Prospective students warned against bogus colleges

Thandoluhle Ngcobo

Thandoluhle Ngcobo

14 January 2026 | 6:15

Students have been urged to verify that institutions are registered and accredited through official higher education and training channels before making any payments. 

Prospective students warned against bogus colleges

Prospective students interested in studying at the Motheo TVET College National Artisan Development Academy. Picture: Facebook/National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)

The Department of Higher Education and Training has warned prospective students to beware of bogus colleges operating illegally and offering unrecognised qualifications. 

This follows the issuing of the matric 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC). 

Students have been urged to verify that institutions are registered and accredited through official higher education and training channels before making any payments. 

READ: Post-matric challenge: Thousands of learners face higher education shortfall

Meanwhile, in a bid to bridge the financial access gap, Higher Education Buti Manamela has announced that more than 15,000 SETA bursaries have been made available to students who do not qualify for the national student financial aid. 

"These bursaries support students at Universities and TVET colleges, and cover tuition, learning materials and other study-related costs forming part of the government's broader strategy to widen access to post-school opportunities," said spokesperson to the minister, Matshepo Seedat.

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