Buffalo City TVET College is a public Technical and Vocational Education and Training institution located in East London, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The college operates under the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and provides nationally accredited vocational qualifications across four campuses.
Buffalo City TVET College was established in 2002 through the merger of East London College, Border Technical College, and John Knox Bokwe Careers College.
The institution offers National Certificate Vocational (NCV) programmes, NATED (Report 191) qualifications, and occupational skills programmes. These qualifications align with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and prepare students for employment, apprenticeships, and further academic study.
Buffalo City TVET College serves the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality and surrounding Eastern Cape communities. The college maintains accreditation from DHET and complies with national quality assurance standards for vocational education.
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Buffalo City TVET College Campuses and Locations
Buffalo City TVET College operates four campuses in East London, each specializing in specific academic programmes. The campuses provide access to engineering workshops, computer laboratories, and vocational training facilities.
East London Campus
East London Campus is located at Corner Lukin Road and King Street, East London, 5201. This campus serves as the primary site for business studies programmes. Students access the campus via public transport routes through the Selborne area.
The campus offers NCV programmes, including:
- Office Administration
- Tourism
- Finance, Economics, and Accounting
- Information Technology and Computer Practice
- Education and Development
- Mechatronics
Contact details: Telephone 043 8800 177, Email infodesk@bccollege.co.za
John Knox Bokwe Campus
John Knox Bokwe Campus is situated at Mfaxa Street, NU1, Mdantsane, East London, 5201. The campus is located 6.7 kilometers from East London city centre and specializes in engineering programmes.
NCV engineering programmes at this campus include:
- Civil Engineering and Building Construction
- Electrical Infrastructure Construction
- Engineering and Related Design
- Safety in Society
Contact details: Telephone 043 8800 177, Email admin@bccollege.co.za
St Marks Campus
St Marks Campus is located at St. Marks Street, Southernwood, East London, 5201. The campus is positioned 700 meters from East London Campus and offers NATED programmes in business and engineering disciplines.
The campus provides National Diploma NATED qualifications in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, business management, and financial management. Students access training workshops and technical laboratories for practical skills development.
Contact details: Telephone 043 8800 177, Email stmreception2@bccollege.co.za
King Street Campus
King Street Campus is located at 17 King Street, Southernwood, East London, 5201. This campus functions as the School of Occupational Training and delivers apprenticeships, learnerships, and skills programmes.
Occupational programmes include:
- Automotive Repair and Maintenance
- Fitting and Turning
- Electrical Artisan Training
- Mechatronics
- Motor Mechanic
- Water Treatment
- Accounting Technician
- Early Childhood Development
- Wholesale and Retail Operations
Contact details: Telephone 043 8800 177, Email admin@bccollege.co.za
Administration Centre: 43 King Street, Southernwood, Private Bag X9016, East London, 5201. Telephone 043 8800 177, Email marketing1@bccollege.co.za
Courses Offered at Buffalo City TVET College
Buffalo City TVET College offers three categories of vocational qualifications: NCV programmes, NATED programmes, and occupational skills programmes. Each qualification type serves different career pathways and admission requirements.
NCV Programmes (National Certificate Vocational)
NCV programmes span three academic years across NQF Levels 2, 3, and 4. These programmes combine theoretical instruction with practical workplace experience. Students complete Level 2 in year one, Level 3 in year two, and Level 4 in year three.
Entry requirement: Grade 9 certificate
| NCV Programme | Campus Location | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Office Administration | East London Campus | 3 years |
| Tourism | East London Campus | 3 years |
| Finance, Economics and Accounting | East London Campus | 3 years |
| Information Technology | East London Campus | 3 years |
| Civil Engineering and Building Construction | John Knox Bokwe Campus | 3 years |
| Electrical Infrastructure Construction | John Knox Bokwe Campus | 3 years |
| Engineering and Related Design | John Knox Bokwe Campus | 3 years |
NATED Programmes (Report 191)
NATED programmes follow the N1 to N6 qualification structure for engineering and business disciplines. Students complete theoretical modules (N1–N3 or N4–N6) followed by 18 months of workplace practical experience for National Diploma certification.
