Whether you’re a student chasing your dreams, a parent supporting your child, or a working professional hoping to upskill, selecting the right private college in South Africa can feel overwhelming. Sadly, many have fallen victim to unregistered institutions offering worthless qualifications.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to check if a private college is registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and whether its courses are accredited by quality assurance bodies. With these practical steps, you’ll protect your education, time, and money.
What Does “Registered and Accredited” Actually Mean?
Understanding the difference between registration and accreditation is crucial before enrolling.
Registration
This means the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) legally recognises the college under the Higher Education Act, 1997. Registration grants the institution permission to operate as a private higher or TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) college.
Example: A private college like Boston City Campus operates with DHET registration to offer higher education programmes.
Accreditation
Accreditation confirms that the courses or programmes offered meet minimum quality standards set by an official body such as:
- Council on Higher Education (CHE) – for degrees and higher certificates.
- Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) – for occupational qualifications.
- UMALUSI – for general and further education, like NATED programmes.
Important: A college can be registered but still offer non-accredited courses. Always check both.
Step-by-Step: How to Check if a Private College Is Legitimate
Step 1: Visit the DHET Website
Go to the official Department of Higher Education and Training website:
www.dhet.gov.za
- Under the “Registers” tab, download:
- Register of Private Higher Education Institutions
- Register of Private TVET Colleges
These PDF documents are updated quarterly and list valid registration numbers, expiry dates, and campuses.
Pro Tip: Search by college name or registration number (if known).
Step 2: Verify Course Accreditation
Once you’ve confirmed the college is registered, check if your chosen programme is accredited.
For Degrees and Diplomas:
Go to the Council on Higher Education (CHE) at
www.che.ac.za
Use their Database of Accredited Programmes.
For Occupational Qualifications:
Visit the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO)
www.qcto.org.za
Check under “Qualifications and Curricula.”
For NATED or NC(V) Certificates:
Refer to UMALUSI at
www.umalusi.org.za
Their site includes accreditation status of providers for general and vocational education.
What to Watch Out For: Red Flags of a Bogus College
Red Flag 1: No physical address or suspicious contact details
Always check if the campus exists and visit it if possible.
Red Flag 2: Promises of “international” accreditation only
In South Africa, local accreditation is essential-international claims don’t replace DHET approval.
Red Flag 3: Pressure to pay upfront fees without contract
You should always receive terms of enrolment in writing.
Red Flag 4: Fake accreditation seals
Verify logos and certificates by contacting DHET or the relevant council.
Real-Life Example: Thuli’s Mistake with a Fake College
Thuli, a matriculant from Mpumalanga, paid over R8,000 to register for a Diploma in Business Management at a college advertised on social media. She was told the qualification would be “internationally recognised.” After six months, the college shut down. When Thuli tried applying for jobs, no employer recognised her certificate. She later found the college was not listed on the DHET register.
Lesson: Always verify before you pay.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can a registered college lose its accreditation?
Yes. If a college fails to meet standards, its accreditation can be withdrawn. That’s why checking updated registers is important before each new academic year.
Q: What about online private colleges?
Online colleges must still be registered and their online courses accredited in the same way. Beware of fake online institutions.
Q: Is SETA accreditation the same as DHET registration?
No. SETA accreditation is for short skills programmes and does not replace DHET registration.
Read more: University Applications in South Africa for 2026: Dates, Fees, and Tips
Checklist Before Enrolling
- Confirm the college is listed on the DHET register
- Verify if the course is accredited by CHE, QCTO, or Umalusi
- Check the registration number and expiry date
- Visit the campus or website and assess legitimacy
- Read the enrolment contract and refund policies
- Look up online reviews and ask for alumni testimonials
In South Africa, thousands of hopeful students invest time, money, and dreams into higher education. Taking just a few extra steps to verify a private college’s registration and accreditation can save you from devastating scams.
Download the latest DHET register today at www.dhet.gov.za and verify your college before applying. Share this guide with friends and family so they can avoid bogus institutions too.
Also check: Universities Still Open for 2026 Applications: Don’t Miss Out!
