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.