Entry requirement: Grade 12 with relevant subjects
Engineering NATED programmes at St Marks Campus:
- Electrical Engineering N1–N6
- Mechanical Engineering N1–N6
- Civil Engineering N1–N6
Business NATED programmes at St Marks Campus:
- Business Management N4–N6
- Financial Management N4–N6
- Marketing Management N4–N6
- Office Administration N4–N6
Occupational Skills Programmes and Apprenticeships
Skills programmes provide short-term vocational training for specific occupations. These programmes range from 3 months to 24 months and lead to trade certificates or occupational qualifications.
King Street Campus delivers skills training through partnerships with Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs):
National Skills Fund (NSF) Projects:
- Fitting
- Mechatronics
- Motor Mechanic
- Water and Wastewater Treatment
SETA-funded programmes:
- Fibre Processing and Manufacturing (FP&M SETA)
- Health and Welfare programmes (HWSETA)
- Education, Training, and Development (ETDP SETA)
- Wholesale and Retail SETA
Buffalo City TVET College Online Application for 2026
The Buffalo City TVET College online application is completed through the i-Enabler student portal at ienabler.bccollege.co.za. Applications for the 2026 academic year open in specified intake periods announced by the college.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Access the i-Enabler portal at ienabler.bccollege.co.za. Click “Apply Online” or visit bccollege.co.za and select the Online Applications tab.
Step 2: Create an account using your South African identity document number. The system generates a student number and PIN for portal access.
Step 3: Select campus and programme. Choose one of the four campuses and select your preferred qualification (NCV Level 2, NATED N1 or N4, or skills programme).
Step 4: Upload required documents in PDF format:
- Certified South African identity document
- Latest academic results (Grade 9, Grade 12, or highest qualification)
- Proof of residence
Step 5: Submit the application. The system issues an application reference number. Save this number for status checks.
Application Periods and Deadlines
Main intake applications typically open in August for the following academic year. The 2026 intake period runs from August 2025 through January 2026.
Late applications may be accepted based on programme capacity. Contact the college at 043 8800 177 or email infodesk@bccollege.co.za to confirm late application availability.
How to Check Application Status
Log in to the i-Enabler student portal using your student number and PIN. The portal displays:
- Application received (acknowledgment status)
- Pending documents (outstanding requirements)
- Admission decision (accepted or declined)
- Registration instructions (for accepted applicants)
If you cannot access your PIN, visit any campus or contact the administration centre at 043 8800 177.
Common Application Issues and Solutions
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Forgotten PIN | Verify the student number entered correctly; contact the campus if the issue persists |
| Document upload errors | Visit the nearest campus with an ID document for PIN reset |
| Cannot select modules | Complete programme selection first, then module selection becomes available |
| Application not found | Verify the student number entered correctly; contact the campus if issue persists |
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for Buffalo City TVET College vary by qualification type and programme level. All applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents.
NCV Programme Requirements
Minimum requirement: Grade 9 certificate
Preferred subjects for business programmes:
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
- English
- Business Studies or Economics
Preferred subjects for engineering programmes:
- Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy)
- Physical Sciences
- Engineering Graphics and Design (advantageous)
NATED Programme Requirements
Minimum requirement: Grade 12 certificate
N1–N3 engineering programmes require:
- Mathematics (minimum 40%)
- Physical Sciences (minimum 40%)
N4–N6 business programmes require:
- English (minimum 40%)
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy (minimum 40%)
Required Documentation
All applicants must submit:
- Certified South African identity document (certified within 3 months)
- Certified latest academic results (matric certificate, Grade 9 certificate, or highest qualification)
- Proof of residence (municipal account, affidavit, or lease agreement)
Incomplete applications delay processing. Applicants receive notification via SMS or email if additional documents are required.
Age Requirements
No maximum age limit applies for TVET college admission. Applicants of any age who meet academic requirements may apply.
Fees and NSFAS Funding at Buffalo City TVET College
Buffalo City TVET College fees vary by programme type and study level. The college publishes annual fee structures in the official prospectus available at www.bccollege.co.za.
Estimated Fee Structure
| Programme Type | Approximate Annual Fee | Payment Structure |
|---|---|---|
| NCV Level 2 | R8,000 – R12,000 | Annual or quarterly |
| NCV Level 3 | R8,000 – R12,000 | Annual or quarterly |
| NCV Level 4 | R8,000 – R12,000 | Annual or quarterly |
| NATED N1–N3 | R6,000 – R10,000 per level | Per trimester |
| NATED N4–N6 | R7,000 – R11,000 per level | Per semester |
| Skills Programmes | Varies by programme | Often SETA-funded |
Note: Fees change annually. Verify current fees in the official prospectus or contact the college.
