Key Takeaways: False Bay Essentials
- Location: Cape Town (Southern Suburbs & Cape Flats).
- Campuses: 5 (Westlake, Muizenberg, Fish Hoek, Mitchells Plain, Khayelitsha).
- Reputation: Consistently rated as one of the top 3 TVET colleges in South Africa for pass rates.
- Specialty: Yacht Building, 2D Animation, and Engineering.
- Application Mode: Online Only (Camu/Coltech system).
- Distance Learning: Offers a robust distance program for working adults.
In the competitive landscape of Cape Town education, False Bay TVET College (FBC) stands out as a heavyweight. While Northlink dominates the northern suburbs, False Bay controls the coast. From the tourist hub of Muizenberg to the industrial workshops of Westlake, FBC is famous for its high academic standards and strict admission policies.
It is also one of the few colleges that offers niche courses you won’t find anywhere else, like Yacht & Boat Building and 2D Animation.
However, studying here requires planning. The fees are slightly higher than rural colleges, and the campuses are specialized. You cannot study “Engineering” at Fish Hoek, and you cannot study “Tourism” at Westlake.
This guide clarifies the 2026 fee structure, breaks down the unique campus offerings, and walks you through the application process that usually closes months before other colleges.
1. The 5 Campuses: Choose Your Base
False Bay is decentralized. Each campus has a distinct culture and course list.
1. Westlake Campus (The Engineering HQ)
- Location: Westlake Drive, Tokai.
- Focus: Engineering and Safety in Society.
- Vibe: Serious and industrial. This campus houses massive workshops for fitting, turning, and electrical work.
- Specialty: It is the only campus offering the Yacht & Boat Building course (linked to the Cape Town harbour industry).
2. Muizenberg Campus (The Hospitality Hub)
- Location: York Road, Muizenberg (Near the beach).
- Focus: Hospitality, Tourism, and Safety in Society.
- Specialty: Features professional training kitchens and a mock restaurant. If you want to be a Chef, this is your home.
3. Fish Hoek Campus
- Location: Kommetjie Road, Fish Hoek.
- Focus: Business Studies and IT.
- Specialty: Known for 2D Animation and Information Technology. It has a more relaxed, suburban atmosphere.
4. Mitchells Plain Campus
- Location: Merrydale Avenue, Mitchells Plain.
- Focus: Business Studies and Education.
- Importance: A critical community hub offering Human Resource Management and Early Childhood Development (ECD).
5. Khayelitsha Campus
- Location: Mew Way, Khayelitsha.
- Focus: Business, Engineering (NCV), and Education.
- Specialty: One of the largest campuses, offering a wide range of NCV Level 2-4 programs to bridge students from Grade 9 into the workforce.
2. 2026 Fee Structure (Estimates)
False Bay is a public college, so 80% of students are funded by NSFAS. However, for those paying cash (or “Gap Year” students), here is what you can expect to pay.
Important: Fees are usually payable in installments (20% deposit + monthly).
Engineering Studies (NATED N1 – N6)
- Cost: Approx. R2,160 – R2,500 per trimester (10 weeks).
- Total for N1-N6: Approx. R15,000 for the full theoretical qualification.
- Note: Textbooks and protective gear (PPE safety boots/overalls) are often excluded and cost an extra R1,500.
Business Studies (NATED N4 – N6)
- Cost: Approx. R3,200 per semester (6 months).
- Per Subject: Approx. R800 – R1,055 if taking single modules.
- Total for Diploma: Approx. R19,000 (18 months of theory).
National Certificate Vocational (NCV)
- Cost: Approx. R10,000 – R16,000 per year (depending on the program).
- Office Admin: ~R10,500.
- IT / Robotics: ~R16,000.
- Engineering (Motor Mech): ~R21,000 (due to expensive consumables like metal/welding rods).
Distance Learning Fees
- Cost: Approx. R875 – R1,064 per subject.
- Note: This includes study material and assessment marking, but excludes exam venue fees if you write away from the college.
3. Admission Requirements 2026
A. National Certificate Vocational (NCV) – Level 2
- Target: Grade 9, 10, or 11 learners.
- Requirement: Pass Grade 9 Mathematics and English.
- Selection: High preference is given to students who have passed Grade 10 or 11.
B. Report 191 (NATED) – N4
- Target: Matriculants.
- Requirement: NSC (Matric) with Diploma/Bachelor Pass.
- Engineering N4: Strictly requires Maths (Not Math Lit) and Science in Matric. If you have Math Lit, you must start at the N2 or N3 level (Bridging).
4. Course List: Specialized Programs
False Bay offers the standard NATED courses, but their “Occupational” and “Niche” courses are what make them famous.
Unique Courses:
- Yacht and Boat Building (Westlake): A specialized trade preparing you for the luxury boat building industry in Cape Town.
- 2D Animation (Fish Hoek): A creative course for the digital arts sector.
- Programming & Robotics (NCV): A modern IT course focusing on coding and automation.
Standard Engineering (N1-N6):
- Electrical (Heavy/Light).
- Mechanical (Fitting/Turning/Automotive).
- Civil (Plumbing/Carpentry/Bricklaying).
- Note: Civil Engineering is very strong at the Westlake and Khayelitsha campuses.
Standard Business (N4-N6):
- Financial Management.
- Human Resource Management.
- Public Management.
- Management Assistant.
- Business Management.
5. How to Apply Online (Step-by-Step)
False Bay uses a rigorous online system.
Step 1: The “Career Interest Questionnaire”
- You cannot apply without it.
- Visit www.falsebaycollege.co.za.
- Complete the questionnaire. It ensures you aren’t applying for a course you hate.
Step 2: Create Profile on the Portal
- Click “Apply Now” (2026 intake).
- Register your ID and create a password.
- Tip: False Bay’s system often sends a verification email. Check your Spam folder.
Step 3: Upload Documents
- Certified ID.
- Latest Results: If you are currently in Matric, upload your Grade 11 Final or Grade 12 June/September report.
- Proof of Address: Essential for catchment area planning.
Step 4: Selection Interview
- Unlike many colleges, False Bay often calls shortlisted candidates for an interview or an additional numeracy test (especially for Engineering).
- Keep your phone on. If you miss the call, they move to the next person.
6. Distance Learning (Study While You Work)
False Bay has one of the best Distance Learning units in the TVET sector.
How it works:
- You do not attend classes.
- You receive study guides and access to an online portal (MyFBC).
- You submit assignments online.
- You only come to campus to write the External Exam.
Who is it for?
Working adults who want to get their Diploma (N4-N6) but cannot quit their jobs.
- Available Courses: Business Management, HR, Public Management, Management Assistant, and Engineering N1-N6.
7. Funding (NSFAS)
- Coverage: Tuition + Registration + Allowances (Transport/Personal Care).
- Application: You must apply via myNSFAS.
- College Bursaries: False Bay also manages sector-specific bursaries (e.g., from SETAs for the Animation or Boat Building courses). Ask the Financial Aid officer at Fish Hoek or Westlake about these.
Conclusion: The “Private” Public College
False Bay TVET College often feels like a private institution because of its facilities and strict management. This is a good thing—it means your qualification is respected by employers in Cape Town.
Whether you want to build luxury yachts or manage a government department, FBC offers a premium path. But remember: Premium places fill up fast. Get your application in before September 2025 for the 2026 intake.
Disclaimer: Fees listed are estimates based on the 2025/2026 schedule and are subject to change. Always consult the official False Bay TVET College website for the final fee structure.