Limpopo College of Nursing Applications for 2027 Now Open

The Limpopo Department of Health is opening its doors for aspiring nurses, inviting applications for the 2027 academic year at the Limpopo College of Nursing. This is a significant opportunity for individuals looking to enter the healthcare field, offering two distinct training programs. Whether you aim for a comprehensive three-year Diploma in Nursing or a focused one-year Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing, the application process is now underway. Understanding the requirements and deadlines for each program is key to a successful application.

Understanding the Nursing Programmes Available for 2027

The Limpopo College of Nursing offers two main pathways for aspiring nursing professionals for the 2027 intake. These programs are regulated differently and have distinct durations and closing dates. It is important to note that these are separate applications, each with its own set of forms, prospectuses, and online links.

The Diploma in Nursing: General (R.171) is a three-year program designed to provide a broad foundation in general nursing practice. This program is advertised under Departmental Circular No. 67 of 2026 and has a departmental reference of S5/05/27. The application deadline for this program is 30 November 2026.

The Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing (R.169) is a one-year program focused on auxiliary nursing duties. This program falls under Departmental Circular No. 66 of 2026, with a departmental reference of S5/01/27. The closing date for applications for this program is 31 October 2026.

Both programs are available across all five Limpopo districts: Capricorn, Mopani, Sekhukhune, Vhembe, and Waterberg. Applicants must ensure they select the correct program and district when applying.

Applying for the Diploma in Nursing: General (R.171)

The three-year Diploma in Nursing: General is offered in accordance with Government Notice R.171 of 8 March 2013. To apply for this program, candidates must first download and complete the appropriate application documents. These include the R.171 application form and the rating scale. Additionally, a revised prospectus is available to provide detailed information about the program.

For enrolled nurses employed by the Department who are applying as study-leave candidates, a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) form must also be completed. This ensures that previous experience and qualifications are considered.

The application process is conducted online, with separate links for each of the five districts. Applicants must use the specific link corresponding to their chosen district. For example, to apply for the R.171 Diploma in Nursing in the Capricorn District, applicants should use the reference LDH/10/006. Similar unique references are provided for Mopani (LDH/10/007), Sekhukhune (LDH/10/008), Vhembe (LDH/10/009), and Waterberg (LDH/10/0010). It is important to note that the application URLs may display “2026” but are intended for the 2027 academic year intake.

Applying for the Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing (R.169)

The one-year Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing is regulated under Government Notice R.169 of 8 March 2013. Applicants for this program need to use the documents specifically designed for the R.169 intake, including the rating scale and application form. A revised prospectus for the R.169 program is also available for review.

Similar to the diploma program, applications for the auxiliary nursing certificate are district-specific and submitted online. Each district has a unique reference number for the R.169 applications. For instance, the Capricorn District application uses reference LDH/10/001. The other districts are Mopani (LDH/10/002), Sekhukhune (LDH/10/003), Vhembe (LDH/10/004), and Waterberg (LDH/10/005). As with the R.171 program, the application links may indicate “2026” but are for the 2027 intake.

Required Documents for Application

Regardless of the program chosen, applicants must prepare a set of essential documents. These include the correct application form for the selected program, the corresponding rating scale, and certified copies of educational qualifications, such as a Matric or National Senior Certificate. Proof of residence and a copy of the applicant’s identity document are also mandatory.

For R.171 applicants who are currently enrolled nurses employed by the Department and applying through the RPL route, the specific RPL application form is an additional requirement. It is strongly advised that applicants consult the 2027 prospectus for their chosen program to confirm the exact admission and subject requirements, as these may differ from previous years.

Application Fee and Payment

A non-refundable administration fee of R150 is required for both the R.171 Diploma and the R.169 Higher Certificate programs for the 2027 intake. Applicants must refer to the relevant program prospectus for detailed banking information. Proof of payment must be attached to the application. The advertisements clarify that no payment is required when initially applying to be registered for nurse training.

Important Closing Dates to Remember

Meeting the application deadlines is critical. The Limpopo College of Nursing has set distinct closing dates for each program:

• Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing (R.169): 31 October 2026
• Diploma in Nursing: General (R.171): 30 November 2026

It is crucial for applicants to note these differences and submit their applications well before the respective deadlines. Applying for the R.169 program after its October deadline will not be possible, even if the R.171 deadline is later in November.

What Happens After You Apply?

The Limpopo College of Nursing has the discretion to select or not select applicants based on various criteria. Communication will only be extended to selected candidates. If an applicant does not receive any communication from the College by the end of February 2027, they should assume their application has been unsuccessful. This timeline allows the college sufficient time for the selection process.

Enquiries and Further Information

For any additional information or clarification regarding the application process, prospective students can contact the Limpopo College of Nursing Student Affairs Offices. They can be reached by telephone at 015 291 1120 during regular office hours. It is always advisable to reach out for any doubts to ensure all application requirements are met correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions