Accreditation as a provider of education and training

About ETQA accreditation as a provider of education and training

Providers of education and training must apply for accreditation with an Education and Training Quality Assurance (ETQA) body under the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). All providers of education and training offering full qualifications must be registered with the Department of Education.

The education and training provider has to offer unit standards and/or qualifications that fall within the primary focus area of the ETQA body of the relevant Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) or professional body.

Requirements for accreditation:

• The programmes (and/or assessments) offered by the education and training provider must culminate in unit standards and/or qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
• The curriculum (design, content and learning materials) is aligned to the unit standards and/or qualifications. 
• There are suitably qualified staff (facilitators and registered assessors).
• The learners have access to adequate learning support services.
• The assessment methods and tools used to measure the requirements for the unit standard and/or qualification are fair, valid and reliable, and are used to enhance learning.

What you should do

1. Send a letter of your intention to be accredited as a provider of education and training to the relevant ETQA.
2. Submit a self-evaluation and application form to ETQA.
3. If you are not granted accreditation and you feel the process was unfair, you have a right to appeal. 

How long does it take

It may take up to six months.

How much does it cost

The service is free.

Forms to complete

Provider accreditation application forms and related documentation may be obtained from the relevant ETQA.

Who to contact