What Fees Cover
Annual fees include:
- Tuition and instruction
- Course materials (some programmes)
- Access to learning facilities
- Student support services
Fees do not include:
- Textbooks (estimated R1,500–R3,000 per year)
- Stationery and equipment
- Accommodation
- Transport
NSFAS Funding for TVET Students
NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) provides bursary funding for eligible students at Buffalo City TVET College. NSFAS covers tuition fees, prescribed textbooks, and living allowances for qualifying students.
NSFAS Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for NSFAS at Buffalo City TVET College:
- South African citizenship
- Combined household income below R350,000 per year
- Admission into a DHET-approved TVET programme
- SASSA grant recipients automatically qualify
How to Apply for NSFAS
Step 1: Register at www.nsfas.org.za before the closing date (typically October for the following year).
Step 2: Complete the NSFAS online application form with household income details and supporting documents.
Step 3: Submit supporting documents:
- ID document
- Proof of income (payslips, IRP5, or affidavit of unemployment)
- Admission letter from Buffalo City TVET College
Step 4: Check application status at www.nsfas.org.za using your ID number.
NSFAS Covers
NSFAS funding includes:
- Full tuition fees (paid directly to the college)
- Textbooks and learning materials allowance
- Personal care allowance (R2,900 per year)
- Transport allowance (up to R7,500 per year for students living far from campus)
- Accommodation allowance (where applicable)
NSFAS Payment Schedule
NSFAS releases funds directly to Buffalo City TVET College for tuition. Student allowances are paid monthly via NSFAS wallet or bank account.
Common NSFAS delays result from incomplete documentation, missing consent forms, or unverified banking details. Students experiencing delays should contact NSFAS at 08000 67327 or the college financial aid office.
Student Portal and i-Enabler Access
The Buffalo City TVET College student portal (i-Enabler) manages applications, registration, and academic records. Students access the portal at ienabler.bccollege.co.za.
Student Portal Functions
The i-Enabler system provides:
- Online applications
- Programme registration
- Module selection
- Academic results and statements
- Financial statements
- Timetable access
- Document uploads
How to Log In
Use your student number and PIN to access the portal. The student number is issued upon initial application. The PIN is generated during account creation or reset at any campus.
Portal Troubleshooting
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Forgotten student number | Check SMS or email confirmation from initial application; contact campus admin |
| Forgotten PIN | Visit campus with ID document for PIN reset; cannot be reset online |
| Portal not loading | Clear browser cache; use Google Chrome or Firefox; avoid Internet Explorer |
| Cannot select modules | Ensure programme selection is complete; contact campus if issue persists |
| Document upload fails | Convert documents to PDF; ensure file size is under 5MB; scan clearly |
For technical portal issues, email admin@bccollege.co.za or call 043 8800 177.
Student Support Services and Facilities
Buffalo City TVET College provides academic support, career guidance, and disability services across all campuses. The college maintains a commitment to inclusivity as a core institutional value.
Academic Support
Student support offices at each campus offer:
- Academic advising
- Study skills workshops
- Tutorial support
- Exam preparation assistance
Career Guidance
Career counselors assist students with:
- Programme selection aligned with career goals
- Job placement support
- Industry connections
- Further study pathways
Disability Support
The college provides accommodations for students with disabilities, including physical access modifications, assistive technology, and specialized learning support. Students requiring accommodations should contact the student support office during the application.
Campus Facilities
Engineering campuses (John Knox Bokwe and St Marks) include:
- Electrical engineering workshops
- Mechanical engineering workshops
- Civil engineering laboratories
- Computer-aided design (CAD) laboratories
Business campuses (East London and St Marks) include:
- Computer laboratories
- Accounting laboratories
- Tourism training facilities
- Office administration training rooms
Skills training campus (King Street) includes:
- Automotive workshops
- Fitting and turning facilities
- Electrical trade workshops
- Mechatronics training centers
Campus-Programme Matrix
This table shows which campus offers each programme type to help applicants select the correct campus during application.
| Programme | East London | John Knox Bokwe | St Marks | King Street |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Office Administration (NCV) | ✓ | |||
| Tourism (NCV) | ✓ | |||
| Finance & Accounting (NCV) | ✓ | |||
| Information Technology (NCV) | ✓ | |||
| Civil Engineering (NCV) | ✓ | |||
| Electrical Infrastructure (NCV) | ✓ | |||
| Engineering Design (NCV) | ✓ | |||
| Electrical Engineering (NATED) | ✓ | |||
| Mechanical Engineering (NATED) | ✓ | |||
| Business Management (NATED) | ✓ | |||
| Fitting & Turning | ✓ | |||
| Automotive Training | ✓ | |||
| Electrical Artisan | ✓ | |||
| Mechatronics | ✓ |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to Buffalo City TVET College online?
