R40,000-R60,000 per year
• Why study here: Strong clinical placement partnerships across Johannesburg’s public and private hospital networks

19. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) CPUT brings a technology-driven, career-focused approach to nursing education, with close ties to hospitals across the Western Cape for practical training.

• Location: Cape Town
• Programmes: Diploma and Bachelor of Nursing
• Estimated fees: Roughly R30,000-R50,000 per year
• Why study here: A technology-focused approach to healthcare training, combined with strong ties to Western Cape hospitals for clinical exposure

20. Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College operates alongside Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital — one of the largest hospitals in the world — giving students an exceptional range of clinical exposure as a public college under the Gauteng Department of Health.

• Location: Soweto, Johannesburg
• Programmes: Diploma in Nursing (100 students per intake) and Advanced Diploma in Midwifery (50 students per intake), both officially SANC-accredited under the new qualifications framework, with one intake per year
• Estimated fees: Public college rates, typically the most affordable — roughly R10,000-R20,000 per year
• Why study here: Direct attachment to one of Africa’s largest academic hospitals gives students unmatched exposure to high-volume, high-acuity clinical training

Before applying to any of these accredited nursing colleges in South Africa, always cross-check the specific programme’s accreditation status and current fee structure directly on the official SANC website and each institution’s admissions office, since accreditation and pricing are periodically reviewed and updated.

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SANC-Accredited Schools by Province

The data below draws directly from SANC’s official 2026 lists of private and public institutions accredited to offer the new nursing qualifications. Where an institution’s exact intake figures weren’t published in these official lists (mainly universities, which SANC lists separately under legacy programme codes), that’s noted so you know to confirm directly with the institution.

Gauteng

• Future Nurses Nursing School (FNNS) — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate in Nursing | Students per intake: 20 (one intake per year)
• Life Healthcare Group – East Rand Learning Centre — Accredited Programme(s): Diploma in Nursing (30), Higher Certificate in Nursing (50) | Students per intake: 30-50 per programme, one intake per year
• Life Healthcare Group – Pretoria Learning Centre — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate in Nursing (30), Diploma in Nursing (30), Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Critical Care Nursing (20), Postgraduate Diploma in Peri-operative Nursing (20) | Students per intake: 20-30 per programme, one intake per year
• Life Healthcare Group – West Rand Learning Centre — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate in Nursing (30), Diploma in Nursing (30), Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Critical Care (20) | Students per intake: 20-30 per programme, one intake per year
• Ann Latsky Nursing College — Accredited Programme(s): Diploma in Nursing (150), Advanced Diploma in Midwifery (50), Postgraduate Diploma in Primary Care Nursing (60) | Students per intake: up to 150 on the Diploma, one intake per year
• UKwazi School of Nursing – Roodepoort Campus — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate in Nursing (30), Diploma in Nursing (30) | Students per intake: 30 per programme, one intake per year
• AHC Nursing College — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate in Nursing (30), Diploma in Nursing (30) | Students per intake: 30 per programme, one intake per year
• Netcare Education – Gauteng Northeast Campus — Accredited Programme(s): Diploma in Nursing (50), Higher Certificate in Nursing (30), Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Critical Care Nursing (31) | Students per intake: 30-50 per programme, one intake per year
• Netcare Education – Gauteng Southwest Campus — Accredited Programme(s): Diploma in Nursing (80), Higher Certificate in Nursing (100), Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Critical Care Nursing (60) | Students per intake: up to 100 on the Higher Certificate, one intake per year
• Arwyp Training Institute — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate in Nursing (40), Diploma in Nursing (30) | Students per intake: 30-40 per programme, one intake per year
• Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College (public) — Accredited Programme(s): Diploma in Nursing (100), Advanced Diploma in Midwifery (50) | Students per intake: 100 on the Diploma, one intake per year
• SG Lourens Campus (public) — Accredited Programme(s): Diploma in Nursing (150), Advanced Diploma in Midwifery (50), Postgraduate Diploma in Primary Care Nursing (40) | Students per intake: up to 150 on the Diploma, one intake per year
• Bonalesedi Campus (public) — Accredited Programme(s): Diploma in Nursing (100) | Students per intake: 100, one intake per year
• University of Pretoria, University of the Witwatersrand, University of Johannesburg — Accredited Programme(s): Bachelor of Nursing plus various postgraduate specialisations (per SANC’s legacy/university listings) | Students per intake: not published in SANC’s institutional lists, confirm directly with each university’s faculty of health sciences

Western Cape

• Netcare Education – Western Cape Campus — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate in Nursing (40), Diploma in Nursing (50) | Students per intake: 40-50 per programme, one intake per year
• Mediclinic – Cape Region Learning Centre — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate in Nursing (35), Diploma in Nursing (35), Postgraduate Diploma in Peri-operative Nursing (15), Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Critical Care Nursing (25) | Students per intake: 15-35 per programme, one intake per year
• Life Healthcare Group – Cape Town Learning Centre — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate in Nursing (30), Diploma in Nursing (30) | Students per intake: 30 per programme, one intake per year
• Western Cape College of Nursing (public) – Boland Overberg, Metro West, and Southern Cape Karoo Campuses — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate in Nursing, Diploma in Nursing, and (at Metro West) Bachelor of Nursing, Advanced Diploma in Midwifery, plus several postgraduate specialisations | Students per intake: typically 50 per programme, one intake per year
• University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University, University of the Western Cape, Cape Peninsula University of Technology — Accredited Programme(s): Bachelor of Nursing plus postgraduate specialisations | Students per intake: not published in SANC’s institutional lists — confirm directly with each university

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KwaZulu-Natal

• Netcare Education – KwaZulu-Natal — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate in Nursing (40), Diploma in Nursing (20), Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Critical Care Nursing (30) | Students per intake: 20-40 per programme, one intake per year
• Life Healthcare Group – KwaZulu-Natal Learning Centre — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate in Nursing (37), Diploma in Nursing (21) | Students per intake: 21-37 per programme, one intake per year
• KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing (public) – Harry Gwala (Edendale) Campus — Accredited Programme(s): Diploma in Nursing (40), Advanced Diploma in Midwifery (30), plus postgraduate diplomas in Primary Care, Ophthalmic, Emergency, and Midwifery Nursing (30 each) | Students per intake: 30-40 per programme, one intake per year
• KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing – Grey’s Campus — Accredited Programme(s): Diploma in Nursing (40), Advanced Diploma in Midwifery (40), Postgraduate Diploma in Nephrology Nursing (30), Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Critical Care Nursing (30) | Students per intake: 30-40 per programme, one intake per year
• University of KwaZulu-Natal — Accredited Programme(s): Bachelor of Nursing plus postgraduate specialisations | Students per intake: not published in SANC’s institutional lists, confirm directly with the university

Free State

• Mediclinic – Central Region Learning Centre — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate in Nursing (20), Diploma in Nursing (40), Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Critical Care Nursing (15), Postgraduate Diploma in Perioperative Nursing (7) | Students per intake: 7-40 per programme, one intake per year
• Free State School of Nursing (public) – Southern Campus — Accredited Programme(s): Diploma in Nursing (60), Advanced Diploma in Midwifery (30), Postgraduate Diploma in Perioperative Nursing (20) | Students per intake: up to 60 on the Diploma, one intake per year
• Free State School of Nursing – Northern Campus — Accredited Programme(s): Diploma in Nursing (65), Advanced Diploma in Midwifery (30) | Students per intake: up to 65 on the Diploma, one intake per year
• University of the Free State — Accredited Programme(s): Bachelor of Nursing plus postgraduate specialisations | Students per intake: not published in SANC’s institutional lists — confirm directly with the university

