Frequently asked
questions (FAQs)

Often students have concerns and questions before they decide to register for a course. We’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions:

How do I apply to study at Optimi College? 

One of our Educational Planners will make sure that you qualify for your chosen course and that it suits your educational requirements. You can start the process by:

Why should I apply at Optimi College?

We know the struggles that go with furthering your studies as an adult and how difficult it can be when you must do it all by yourself. Here are some of the reasons why you should choose us as your study partner:

  • Our reputation: Optimi College is a private registered and fully accredited college with years of experience in training and upskilling students from all walks of life.
  • Our offering: We provide an extensive selection of accredited qualifications, short learning programmes, and industry endorsed courses in a wide variety of fields of interest.
  • Our modes of learning: Optimi College recognises the importance of flexibility in education, which is why the majority of our courses are offered either via distance or digital learning.
  • Our affordability: We believe that everyone deserves the right to education, so we structure our course fees in such a manner that it remains affordable and accessible to students.
  • Our student support: Optimi College has a dedicated team of support staff that ensures our students have the best possible study experience.

What are the Optimi College application fees?

Nothing! We don’t charge any application or registration fees. When you enquire with us, one of our Educational Planners will contact you to determine your eligibility for a course before moving forward.

If you qualify for your chosen course, you will pay a deposit which activates your student journey. If you are a distance learning student, this means that your first batch of study material will be sent via courier, and if you are a digital learning student, this means that you will get access to the online learning platform.

What are the application deadlines?

For the majority of our courses there are no application or registration deadlines because you study via distance or digital learning and can determine your own pace. You can start studying at any time!

For our NEBOSH courses we do have cohorts that start on specific dates, but our cohorts are scheduled monthly, meaning you won’t wait long to join the next session.

For our two IT Academy face-to-face course options, classes start in March each year. If you want to join one of these classroom sessions at our Tygervalley campus in Bellville (Cape Town), you need to register before this deadline.

Do you offer classes?

The majority of our courses are offered either via distance or digital learning, which means that you study at your own pace and from the comfort of your own home. For this reason, we can provide study opportunities to students from all over South Africa, and even abroad. No matter where you are located, we have options that could suit your needs.

Note: We currently offer two face-to-face IT classroom options at our Tygervalley campus in Bellville, Cape Town. These fields of specialisation include Software Developer (Full Stack) and Network Engineer. If you are an aspiring IT professional living in the Cape Town area, reach out to us. These classes run from March – December yearly. 

What are the entrance requirements at Optimi College?

At Optimi College, we offer courses that cater to students from various academic levels. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to further their education, including those without a Matric certificate. Our basic entrance requirements are:

  • Students should be at least 16 years of age.
  • Students must be able to read and write English.

It is also advisable that students have access to a computer and the internet, as all our courses have additional resources that are available on our Online Classroom. All our IT Academy courses are in digital format only; students will be studying online.

If students want to enrol for an accredited course, they may require a Grade 10, Grade 11, or Grade 12, depending on the specific course. For more information about the exact course requirements, please consult our website or speak to an Educational Planner for more information.

What documents do I need to submit when I apply?

For all course registrations to be fully processed, we require the following documentation:

  • A copy of your identity document (ID).
  • A completed and signed registration form.
  • Proof of payment of your deposit.

For courses with specific academic entrance requirements related to educational level you will also be required to provide a copy of your highest qualification or school grade passed.

What are the course fees?

We believe that everyone deserves the right to education, so we structure our course fees in such a manner that it remains affordable and accessible to prospective students.

View our course fees.

What are the exam fees?

Some courses have external exams which are not included in your course fee. These fees are subject to change and fluctuate due to exchange rates. To determine whether your chosen course has exams, please visit the relevant course page on our website or speak to an Educational Planner who will be able to assist you.

What payment options are available?

Making payments towards your student account can be done in one of the following ways:

  • Debit order:

    This is the most popular option as it is convenient and hassle-free. One of our Educational Planners will assist you with the process telephonically. Request this option when you speak to us!

  • EFT and mobile banking:
    FNB BANK ACCOUNT DETAILS
    Bank NameFNB
    Branch Code250655
    Account NameOptimi College (Pty) Ltd
    Account Number62624242351
    ReferenceYour student number
  • PayFast:

    You can do an instant payment via our safe and secure online payment portal. Click here to make a payment.

  • Pay@:

    With this method you can either make payments via your banking app or you can pay in-person at any of the following retailers: Makro, Game, Shoprite, Checkers, Boxer, Builders, PEP, Pick n Pay, Spar, Usave, Rhino, Top it Up, Kazang, Flash, Ackermans, or Cambridge Food.

Can I use NSFAS to apply at Optimi College?

No, unfortunately not. NSFAS is awarded for students who want to study at public universities or colleges. We are a private college and thus cannot accept NSFAS grants.

Can I apply for a bursary?

  • We are a private registered college and currently do not offer any bursaries (outside any seasonal promotions).
  • As a private college, NSFAS funding cannot be applied to finance studies.
  • We can assist prospective students with applications for student funding through Capitec Education Finance. Click here to learn more.

Can I study at Optimi College if I am not from South Africa?

The short answer is YES, but it depends on what you want to study.
  • For accredited courses you would need to approach SAQA and submit your highest qualification for evaluation against South African standards.
  • If living in South Africa, we would need a permit from Home Affairs, and you should have an active South African bank account.
  • If you are living outside South African Borders, we will need to make an alternative payment arrangement. Please be aware that there will be extra charges for delivery of study material.

Why is being able to read and write English important?

  • All our study material is written in English, and all assignments must be completed in English. Our support staff also provide subject matter support in English.