Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Your Ultimate Guide to Studying with Us
Frequently Asked Questions
You can complete your application at any time of the year. There are various intakes during the course of the year. March, June, August and October. Apply Now
You can apply at any time of the year with your grade 11 term 4 results or your grade 12 June or September results. These results may gain you provisional acceptance, however, only your final school leaving results can be used to gain full acceptance into The DaVinci Institute.
If you’re currently in matric and wondering whether the NBT (National Benchmark Tests) are required for admission, the answer is no. The NBT is not part of the entry requirements for qualifications offered at The DaVinci Institute.
Our admissions process considers other criteria, such as your academic results, motivation, and supporting documentation. You do not need to complete the NBT to be considered for acceptance.
Should additional assessments be needed, the Admissions Team will communicate this directly during the evaluation of your application.
[caption id="attachment_2364" align="alignnone" width="300"]
What’s Next for Matrics Who Can’t Get Into Public Universities?[/caption]
You can apply to study at DaVinci by completing an online application.
For undergraduate studies the following documents are required:
Certified ID copy
For grade 12 learners: your grade 11, term 4 results or your grade 12 June or September results.
For students who have completed grade 12 or the equivalent: Certified Matric certificate
Proof of application fee payment of R 350.00
CLICK HERE TO PAY YOUR R350 APPLICATION FEE ONLINE VIA YOCO
Provisional admission is granted based on the results of the Grade 11, Term 4 or Grade 12 June or September results. Please note that the final National Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification results remain the determining factor for admission. Click here to apply online.
The application fee is R350 and is non-refundable. Payment is paid after filling in your application.
An email will be sent to you with banking details or option to pay online via YOCO
Your Final Year School Marks are the ultimate requirement for admission, but you may apply in the meantime using your Grade 11 Term 4 results, or your Grade 12 June or September results. Once your final results are released, they will be used as the determining factor for admission.
This means that your admission will be final only once you have met the final requirements stated in your letter of admission. The requirements may include achieving the grades you need for your course, qualifying for matriculation exemption with your final results, etc. or submitting the correct documents.
Please see the admission requirements here.
Our applications are always open as we have 5 intakes per year. Our intakes are January, March, June, August and October.
I’ve applied. What happens now?
Once you’ve submitted your application, a member of our Admissions Team will carefully review your documents and assess whether all the required information has been provided. If anything is outstanding, or if further documentation is needed, you will receive personalised feedback outlining the next steps in the admissions process.
If you’re wondering, “I have applied, but haven’t received any feedback”, please allow up to 48 hours for our team to respond. During peak periods, response times may vary slightly, but we strive to keep you informed throughout.
Should you not hear back within this timeframe, feel free to follow up by emailing admissions@davinci.ac.za to ensure your application is being processed without delay.
You should receive feedback within 48 hours. If you have not heard back within 48 hours, kindly send an email to admissions@davinci.ac.za
The DaVinci Institute accepts document certifications from the following authorized individuals or entities:
- Notary Public: A licensed professional authorized to certify documents.
- Commissioner of Oaths: An individual, such as an attorney or designated official, empowered to administer oaths and certify documents.
- South African Police Service (SAPS) Station: A certified officer at an SAPS station can certify documents. Please visit your local police station for assistance.
- School Principals: For academic-related documents, a principal of a recognized educational institution may certify documents.
The DaVinci Institute for Technology Management (Pty) Ltd is a private higher education institution and is registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training as a private higher education institution under the Higher Education Act, 1997. Registration No. 2004/HE07/003
The main difference between a public and private university is how the institutions receive their funding. Public higher education institutions are funded by the government, whilst private higher education institutions are solely funded by student tuition fees.
DaVinci offers higher education qualifications in the distance mode of delivery, accredited by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and registered on the national Qualifications Framework (NQF) by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
English serves as the official language of instruction for all qualifications offered by The DaVinci Institute. This means that all learning materials, teaching sessions, assignments, and formal communications are presented in English to maintain a consistent academic experience.
Students are therefore expected to demonstrate proficiency in both spoken and written English. This ensures active participation in discussions, successful engagement with the learning material, and effective completion of assessments. Where necessary, additional language support may be recommended.
Using English as the language of instruction allows DaVinci to support a diverse community of learners while aligning with global academic standards.
