Are you interested in offering tertiary education in South Africa? To legally provide higher education programs, you must register as a private higher education institution with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). This comprehensive guide outlines the specific steps you need to follow, ensuring a smooth and compliant registration process.
Purpose of Registration
Private higher education institutions play a crucial role in South Africa’s education landscape. Registering with the DHET is essential for several reasons:
Quality Education
Registration ensures that private institutions offer high-quality education.
Public Protection
It safeguards the public against unscrupulous and exploitative operators.
Qualification Alignment
Ensures qualifications align with the Higher Education Qualifications Framework (HEQF) and are registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Government Policy Compliance
The registration process ensures adherence to the Higher Education Act, 1997 (Act 101 of 1997), aligning with government policies and legislation.
Program Accreditation and Recognition
For private institutions, program accreditation is a critical aspect:
- Programs must be registered with the DHET.
- Accredited by the Higher Education Quality Committee (HEQC) of the Council on Higher Education (CHE).
- Registered on the NQF by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
- Programs should enjoy recognition both nationally and internationally.
Application Timeline
Plan ahead and initiate the registration process in a timely manner:
First-time Registration
Begin the process 18 months before the institution opens for registration.
Amendment
If amending details, start the process 12 months before the changes come into effect.
Conversion
The timeline for conversion is determined by the Registrar.
Required Documents
When submitting your application, ensure you include the following documents:
- Audited annual financial statements or audited financial forecasts.
- Business plan outlining your institution’s strategy and objectives.
- Surety agreement providing financial security.
- Company registration documents establishing legal identity.
- Occupational health and safety compliance audit reports ensuring a safe environment.
- Business registration certificate verifying official recognition.
- Declaration on application for accreditation committing to quality education.
- Undertaking on institutional capacity affirming the capability to meet educational goals.
- Declaration on monitoring and evaluation showcasing commitment to continuous improvement.
- Inter-institutional agreements, if applicable.
- Student prospectus, calendar, or brochure providing comprehensive program details.
- Enrolment forms, student contracts, and rules and regulations.
For Foreign Applicants
- Declaration on equality of qualifications.
- Proof of recognition in the country of origin.
- Proof of accreditation in the country of origin.
- Accreditation certificate from the HEQC and registration from SAQA.
- Signed declaration against discrimination.
- Details of any changes, if applicable.
- Declaration on monitoring and evaluation, along with an undertaking on the official letterhead, dated and signed.
How much will it cost?
A fee of R500 is applicable for the registration process.
Application Forms
Forms required for the application process can be obtained from the Department of Higher Education and Training. These include:
- Application for registration as a Private Higher Education Institution (form APX -01)
- Application for Amendment (form APX-02)
- Application for Conversion (form APX-03)
Contact Information
For any inquiries or changes during the application process, please contact the Registrar of Private Higher Education Institutions.
By following these steps diligently, you can ensure a successful registration process for your private higher education institution in South Africa.