All You Need to Know about NATED Courses


Friday, 21 July 2023

There are many different qualifications you can get once you finish high school. Depending on the major you want to follow, the possibilities will be endless. Discover the main characteristics of NATED courses and what you can expect from them. 



The qualification system in South Africa is quite different from all the others in the world. The system consists of ten levels divided into three categories: levels 1 to 4 equates to high school certificates, levels 5 to 7 are related to college diplomas and technical qualifications, and levels 8 to 10 refer to university degrees. National Accredited Technical Education Diploma (NATED) are part of the many different qualifications that can be obtained after school. 

What are NATED Courses?

Nated programmes are accredited by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations and the South African Qualifications Authority. These programmes last 18 months of theoretical studies and 18 months of practical application of this knowledge in workplaces. NATED courses consist of three N levels, beginning at level 4 up to level 6, followed by a practical section. These programmes were originated by the Department of Higher Education and Training. 

NATED courses are career-oriented courses that prepare students for higher careers. This qualification is perfect for those who are interested and talented in an occupational or vocational area and are willing to develop competencies in that field. This program is a good starting point for students who want to start working immediately after they graduate. 

NATED Courses Requirements 

What is needed to get into these courses? Not much. The minimum requirements to study NATED programmes are::

  • Be 16 years old or older.
  • Study through distance learning and have all the elements necessary to do so. 
  • Understand, read, and write in English. 
  • Have a Matric certificate, National Senior Certificate or Amended Senior Certificate.

What is the difference between NCV and NATED courses?

Both NCV and NATED courses are qualifications that you can study at one of the TVET colleges

On the one hand, the Department of Higher Education and Training created the NATED programmes to train students for the workplace. These are post-school courses that help students further their education and prepare them for work life. These courses are based both on practical and theoretical knowledge

On the other hand, NCV courses were created to provide workplace-based training and skills in different fields on demand in South Africa. “This means that without finishing matric, students get the chance to harness their skills and build a successful career” (Matric College). For those students who find traditional school environments difficult, NCV courses might be beneficial. They can study for an NCV course to get a certification equivalent to matric. Some universities accept these types of courses, although the requirements can be extensive. 

Whatever programme you choose, you should know that these courses give you all the resources you need to end up being prepared for life and work. 

If you want to know more about education in South Africa, you can read the following articles

What is a B Tech Degree in South Africa?

Where do you get an online Education degree in South Africa?

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