What Are Requirements For Nursing At Baragwanath Nursing College?

Becoming a professional nurse in South Africa starts with choosing the right institution—and Baragwanath Nursing College stands out as one of the most respected nursing colleges in the country. Located within the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital precinct in Johannesburg, this institution offers in-depth training, hands-on experience, and a clear pathway to becoming a qualified nurse. But before applying, understanding the entry requirements is crucial.

In this post, we break down everything you need to know about eligibility, documentation, qualifications, and other key considerations to help you take the first step toward your nursing career.

🩺 Top Takeaways

Here are the essential highlights you should know before applying to Baragwanath Nursing College:

✔️ You must have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification.
✔️ Entry into nursing programs requires passes in specific subjects like Mathematics, Physical or Life Sciences, and English.
✔️ Applicants must meet the minimum APS (Admission Point Score) requirement.
✔️ You must be a South African citizen (or have valid legal residency and documentation).
✔️ Baragwanath offers different nursing programs: Diploma, Higher Certificate, and Bachelor’s Degree.
✔️ Selection not only depends on academic qualification but also on interviews and health assessments.

📚 Table of Contents

General Academic Requirements
Specific Subject & APS Score Requirements
Age, Citizenship & Health Criteria
Programs Offered at Baragwanath Nursing College
How to Apply
Documents Needed
Helpful Tips for Admission Success
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

General Academic Requirements

Baragwanath Nursing College requires a strong academic foundation to ensure students are up to the demands of the nursing profession.

Applicants must have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification.
Minimum education level: Grade 12 (Matric) pass with exemption.
Certification should come from the Department of Basic Education in South Africa or its accredited international equivalent.

👉 Learn more about general academic requirements on the official Nursing College site.

Specific Subject & APS Score Requirements

The college emphasizes performance in core subjects that correlate to nursing competencies.

You must have passed the following subjects:
- English (First or Second Language)
- Life Sciences or Biology
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
- Physical Science (advantageous)
Minimum APS: Typically ranges between 20 and 28 points depending on the program.

APS Breakdown (example):
– English: 4
– Life Sciences: 4
– Mathematical Literacy: 3
– Any additional subjects: must score 3 or higher

Ensure to use the Department of Higher Education’s APS calculator to get your accurate score.

Age, Citizenship & Health Criteria

Aside from educational credentials, other personal criteria determine eligibility.

Must be at least 17 years old at the time of application.
Must be a South African citizen or hold legal permanent residency.
A clean criminal record is typically expected.
A physical and mental health assessment may be required during the selection process to determine fitness for the profession.

💡 Tip: Visit the Nursing College homepage frequently for updated criteria for each academic year.

Programs Offered at Baragwanath Nursing College

Baragwanath Nursing College offers professional and qualification-specific programs recognized by the South African Nursing Council (SANC).

Here are the main programs you can apply for:

Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing (1-year)
Diploma in Nursing (General) – 3-year program
Bridging Program (for Enrolled Nurses upgrading qualifications)
Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing Science (partner institutions)

💬 Learn more about the different programs on this dedicated nursing program page.

How to Apply

The application is done through the Gauteng Department of Health online system.

Steps:

Visit the Gauteng Health Online Application Portal.
Navigate to the “Nursing Intake” section.
Complete the online form with accurate personal and academic information.
Upload necessary documents.
Submit before the closing date.

👉 Application windows usually open in early year (March–May). Always check dates on the Nursing College website.

Documents Needed

You will need several certified documents for your application to be considered complete.

Prepare the following in advance:

Certified copy of your South African ID or passport
Certified copy of your Matric Certificate or latest Grade 12 results
Proof of residence
Medical report (if required)
Police clearance (if required)
Affidavit confirming no other bursary or financial assistance (if requested)

These documents must be scanned and attached to your online application.

Helpful Tips for Admission Success

Maximize your chances of admission with these recommended strategies:

Apply as early as possible—don’t wait until the deadline.
Ensure your subject choices meet the minimum required standards.
Obtain excellent Matric results, particularly in Sciences and English.
Write a strong personal motivation letter (if needed during selection).
Prepare well for the interview phase.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ What is the minimum APS to apply at Baragwanath Nursing College?
- ✔️ The minimum APS is generally between 20 and 28, depending on the course selected.
❓ Do I need both Maths and Life Sciences for admission?
- ✔️ Yes, Life Sciences or Biology is a primary requirement. Maths is essential, but Mathematical Literacy may sometimes be accepted for specific programs.
❓ Is Baragwanath Nursing College government-funded?
- ✔️ Yes, it is supported by the Gauteng Department of Health.
❓ Are bursaries available?
- ✔️ Eligible students may receive funding from the Department of Health or private sponsors. Bursary availability depends on academic performance and financial need.
❓ Can foreign nationals apply?
- ✔️ Yes, but international students must have valid documentation and equivalent qualifications verified by SAQA.
❓ How often are applications open?
- ✔️ Applications typically open once a year. Always check the official site for current dates.
❓ Is there an age limit for applicants?
- ✔️ There’s no strict upper age limit, but applicants must be 17 years or older.

🔗 External Resources for Further Knowledge:

Start your journey towards becoming a nurse by visiting the Nursing College’s official website to stay updated on key dates, application procedures, and evolving requirements.

👩‍⚕️ Nurses are the backbone of healthcare—prepare with the right information and take your first confident step.

What Are Requirements For Nursing At Baragwanath Nursing College?