26/08/2025

Important Notice: Phase-Out of NATED N1-N3, N4–N6 Programmes

Dear Student,

We would like to inform you about a significant development in line with the Department of Higher Education and Training's (DHET) ongoing efforts to transform the TVET curricula to meet the evolving needs of society and industry.

The DHET has officially announced the phase-out of the NATED Report 191 N4–N6 qualifications. This decision forms part of the national transition from legacy qualifications to updated occupational qualifications aligned with the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) standards.

To support you during this transition, we have prepared a detailed schedule for the final group of students enrolling in the NATED N4–N6 programmes. This schedule highlights the remaining enrolment periods and key milestones, including the last N4–N6 National examination dates.

The phase-out will also apply to the N4 and N5 subjects within the Multi-Disciplinary Draughting Certificate (MDDOP) programme.

What This Means for You?

Students who complete their N-Level programmes on or before 30 June 2026 will continue to receive a DHET Certificate as per the current practice.
Students who complete their N-Level programmes after 30 June 2026 will be issued with only a DHET Statement of Results.
The Statement of Results issued after 30 June 2026 will still be valid and can be used to apply for the National N Diploma.
The National N Diploma will be awarded to all students who meet the requirements, provided this is done on or before 30 June 2029.

Support During This Transition

We are committed to guiding you through this change and ensuring that you have the best possible academic pathway.

Support will include:

Class addresses, orientation sessions, and information days.
Student advisors to assist with individual guidance.

Alternative Study Pathways

AIE offers a unique range of alternative study pathways for all NATED students, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to further their education and articulate into new programmes. From 2024, we have launched several new programmes in the School of Engineering, School of Artisans, and the School of Draughting, with many more in development. These include:

School of Engineering

Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Civil Engineering NQF7

Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Electrical and Electronic Engineering NQF7

Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Mechanical Engineering NQF7

Diploma in Electrical & Electronics Engineering NQF6

Diploma in Civil Engineering NQF6

Higher Certificate in Mechanical Engineering NQF5

Higher Certificate in Engineering in Industrial Engineering NQF5

Foundation Programme (Engineering)

Higher Certificate in Project Management NQF5 (Construction Management)

School of Draughting

Higher Certificate in Multidisciplinary Engineering Drafting and Design NQF5 (ECSA Endorsed)

Higher Certificate in Architectural Technology NQF5?(SACAP Accredited)

Higher Certificate in Digital Art (3D Modelling, Animation, and Visual Effects) NQF5

School of Artisans

Electrician

Fitter & Turner

Welding

Diesel and Automotive Mechanics

Millwright

Boilermaker

Plumber

Auto Electrician

Please also refer to the articulation diagram for the entry requirements at each level of the Higher Education programmes. Students entering with N3 or higher NATED levels should pay special attention to the relevant admission requirements.

Additional Important Information

Repeats and re-registrations:

Students may repeat or re-register for subjects during the phase-out period, provided this is done within the given trimesters.

Recognition of qualifications:

Qualifications completed within the prescribed timeframe remain valid and recognised.

With this broad range of qualifications and pathways, we ensure that no student is left behind, there is an option for everyone, regardless of their starting point.

If you experience difficulties or need further assistance, you can also log a ticket, and the Qualification Coordinator will assist you, alternatively contact your Student Advisor directly.

Yours in education,

Dr. Marietjie Pienaar

Principal of the Academic Institute of Excellence

Chairperson of the Academic Board

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