North West

• Ukwazi School of Nursing – Potchefstroom Campus — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate in Nursing (40), Diploma in Nursing (36) | Students per intake: 36-40 per programme, one intake per year
• North West Nursing College (public) – Klerksdorp Campus — Accredited Programme(s): Diploma in Nursing (50), Higher Certificate in Nursing (50), Advanced Diploma in Midwifery (30), Postgraduate Diploma in Primary Care Nursing (40) | Students per intake: up to 50 per programme, one intake per year
• North West Nursing College – Mafikeng Campus — Accredited Programme(s): Diploma in Nursing (40), Higher Certificate in Nursing (50), Advanced Diploma in Midwifery (30) | Students per intake: 30-50 per programme, one intake per year
• North-West University — Accredited Programme(s): Bachelor of Nursing plus postgraduate specialisations | Students per intake: not published in SANC’s institutional lists — confirm directly with the university

Eastern Cape

• Netcare Education – Eastern Cape Campus (PE) — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate in Nursing (30), Diploma in Nursing (40) | Students per intake: 30-40 per programme, one intake per year
• Life Healthcare Group – Port Elizabeth Learning Centre — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate in Nursing (50), Diploma in Nursing (30), Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Critical Care Nursing (20), Postgraduate Diploma in Perioperative Nursing (20) | Students per intake: 20-50 per programme, one intake per year
• Lilitha College of Nursing (public) – East London Main Campus — Accredited Programme(s): Diploma in Nursing (60), Advanced Diploma in Midwifery (28), Postgraduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing (40) | Students per intake: up to 60 on the Diploma, one intake per year
• Lilitha College of Nursing – Port Elizabeth Main Campus — Accredited Programme(s): Diploma in Nursing (56) | Students per intake: 56, one intake per year
• Lilitha College of Nursing – Mthatha Main Campus — Accredited Programme(s): Diploma in Nursing (60), Advanced Diploma in Midwifery (27), Postgraduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing (40) | Students per intake: up to 60 on the Diploma, one intake per year

National (Distance Learning)

• University of South Africa (UNISA) — Accredited Programme(s): Higher Certificate, Diploma, and postgraduate nursing qualifications via open distance learning | Students per intake: not published as a per-programme figure by SANC, but UNISA’s total enrolment across all faculties exceeds 400,000 students nationally

For the complete, most current listing by province, including institutions and campuses not covered here, always refer to SANC’s official published PDFs for private institutions, public colleges, and universities, since these lists (and intake numbers) are reviewed and updated periodically.

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General Admission Requirements for Nursing Programmes in South Africa

While each of the accredited nursing colleges in South Africa sets its own specific entry criteria, most programmes share a common set of baseline requirements:

• National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification, endorsed by Umalusi, with a diploma or degree pass depending on the programme level.
• English: typically a minimum of Level 4 (50%), as English is the primary language of instruction at most institutions.
• Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: commonly at least Level 3-4 (40-50%) for Mathematics, or a higher threshold (around Level 5-6, roughly 60-70%) if only Mathematical Literacy was taken.
• Life Sciences (Biology): usually a minimum of Level 4 (50%), though some Higher Certificate and Diploma programmes accept a slightly lower mark.
• Physical Sciences: sometimes accepted as an alternative to Life Sciences at certain institutions.
• Admission Point Score (APS): many university nursing degrees require an APS of roughly 25-30, though this varies by institution and by year.
• Age and language proficiency: most institutions expect applicants to be at least 18 years old, with strong proficiency in English.
• Additional documentation: certified copies of your ID, matric certificate or statement of results, and in some cases a motivational letter, proof of residence (for province-specific public colleges), or an interview/selection test.

Because entry requirements and APS thresholds are reviewed and adjusted periodically, always confirm the exact subject marks and application deadlines directly on the official website of the specific accredited nursing college in South Africa you’re applying to before submitting your application.

