The Department of Health Nurse Training Programme 2027: Apply for Higher Certificate in Nursing

The Department of Health, through Henrietta Stockdale Nursing College, has opened applications for the 2027 Nurse Training Programme. The opportunity is aimed at prospective students who want to pursue a career in nursing through the Higher Certificate in Nursing programme.

The programme is registered at NQF Level 5, has a duration of one year, and is regulated under SANC Regulation R.169. Applications are open to qualifying applicants from the Northern Cape, with the closing date set for 25 September 2026.

Higher Certificate in Nursing 2027

The Northern Cape Department of Health is inviting prospective students to apply for full-time study at Henrietta Stockdale Nursing College.

The Higher Certificate in Nursing programme provides an opportunity for eligible applicants to begin their journey towards a career in the healthcare sector. Nursing requires dedication, compassion, discipline and a willingness to work with patients, healthcare professionals and communities.

Applicants should carefully check all admission requirements before applying because only candidates who meet the specified criteria will be considered.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must have a Grade 12 or Matric National Senior Certificate endorsed by Umalusi and qualifying for admission to a Higher Certificate or diploma.

The required subjects and achievement levels include:

• Life Sciences/Biology: Level 3 or HG E / SG D
• English: Level 4 or HG D / SG C
• Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy and Physical Science: These subjects will be an added advantage.
• APS/Matriculation score: A score of 20 or above for the six highest subjects, excluding Life Orientation.

An important requirement is that only applicants from the Northern Cape will be considered.

Applicants who are currently registered at another institution will also not be accepted for this programme.

Documents Required

Applicants should prepare all supporting documents before starting the online application.

The following documents must be uploaded:

• Certified copy of South African ID
• Certified copy of NSC/Matric certificate
• Certified copy of marriage or divorce certificate, where applicable
• Proof of residence from the local municipality or tribal authority

Applicants should ensure that their documents are properly certified, clear and ready to upload when completing the application.

Online Applications Only

Applications for the 2027 Nurse Training Programme must be submitted strictly online.

Henrietta Stockdale Nursing College will not accept hand-delivered, mailed, faxed or emailed applications. Prospective students must use the official e-Services portal to submit their applications.

Applicants are encouraged to complete the process carefully and ensure that all required information and documents are provided before submitting their application.

Bursary Opportunity

Successful applicants will apply for a bursary from the Northern Cape Department of Health and will be required to sign a contract with the Department.

Applicants should note that meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee selection. The Department reserves the right not to fill the available opportunities.

Closing Date

The closing date for the 2027 Higher Certificate in Nursing Programme is:

25 September 2026

Applicants are encouraged to apply before the closing date to avoid last-minute problems with the online application system.

The college has indicated that correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates. If an applicant is not contacted within six weeks after the closing date, the application should be considered unsuccessful.

Henrietta Stockdale Nursing College Enquiries

For questions relating to the programme or application process, prospective students can contact Henrietta Stockdale Nursing College using the details below:

Telephone: 053 831 4695 / 053 831 4673

Email: info.hsnc@gmail.com

Final Thoughts

The Northern Cape Nurse Training Programme 2027 is an opportunity for qualifying Northern Cape applicants who are interested in building a career in nursing. Before applying, make sure you meet the academic requirements, satisfy the Northern Cape residency requirement and have all the necessary documents ready.

If you are interested in becoming a nurse, this one-year Higher Certificate in Nursing programme could be an important first step towards your career in healthcare.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online through the official e-Services portal: