Key Takeaways: The “May” Intake
- The Golden Rule: The “Second Trimester” is strictly for Engineering Studies (NATED N1–N6). It does NOT apply to Business or Utility Studies (Tourism, HR, Finance).
- The Dates: Applications usually open in March/April, and classes start in May.
- The Duration: A trimester is 3 months. You complete one full level (e.g., N1) in just 10 weeks of study.
- The Colleges: Almost all public TVET colleges with an Engineering campus (e.g., Majuba, Orbit, Ekurhuleni West) have a Second Trimester intake.
- The Funding: NSFAS funds Trimester 2 students, but you must apply quickly as the window is short.
In the world of TVET colleges, timing is everything. Unlike schools that run from January to December, colleges run on cycles.
If you missed the January registration, you do not have to wait until next year. You only have to wait until May.
However, this opportunity is limited. If you want to study Human Resources or Tourism, the Second Trimester is not for you. You must wait for the Second Semester in July.
Here is the definitive guide to understanding the Second Trimester and which colleges open their doors.
1. Trimester vs. Semester: The Confusion
Before you apply, you must understand the academic calendar, or you will be rejected.
The Trimester System (Engineering)
- Applies to: Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, and Chemical Engineering (NATED N1–N6).
- Cycles per year: 3.
- Trimester 1: January – March.
- Trimester 2: May – July (This is the one you are looking for).
- Trimester 3: September – November.
- Why? Engineering theory is intense and condensed. You finish a level every 3 months.
The Semester System (Business & Utility)
- Applies to: Public Management, HR, Farming, Hospitality, Tourism.
- Cycles per year: 2.
- Semester 1: January – June.
- Semester 2: July – November.
- The Reality: If you want to study Business, colleges are CLOSED for new intakes in May. You must wait for July.
2. Which Colleges Open for Trimester 2?
Almost every public TVET college in South Africa that offers Engineering Studies will have a T2 intake. However, some are more reliable than others.
The “Always Open” List
These colleges have massive engineering faculties and consistently open for T2:
- Majuba TVET College (KZN): A giant in engineering training. They usually open applications in March.
- Orbit TVET College (North West): Known for their Rustenburg and Brits campuses which focus on mining-related trades.
- Ekurhuleni West College (EWC) (Gauteng): Serves the industrial East Rand. Very popular for Electrical Engineering.
- False Bay TVET College (Western Cape): Their Westlake Campus is a hub for motor mechanics and electrical trades.
- Tshwane North & South (Gauteng): The Pretoria colleges are hubs for Civil and Mechanical engineering.
- Capricorn TVET College (Limpopo): A major provider for students in the north.
The “Check First” List
Some smaller, rural colleges may skip T2 intakes if they don’t have enough lecturers or if the class is still full from T1. Always check their website in late March.
3. What Can You Study? (The Course Menu)
In Trimester 2, you can start from scratch (N1) or continue your studies (N4).
N1 – N3: The Artisan Route
- For: Students who want to become Electricians, Plumbers, Boilermakers, or Fitters.
- Entry Requirement: Grade 9 Pass (with Maths/Science) or Grade 12 (Math Lit is accepted for N1/N2).
- Goal: To get the theory needed for a Trade Test.
N4 – N6: The Technician Route
- For: Students who want a National Diploma and a “white-collar” engineering career.
- Entry Requirement: Grade 12 with Pure Maths (50%) and Physical Science.
- Warning: Most colleges will REJECT you for N4 if you have Maths Literacy. You must start at N1 or N2 (Bridging).
4. How to Apply (The 2026 Process)
The days of long queues are mostly over.
Step 1: Watch the Window
- Applications typically open in March and close in mid-April.
- Do not wait until May. By May, registration is already happening.
Step 2: The Online Portal
- Most colleges use the Coltech or i-Enabler system.
- You will need to upload:
- Certified ID.
- Latest Results (Matric or N-Level Certificate).
- Proof of Residence.
Step 3: The Placement Test
- Even if you have Matric, many colleges (like False Bay or EWC) require you to write a CAP Test (Career Assessment Placement). This checks your Numeracy and English levels to ensure you won’t fail N1.
5. Funding: Does NSFAS Pay for Trimester 2?
Yes.
NSFAS funds all three trimesters.
- Returning Students: If you were funded in Trimester 1 and passed, your funding automatically continues to Trimester 2. You do not need to reapply.
- New Students: If you are registering for the first time in May, you can apply for NSFAS.
- Tip: Colleges often have “Walk-in” NSFAS assistance during the May registration period because the main NSFAS online cycle closes in January. Ask the Financial Aid office at the campus immediately.
6. What If You Failed Trimester 1?
This is common. Engineering is hard.
- The Rule: You can register to repeat your failed subjects in Trimester 2.
- The Cost: NSFAS generally does not pay for repeated subjects. You may have to pay cash for the modules you failed.
- The Strategy: Do not take 4 subjects if you struggled with 3. Register for the 2 you failed and maybe 1 new one.
Summary: Don’t Waste the Year
The beauty of the Trimester system is speed. If you start N1 in May (Trimester 2), you can do N2 in September (Trimester 3). By the end of the year, you have two qualifications.
Action Plan:
- Set a Reminder: Put a recurring alarm on your phone for 20 March. This is usually when T2 applications begin to open.
- Check Your Maths: If you have Math Lit, do not apply for N4. Apply for N2 Electrical or N2 Mechanical. This is your bridging course.
- Prepare Documents: Scan your ID and results to your phone now. When the portal opens, you want to be the first to click “Submit.”
Disclaimer: Application dates vary by college. While most open in March/April, some high-demand campuses may close early. Always verify with the specific campus admin.