UNIVERSITIES and colleges across South Africa have reported receiving a record-breaking number of applications for the 2025 academic year for a limited number of available first-year places.

As it often happens each year, the fallout can be disastrous for vulnerable students who end up falling prey to bogus and unregistered institutions, also known as fly-by-night colleges. In their desperation and haste to enter higher education, they often overlook key signs of whether institutions are registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA), or if the courses that they offer are recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

Some institutions may be registered but do not qualify to offer certain courses,  meaning the students waste their time and finances on unrecognised and bogus qualifications. To safeguard against the dangers of unregistered institutions, matriculants and their families should take proactive steps to verify the legitimacy of educational providers.

Also Read: How matrics can avoid fly-by-night colleges when they register for next year

The following guidelines can help in identifying accredited and reputable institutions:

Check accreditation status

Before enrolling in any programme, students should verify the institution’s accreditation status through the DHET. A comprehensive list of registered institutions is available on the DHET website, providing details on the accreditation status of universities, colleges, and other educational providers.

Check qualifications ahead of registering

Many professions in South Africa are regulated by professional bodies that set standards for education and practice. Students pursuing careers in fields such as medicine, engineering, law, and accounting should consult the relevant professional bodies to ensure that their chosen institution and programme are recognised and accredited. This step is crucial for meeting licensure and certification requirements in these regulated professions.

Qualifications can be verified by SAQA at www.saqa.org.za

For more information and to get a list of unregistered institutions visit: www.dhet.gov.za

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