The Gauteng Department of Health has officially opened applications for the 2026 Diploma in Nursing programme at the Gauteng College of Nursing. Young people interested in pursuing a career in healthcare have until 26 September 2025 to apply.
The programme will be offered across the college’s four campuses: Ann Latsky, Chris Hani Baragwanath, SG Lourens, and Bonalesedi.
Who Can Apply
According to the department, applicants must be:
- South African citizens residing in Gauteng, and
- In possession of a Senior Certificate, National Senior Certificate (NSC), National Vocational Certificate in Primary Health, or currently completing Grade 12.
Applications are to be completed online only via the GPG Professional Job Centre. No hand-delivered or emailed applications will be accepted.
Subject Requirements
To qualify, candidates need to meet the following subject criteria:
- Senior Certificate: English HG D/SG C, Biology HG D/SG C, Mathematics HG D/SG C, with an M-score of 17.
- National Senior Certificate (NSC): English Level 4, Life Sciences Level 4, Mathematics Level 4/Maths Literacy Level 5, APS of 27+.
- National Vocational Certificate: 50% in fundamentals (English, Maths/Maths Lit, Life Orientation) and 60% in vocational subjects (SA Health Care System, Public Health, Human Body & Mind, Community Care).
- Grade 12 learners: Final Grade 11 results must meet NSC requirements.
Selection Process
Shortlisted candidates will undergo a psychometric assessment, followed by medical surveillance and document verification.
Successful candidates must be ready to:
- Sign an agreement with the Gauteng Department of Health
- Attend lectures and clinical training
- Participate in Work Integrated Learning (WIL), which includes night shifts, weekends, and public holidays at provincial hospitals and clinics
Skills and Attributes Needed
The department highlights that successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Compassion and care
- Problem-solving ability
- Good communication skills
- Calmness under pressure
- Organisational and leadership ability
- Honesty and strong study discipline
Application Deadline
The closing date for applications is 26 September 2025. Late applications will not be considered.
Those who do not receive feedback within three months after the closing date should assume their applications were unsuccessful.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must:
- Register a profile on the GPG Professional Job Centre.
- Upload certified copies of qualifications or results (Grade 11/12).
- Submit the online application before the deadline.
Not Ready Yet?
For those who don’t qualify this year, options include:
- Enrolling in NC(V) Primary Health programmes at TVET colleges
- Taking bridging courses to improve maths, science, and English results
- Exploring short courses in healthcare and community care
This intake marks a significant opportunity for aspiring nurses in Gauteng. With South Africa’s growing need for healthcare workers, the programme offers a pathway into a stable and in-demand profession.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Gauteng Nursing Intake 2026
Can I apply without Mathematics?
Yes, you can apply with Maths Literacy Level 5 instead of pure Mathematics, as long as you meet the APS requirements.
Do I get paid while studying nursing?
No, this is a study programme. You will not receive a salary while studying, but successful applicants will sign an agreement with the Gauteng Department of Health and may have work opportunities after completing the diploma.
Can I apply if I am not from Gauteng?
No, only applicants who are South African citizens residing in Gauteng are eligible.
I am still in Grade 12, can I apply?
Yes. Current Grade 12 learners can apply, but your final Grade 11 results will be used to determine if you qualify.
How long is the Diploma in Nursing?
The programme runs for three years, including both classroom study and Work Integrated Learning (WIL) in hospitals and clinics.
Can I email or hand deliver my application?
No. Applications are online only through the official nursingintake.gauteng.gov.za portal.
What happens after I apply?
Shortlisted applicants will: Write a psychometric test, Undergo a medical check and Have their documents verified before final selection
What are the closing dates for applications?
The final date to apply is 26 September 2025. Late applications will not be considered.
What happens if I don’t hear back?
If you do not receive feedback within 3 months after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
Can I reapply in future if I don’t qualify now?
Yes. You can improve your results, take bridging courses, or complete a health-related NC(V) at a TVET college, then apply again in the next intake.
Experienced career development professional with a background in student administration and guidance across several South African universities. Over the years, I have supported students in shaping their academic and professional journeys, providing career counselling, employability training, and placement support. I now focus on helping young graduates successfully transition from university or college into the workplace, bridging the gap between education and employment through practical guidance and career-readiness initiatives.
