Choosing a college is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. The right institution can open doors to your dream career, while the wrong one, especially a fake or unregistered college, can waste your time, money, and potential.
In South Africa, fake colleges often operate under the radar, using clever tactics and false promises to lure unsuspecting students. Here’s how to protect yourself and make informed decisions that will truly benefit your future.
5 Red Flags That a College Might Be Fake
Choosing a college is a major life decision. Sadly, scammers prey on students who are eager to study but may not know what to look out for. Here’s how to spot a fake college before it costs you time, money, and your future.
1. No Accreditation
Real colleges are registered and accredited. Fake ones aren’t.
In South Africa, all private colleges must be registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
Tip: Always ask for accreditation documents and verify them on the DHET website.
2. “Too Good to Be True” Promises
Watch out for offers like:
“Get your degree in 3 months”
“Guaranteed job placement”
“Only R1,000 for a full qualification”
Quality education takes time, commitment, and financial investment. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
3. No Physical Address or Office
Fake institutions often avoid having a real location. A legitimate college will:
Have a verifiable physical campus or office
List working contact numbers
Offer open days or campus visits
If you can’t find them on Google Maps or visit in person, proceed with caution.
4. Unprofessional Website
Be on alert if the website has:
Spelling and grammar errors
Blurry logos or low-quality images
No information about staff, faculty, or student life
A poorly built website is often used to disguise a fake operation.
5. High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Fake colleges use urgency to trick you into paying quickly. Phrases like:
“Register now or lose your spot”
“Limited space – pay immediately”
These are red flags. A real institution gives you time to think, ask questions, and compare options before committing.
Learn more: TVET Colleges That Accept Students Without Matric
How to Protect Yourself from Fake Colleges in South Africa
1. Do Your Research:
Thoroughly investigating a college is a key step in protecting yourself from potential scams. Utilize various resources to gather information and make informed decisions:
- Accrediting Bodies’ Websites: Visit the websites of recognized accrediting bodies to verify the accreditation status of the college. Legitimate institutions willingly provide this information, and accreditation is a hallmark of quality education.
- Student Reviews: Explore student reviews on reputable platforms. Platforms like RateMyProfessors, College Confidential, or specific review websites for educational institutions can offer valuable insights into the experiences of current or former students.
- Government Consumer Complaint Databases: Some countries maintain consumer complaint databases where individuals can report fraudulent activities. Check if there are any complaints or warnings about the college you are considering.
2. Never Pay Upfront:
Legitimate colleges rarely, if ever, demand large sums of money before enrollment. Be cautious if an institution requests exorbitant fees upfront, as this is a common tactic used by fake colleges. Tuition fees are typically paid on a semester or annual basis, and legitimate institutions provide clear and transparent information about payment schedules.
If a college insists on immediate payment or requests a large sum before providing essential information, it is a red flag. Before making any payments, ensure that you have thoroughly verified the legitimacy of the institution and that you understand the terms and conditions of the financial transaction.
3. Seek Guidance:
Consulting with trusted advisors, career counselors, or educational institutions can provide valuable insights and guidance:
- Trusted Advisors: Seek advice from teachers, mentors, or individuals in your network who have experience in the education sector. They may offer valuable perspectives and help you identify any potential risks.
- Career Counselors: Career counselors often have insights into reputable educational institutions and can guide you towards programs that align with your career goals. They can also provide information about common red flags associated with fake colleges.
- Educational Institutions: Reach out to established educational institutions for advice. Many reputable colleges have admissions counselors who can answer your questions and provide information about the accreditation status of the institution you are considering.
By conducting thorough research, avoiding upfront payments, and seeking guidance from trusted sources, you can fortify your defense against fake colleges and make informed decisions that will shape a legitimate and successful educational journey.
How to Check If a College Is Legit: Step-by-Step Guide
Before you apply or pay any fees, it’s essential to verify that the college is officially registered and accredited. Here’s how to do it in South Africa:
Step 1: Visit the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) Website
Go to the official DHET website.
Look for the latest Register of Private Higher Education Institutions
If the college’s name doesn’t appear on this list, it may not be registered—a major red flag.
Step 2: Contact the DHET for Confirmation
Still unsure or want to double-check?
You can directly contact the department:
Email: RegistrarFET@doe.gov.za
Call: 0800 872 222 (Toll-free)
They can confirm whether a college is registered and guide you through the verification process.
Step 3: Check Accreditation with SAQA
Accreditation is different from registration. A college must also be accredited to offer recognized qualifications.
To verify accreditation:
Visit the SAQA website
Search for the institution or qualification under the “Registered Qualifications and Providers” section.
Only colleges accredited by SAQA are allowed to offer recognised qualifications in South Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I tell if a college is registered in South Africa?
You can verify a college’s registration status by visiting the official Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) website: www.dhet.gov.za. Look for the Register of Private Colleges. If the college is not listed, it is not legally allowed to operate.
2. What is the difference between registration and accreditation?
Registration means the institution is legally recognised by the DHET.
Accreditation means the programmes offered are recognised and meet quality standards, usually verified by bodies such as SAQA or UMALUSI.
Both are essential for a legitimate qualification.
3. What happens if I attend an unregistered or fake college?
You may:
Receive a qualification that is not recognised by employers or other institutions
Be unable to register with professional bodies
Lose money on fees you can’t recover
Waste time on a course that won’t help your career
4. Are online colleges safe or are they usually scams?
Not all online colleges are scams. Many reputable South African universities offer online or distance learning options (e.g., UNISA). However, always verify the institution’s registration and accreditation status, especially for fully online platforms.
5. Can I report a fake college?
Yes. You can report suspected fraudulent institutions to the DHET:
Email: RegistrarFET@doe.gov.za
Call: 0800 872 222
You may also report scams to the South African Police Service (SAPS) or Consumer Protection Offices.
6. What questions should I ask before enrolling in a college?
Is the college registered with the DHET?
Is the programme accredited by SAQA or another recognised body?
Where is the physical campus located?
Can I speak to current or former students?
What is the total cost, and what are the payment terms?
7. Are there government bursaries for private colleges?
Yes, but only for registered and accredited private colleges. For example, NSFAS does not typically fund private college students, but SETA bursaries and other sector-based opportunities might.
Fake colleges are getting more sophisticated, but with the right knowledge, you can avoid their traps. Before enrolling anywhere:
Verify everything
Ask tough questions
Don’t ignore your gut
Invest your time, money, and energy in a college that’s registered, accredited, and committed to your future success.