Average Nurse Salary in South Africa

One of the biggest questions prospective students ask before enrolling at any accredited nursing colleges in South Africa is what they can expect to earn once they qualify. Nurse salaries vary considerably depending on registration category, sector (public vs. private), specialization, province, and years of experience, but here’s a general breakdown:

• Enrolled Nursing Auxiliary (entry-level, 1-year Higher Certificate): roughly R9,000-R19,000 per month, or approximately R150,000-R200,000 per year in public hospitals.
• Enrolled Nurse (3-year Diploma pathway): roughly R12,000-R26,000 per month, depending on sector and experience.
• Professional/Registered Nurse (4-year Bachelor of Nursing): typically starts around R23,000-R32,000 per month for newly qualified graduates, rising to R33,000-R45,000 per month with 10+ years of experience.
• Specialist nurses (ICU, theatre, neonatal, midwifery, psychiatric): often earn R40,000-R60,000+ per month, especially in private hospitals or high-demand specialities.
• Nursing Managers and Senior/Chief Professional Nurses: can earn R50,000-R78,000+ per month depending on the facility and sector.

On average, most sources place a general Nurse’s overall average salary in South Africa somewhere between R28,000 and R34,000 per month (roughly R340,000-R410,000 per year), though this blended figure includes all experience levels and categories. Private hospital groups such as Netcare, Mediclinic, and Life Healthcare tend to pay 10-25% above public sector base salaries, while public sector nurses typically receive additional benefits like a pension (GEPF), subsidized medical aid (GEMS), and rural or scarce-skills allowances that can add several thousand rand per month.

Because pay scales are reviewed annually, particularly in the public sector through the PSCBC collective bargaining process, always check the latest salary notches directly with the Department of Health or a prospective employer rather than relying solely on older published figures.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the best accredited nursing colleges in South Africa? Some of the most recognized include the University of Cape Town, the University of the Witwatersrand, the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Stellenbosch University, and established colleges like Lilitha College of Nursing and Ann Latsky Nursing College, all accredited by SANC.

How do I check if a nursing college is SANC accredited? Visit the official SANC website (www.sanc.co.za), check the published lists of accredited universities, public colleges, and private NEIs, or contact SANC directly. Never rely solely on a college’s own claims of accreditation.

What is the difference between the new and legacy nursing qualifications? The new framework introduces the Higher Certificate, Diploma, and Bachelor of Nursing structure aligned with the Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF). Legacy qualifications refer to older programmes, such as the four-year R425 diploma, which SANC is gradually phasing out.

How long does it take to become a registered nurse in South Africa? It depends on the pathway: 1 year for a Higher Certificate (enrolled nursing auxiliary), 3 years for a Diploma (general/enrolled nurse), or 4 years for a Bachelor of Nursing (professional nurse and midwife).

Can I study nursing through distance learning in South Africa? Yes. UNISA offers SANC-accredited nursing programmes through open distance learning, making it a popular option for students who cannot attend a traditional campus.

What happens if I study at an unaccredited nursing institution? You will not be eligible to register with SANC, meaning you cannot legally practice as a nurse or midwife in South Africa, regardless of how much coursework you completed.

What is the average nurse salary in South Africa? Overall averages range from roughly R28,000-R34,000 per month across all categories, though this varies widely, from around R9,000-R19,000/month for entry-level enrolled nursing auxiliaries to R40,000-R60,000+/month for specialist and senior professional nurses.

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Conclusion

Picking from the right accredited nursing colleges in South Africa is the single most important step in building a legitimate, rewarding nursing career. Whether you choose a university offering the four-year Bachelor of Nursing or a public college offering a three-year diploma, always confirm SANC accreditation for both the institution and the specific programme before you enroll. Doing your due diligence now protects your time, your finances, and your future as a registered nursing professional in South Africa.

Sources

• South African Nursing Council (SANC) – Education Institutions: https://www.sanc.co.za/education-institutions/
• SANC – Private Nursing Education Institutions accredited to offer new qualifications (Feb 2026): https://www.sanc.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Private-Nursing-Education-Institutions-Accredited-To-Offer-New-Nursing-Programmes-for-February-2026-24022026.pdf
• SANC – Public Colleges accredited to offer new qualifications (Feb 2026): https://www.sanc.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Public-Colleges-accredited-to-offer-NEW-Nursing-Programmes-for-Feb-2026.pdf
• SANC – Universities accredited to offer new qualifications (Feb 2026): https://www.sanc.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Universities-accredited-to-offer-NEW-Nursing-Programmes-for-Feb-2026.pdf

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