In the heart of Gauteng, South Africa, lies a beacon of healthcare education—Ga-Rankuwa Nursing College. Known for its rigorous academic standards, hands-on clinical training, and commitment to producing highly skilled nurses, Ga-Rankuwa has become a top choice for aspiring healthcare professionals. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or a working healthcare provider seeking specialization, this institution offers a pathway to a fulfilling career in nursing.
This article provides a detailed guide to everything you need to know about Ga-Rankuwa Nursing College: from admission requirements and online application procedures to the courses offered and tuition fees. If you’re ready to make a difference in the lives of others, this is where your journey begins.
About Ga-Rankuwa Nursing College
Ga-Rankuwa Nursing College is a public nursing institution operating under the Gauteng College of Nursing, which is overseen by the Gauteng Department of Health. The college is strategically located within the Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital (DGMAH) precinct, offering students direct access to clinical training in a real hospital environment. It also shares proximity with Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), creating a rich academic and professional ecosystem.
The college is accredited by the South African Nursing Council (SANC) and offers both undergraduate and postgraduate nursing programs. Its mission is to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding needed to serve in South Africa’s diverse healthcare system.
Admission Requirements
To gain entry into Ga-Rankuwa Nursing College, applicants must meet specific academic and administrative criteria. These requirements vary depending on the level of study but generally include the following:
General Requirements for All Applicants
- Grade 12 Certificate with the following subjects:
- Mathematics (Level 4) or Mathematical Literacy (Level 5)
- Physical Science (Level 4)
- Life Sciences (Level 4)
- English (50–59%)
- Minimum APS Score: Typically 24 points or higher
- Age Requirement: Must be 18 years or older at the time of application
- Citizenship: South African ID or valid residency permit
- Medical Fitness: Proof of immunizations and a medical clearance certificate
Additional Requirements for Advanced Programs
- Professional Registration: Must be registered with SANC for postgraduate programs
- Work Experience: Required for post-basic and specialization courses
- Interview or Assessment: Some programs may require a personal interview or entrance exam
Meeting these requirements ensures that students are academically prepared and physically capable of handling the demands of nursing education and practice.
Online Application Process
Applying to Ga-Rankuwa Nursing College is a straightforward process, thanks to the digital application system managed by the Gauteng Department of Health. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process:
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Visit the Gauteng College of Nursing Portal
- Go to www.gauteng.gov.za and navigate to the “Nursing Intake” section.
- Create an Account
- Register using a valid email address and create a secure password.
- Complete the Application Form
- Fill in your personal details, academic history, and program preferences.
- Upload Required Documents
- Certified copy of your ID or passport
- Certified copy of your Grade 12 certificate or latest results
- Proof of residence
- Medical certificate (if required)
- Pay the Application Fee
- A non-refundable fee (usually R100–R200) must be paid via EFT or bank deposit.
- Submit Your Application
- Review all information before submitting. Save your confirmation receipt for future reference.
- Await Communication
- Successful applicants will be contacted via email or SMS regarding assessments or interviews.
Application Timeline
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | April 2025 |
| Applications Close | 30 September 2025 |
| Assessments & Interviews | October–November 2025 |
| Final Selection | December 2025 |
| Classes Begin | January 2026 |
Late applications are generally not accepted, so it’s crucial to apply early and ensure all documents are in order.
Courses Offered
Ga-Rankuwa Nursing College offers a wide range of programs designed to meet the needs of South Africa’s healthcare system. These include foundational nursing qualifications, bridging courses, and specialized postgraduate diplomas.
Undergraduate Programs
1. Diploma in Nursing (General, Psychiatric, Midwifery, Community Health)
- Duration: 4 years
- Description: A comprehensive program that prepares students to become professional nurses capable of working in various healthcare settings.
- Outcome: Registration with SANC as a General Nurse
2. Pupil Enrolled Nursing Science
- Duration: 2 years
- Description: Focuses on basic nursing care and patient support.
- Outcome: Registration as an Enrolled Nurse
3. Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing
- Duration: 1 year
- Description: Entry-level qualification for those new to nursing.
- Outcome: Registration as an Auxiliary Nurse
Postgraduate Diplomas
These are designed for registered nurses seeking specialization in a particular field:
- Advanced Diploma in Midwifery
- Postgraduate Diploma in Critical Care Nursing (Adult)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Primary Care Nursing
- Postgraduate Diploma in Child Nursing
- Postgraduate Diploma in Palliative Care
- Postgraduate Diploma in Ophthalmology
- Postgraduate Diploma in Operating Room Technique
- Postgraduate Diploma in Renal Nursing
- Postgraduate Diploma in Oncology Nursing
Each of these programs typically lasts one year and includes both theoretical and clinical components.
Fees Structure
Tuition fees at Ga-Rankuwa Nursing College are relatively affordable compared to private institutions, making it an excellent choice for students seeking quality education without financial strain.
Estimated Tuition Fees
| Program | Annual Tuition (ZAR) |
|---|---|
| Diploma in Nursing (4 years) | R15,000 – R25,000 |
| Bridging Course (2 years) | R18,000 – R22,000 |
| Post-Basic Specializations (1 yr) | R10,000 – R15,000 |
| Registration Fee | R1,000 – R1,500 |
Additional Costs
- Uniforms: R600 – R1,000
- Textbooks: R2,000 – R5,000 annually
- Accommodation: R1,500 – R3,000/month (subject to availability at DGMAH)
- Transport: R500 – R1,000/month
- Clinical Equipment: R500 – R1,500 (stethoscope, thermometer, etc.)
SANC Annual Fees (2025)
| Category | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Registered Nurses & Midwives | R820 |
| Enrolled Nurses & Midwives | R490 |
| Nursing Auxiliaries | R350 |
Discounts apply for practitioners aged 60 and above.
Contact Information
If you have questions or need assistance with your application, you can reach out to Ga-Rankuwa Nursing College through the following channels:
Campus Address
- Physical Address: 9111 Setlogelo Street, Unit 2, Ga-Rankuwa, 0208
- Postal Address: Private Bag X830, Pretoria, 0001
Email Contacts
- General Inquiries: [email protected]
- Admissions Office: [email protected]
Phone
- Main Line: +27 (0)12 560 0450
You can also visit the Gauteng Department of Health’s website for updates on nursing intake and application procedures.
Why Choose Ga-Rankuwa Nursing College?
Choosing a nursing college is a major decision that can shape your entire career. Here’s why Ga-Rankuwa stands out:
Accredited and Recognized
The college is fully accredited by the South African Nursing Council, ensuring that your qualification is nationally recognized.
Affordable Tuition
As a public institution, Ga-Rankuwa offers high-quality education at a fraction of the cost of private colleges.
Clinical Training at DGMAH
Students gain hands-on experience at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital, one of Gauteng’s largest teaching hospitals.
Diverse Specializations
From midwifery to oncology, the college offers a wide range of postgraduate options for career advancement.
Strong Employment Prospects
Graduates are highly sought after in both public and private healthcare sectors across South Africa.
Final Thoughts
Nursing is more than a profession—it’s a calling. It demands compassion, resilience, and a lifelong commitment to learning. At Ga-Rankuwa Nursing College, you’ll not only get qualitative learning – you will also imbibe a culture of lifelong curiosity and love for further learning. These tenets will become the driving force to take you to the very top of the nursing profession.