2026 Applications for Nursing Courses in South Africa Now Open. This is your chance. Nursing applications for 2026 are officially open across various institutions in South Africa. With the demand for qualified nurses steadily rising, now is the perfect time to pursue this noble profession and secure your place in one of the most respected careers.
Why Choose Nursing as a Career in South Africa?
Nursing is more than a job, it’s a calling. It offers personal fulfillment, professional growth, and a wide range of career opportunities in both the public and private healthcare sectors. With South Africa’s growing need for skilled healthcare providers, a nursing qualification opens doors not only locally but also internationally.
Some of the top benefits of becoming a nurse in South Africa include:
- High employment demand
- Job security and career advancement
- Opportunities to specialise (e.g. midwifery, mental health, community health)
- Making a real difference in people’s lives
Types of Nursing Qualifications in South Africa
There are three primary nursing qualifications you can pursue in South Africa:
1. Higher Certificate in Nursing (Auxiliary Nursing)
This is a one-year course designed to equip students with the basics of nursing care.
Entry Requirements:
- Senior Certificate (Matric)
- At least 40% in English
- 50% or more in Life Sciences or Biology
- APS Score: Minimum of 16 points
2. Diploma in Nursing
This three-year qualification is ideal for those who wish to become Enrolled Nurses.
Entry Requirements:
- Grade 12 with passing grades in:
- Mathematics
- English
- A Home Language
- Life Orientation
- Life Sciences
3. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BCur)
This four-year university degree prepares students for professional registration as Registered Nurses or Nursing Sisters.
Entry Requirements:
- National Senior Certificate with:
- English Home Language/First Additional Language
- Mathematics
- Life Sciences
- Life Orientation
These qualifications prepare students for various career paths within nursing, from clinical care to administrative and research roles.
Public Nursing Colleges and Their 2026 Application Dates
Currently Open for 2026 Applications
- Ukwazi School of Nursing
- Application Opened: 1 March 2025
- Applications Close: 30 June 2025
- Courses Offered: Higher Certificate in Nursing, Diploma in Nursing
- Western Cape College of Nursing
- Applications Opened: 5 May 2025
- Application Close: 30 September 2025
- Offers multiple programmes across its regional campuses.
- Free State School of Nursing
- Application Opened: 1 May 2025
- Applications Close: July 31, 2025
- Courses Offered: Diploma in Nursing, Advanced Diploma in Midwifery, Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing
Not Yet Open for 2026 Applications
- KZN College of Nursing
- Applications Open: 1 August 2025
- Application Close: 30 September 2025
- Programme Offered: National Diploma in Nursing
- Gauteng College of Nursing
- Application dates for 2026 are yet to be announced. Keep checking the official Gauteng Health Department site for updates.
Private Nursing Colleges and Hospital-Based Training Opportunities
In addition to public nursing colleges, South Africa also boasts several private nursing institutions and hospital-based training programmes that are accredited and provide excellent practical experience.
Top Private Nursing Colleges and Their Status
- Mediclinic
- Applications for 2026 are currently open
- Offers fully accredited nursing programmes and work-integrated learning.
- Life Healthcare
- Applications Open Between: June and August 2025
- Offers practical, hospital-based training and full qualifications.
- Netcare Faculty of Nursing and Ancillary Healthcare
- Applications for 2026 are not yet open, but the programme is highly sought-after.
- Amplats Medical Services & Healthnicon
- These institutions offer diverse nursing training, including auxiliary and enrolled nurse programmes. Contact them directly for opening dates and application details.
Hospital-Based Nursing Training
Many hospitals in South Africa offer their own nursing education and training programmes. It’s a good idea to contact your nearest hospital to check whether they offer accredited nursing courses for the 2026 intake.
Universities Now Accepting Nursing Applications for 2026
Many South African universities offer professional nursing degrees, including the Bachelor of Nursing and Bachelor of Nursing Science programmes.
Universities Currently Open for Nursing Applications
- University of Johannesburg
- University of Stellenbosch
- University of the Free State
- North-West University
- Wits University
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
- University of Cape Town
- University of Limpopo
- Nelson Mandela University
- University of Pretoria
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
- Durban University of Technology
- University of the Western Cape
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- University of Zululand
- Vaal University of Technology
- University of Venda
Universities Opening Soon
Other universities such as Unisa, Walter Sisulu University, and University of Fort Hare will be opening their nursing application windows soon. It’s advisable to frequently check their websites or social media pages for official announcements.
What Happens After You Complete Your Nursing Qualification?
After earning your qualification, South African nursing graduates are required to:
- Complete a year of community service at a public healthcare institution.
- Register with the South African Nursing Council (SANC).
- Pass the SANC examination for professional licensure.
Types of Nursing Roles in South Africa
- Registered Nurse (Nursing Sister): Supervise other nurses and handle advanced nursing duties.
- Enrolled Nurse: Provide basic to moderate patient care under supervision.
- Enrolled Nursing Auxiliary: Focus on fundamental patient care and support.
Each role plays a crucial part in the South African healthcare system and offers a stepping stone toward more advanced specialisations.
How to Apply for Nursing in 2026
To apply for nursing courses in 2026, follow these general steps. Each college or university may have slight variations in the process, so always consult the institution’s website.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Check Entry Requirements
- Confirm your APS score, subject results, and qualifications match the programme’s criteria.
- Choose Your Institution
- Decide whether to apply at a university, public nursing college, or private nursing college.
- Visit the Official Website
- Access the application portal or download the application form from the institution’s website.
- Prepare Required Documents
- Certified copy of your ID document
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate or Grade 11 report
- Proof of residence
- Application fee (if required)
- Complete the Application Form
- Accurately fill in all fields. Any false information can lead to disqualification.
- Submit Before the Deadline
- Early submission increases your chances of being considered, especially for competitive programmes.
- Track Your Application
- Most institutions offer a student portal to track the status of your application. Log in regularly.
- Prepare for Additional Assessments
- Some nursing schools may require you to write entrance exams, attend interviews, or undergo medical tests.
- Apply for Financial Aid
- Consider applying for NSFAS or other bursaries if you meet the financial criteria.
Conclusion
The 2026 applications for nursing courses in South Africa are now officially underway. Whether you’re aiming for a Higher Certificate in Nursing, a Diploma in Nursing, or a full Bachelor of Science in Nursing, there’s a path tailored to your ambition. With multiple institutions already accepting applications, and more opening soon, it’s crucial to prepare and apply early.