Visit ienabler.bccollege.co.za, create an account using your South African ID number, select your campus and programme, upload certified documents, and submit the application. You receive an application reference number upon submission. Track your application status by logging into the i-Enabler portal with your student number and PIN.
What courses does Buffalo City TVET College offer?
Buffalo City TVET College offers NCV programmes (Levels 2–4), NATED programmes (N1–N6), and occupational skills programmes in engineering, business, tourism, and trades. Engineering programmes include electrical, mechanical, and civil engineering. Business programmes include office administration, financial management, and marketing. Skills programmes include automotive repair, fitting and turning, and electrical artisan training.
Where is Buffalo City TVET College located?
Buffalo City TVET College operates four campuses in East London, Eastern Cape: East London Campus (Corner Lukin Road and King Street), John Knox Bokwe Campus (Mfaxa Street, Mdantsane), St Marks Campus (St Marks Street, Southernwood), and King Street Campus (17 King Street, Southernwood). The administration centre is located at 43 King Street, Southernwood, East London, 5201.
Does Buffalo City TVET College accept NSFAS?
Yes, Buffalo City TVET College accepts NSFAS funding for eligible students enrolled in approved programmes. NSFAS covers tuition fees, textbooks, and student allowances for students whose combined household income is below R350,000 per year. Apply for NSFAS at www.nsfas.org.za before the annual closing date.
What are the admission requirements for Buffalo City TVET College?
NCV programmes require a Grade 9 certificate. NATED programmes require a Grade 12 certificate with relevant subjects. Engineering programmes require Mathematics and Physical Sciences. Business programmes require English and Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy. All applicants must submit a certified ID, latest academic results, and proof of residence.
How much are the fees at Buffalo City TVET College?
NCV programme fees range from R8,000 to R12,000 per year. NATED programme fees range from R6,000 to R11,000 per level. Skills programmes vary by programme and SETA funding. Fees do not include textbooks (approximately R1,500–R3,000), accommodation, or transport. NSFAS covers tuition and textbooks for eligible students.
When do applications open for 2026?
Applications for the 2026 academic year typically open in August 2025 and close in January 2026. Limited late applications may be accepted based on programme capacity. Check www.bccollege.co.za or call 043 8800 177 for specific opening and closing dates.
How do I check my application status?
Log in to the i-Enabler student portal at ienabler.bccollege.co.za using your student number and PIN. The portal displays your application status: received, pending documents, or admission decision. If you cannot access your account, visit any campus with your ID document for assistance.
Can I study engineering at Buffalo City TVET College?
Yes, Buffalo City TVET College offers engineering programmes at John Knox Bokwe Campus (NCV), St Marks Campus (NATED), and King Street Campus (artisan training). Programmes include electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, and mechatronics. Entry requirements vary by qualification level.
Does the college have student accommodation?
Buffalo City TVET College does not provide on-campus student residences. Students arrange private accommodation in areas near the campuses, including Southernwood, Vincent, and Mdantsane. Monthly rental costs vary by location and accommodation type.
Contact Information and Next Steps
Prospective students should verify programme availability, confirm application dates, and apply through the official online portal at ienabler.bccollege.co.za.
General Contact Details
Main administration: 043 8800 177
General email: infodesk@bccollege.co.za
Physical address: 43 King Street, Southernwood, Private Bag X9016, East London, 5201
Campus Contact Numbers
All campuses use the central number 043 8800 177 for enquiries.
Next Steps for Applicants
- Review programme options in the official prospectus at www.bccollege.co.za
- Prepare required documents (certified ID, latest results, proof of residence)
- Apply online through i-Enabler before closing dates
- Apply for NSFAS at www.nsfas.org.za if eligible
- Track application status through the student portal
- Await admission decision via SMS, email, or portal notification
For urgent queries, visit any campus during office hours (Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM) or email the relevant campus address listed in this guide.
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