[caption id="attachment_4873" align="alignnone" width="300"]
Picture of The DaVinci Institute[/caption]
Unfortunately, we are not NSFAS funded as we are a private higher education institution. NSFAS only funds public higher education institutions.
We do not offer student loans, however you can click here for funding options.
At The DaVinci Institute, we are often asked, “Do you offer bursaries?” While we do not currently offer bursaries directly, there are still opportunities available for financial assistance.
If you are currently employed, we recommend speaking to your line manager or human resources department to find out whether your organisation offers study sponsorships or funding for employee development. Many companies in South Africa support further education as part of their skills development initiatives.
For a detailed quotation or to learn more about payment options, please contact our admissions team at admissions@davinci.ac.za.
A quick Google search will reveal many different websites where one can apply for a bursary.
Yes, you can pay your fees monthly, quarterly, half yearly and upfront for the year.
In South Africa, all higher education programmes must be quality assured by the Council on Higher Education’s Higher Education Quality Committee (HEQC). Once the HEQC has approved a programme, it is listed on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) which is administered by the South African Qualifications Authority
Going internationally, this gives our qualifications a framework against which to measure the qualification in terms of international standards. We are proud of our internationally recognised qualifications.
Yes, The Da Vinci Institute considers alternative school curricula, including Cambridge, GED, and SAICA, when reviewing applications for admission. Our admissions team is familiar with various local and international education systems and can advise prospective students on eligibility and the best study pathway based on their qualifications. Our admissions team understands both local and international education systems and will guide you on your eligibility, as well as recommend the most suitable study pathway based on your qualifications and career goals.
The DaVinci Institute’s headquarters building.
If your previous qualification was obtained from a South African institution accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and recognised on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), you do not need to submit your qualifications for SAQA verification when applying for postgraduate studies at The Da Vinci Institute.
However, if your qualification is international, or if there is any uncertainty regarding its NQF level, SAQA verification may be required before your postgraduate application can be considered.
Closing Date for Postgraduate Studies
There is no fixed closing date for postgraduate studies at The DaVinci Institute. With various intakes per year, our flexible academic calendar allows you to apply when it best suits your personal and professional schedule.
We accept applications in March, June, August, and October, making it easier for prospective postgraduate students to begin their learning journey without waiting for a once-a-year deadline.
If you’re ready to apply or would like more information on upcoming intakes, feel free to contact our Admissions Team at admissions@davinci.ac.za.
Dr Portia Heynes, a 2025 doctoral graduate of The DaVinci Institute.
Transferring from Another Tertiary Institution | Module Credits
If you are transferring from another tertiary institution and have completed relevant modules within the same faculty or a related qualification stream, you may be eligible to apply for module credits at The DaVinci Institute.
This process is handled through our Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT) system, which allows students to gain recognition for prior learning and avoid duplicating coursework. Each application is evaluated individually to ensure alignment with DaVinci’s academic requirements.
To start the process, please email your academic transcript and module outlines to admissions@davinci.ac.za. The Admissions Team will guide you through the next steps and let you know what additional information may be needed.
The DaVinci Institute’s headquarters building.
The process for our local and international students are the same. We have a large community of international students. Complete your online application here.
There are no set Closing Dates for International Students at The DaVinci Institute. We offer various flexible intakes throughout the year, in March, June, August and October, allowing you to begin your studies at a time that suits you. We encourage international applicants to apply early to allow sufficient time for visa processing and travel arrangements.
[caption id="attachment_4227" align="alignnone" width="300"]
What are the closing dates for international students?[/caption]
Additional fees do not apply specifically to international students. All costs are outlined in the standard tuition and fee schedule, and any extra charges would depend on optional services such as accommodation, course materials, or specialised programmes.
Click here to view the fees:
If you require a personalised quotation for tuition fees, please contact our admissions team at admissions@davinci.ac.za.
Tuition Fees
If you are considering enrolling at The DaVinci Institute and need a quotation for tuition fees, the process is quick and straightforward. Whether you’re planning to study towards a Bachelor of Commerce, a Master’s degree, or a specialised certificate, understanding the cost upfront is an important step in your academic journey.
To receive an accurate quotation tailored to your chosen programme, please email our admissions team at admissions@davinci.ac.za. Be sure to include the qualification you’re interested in, along with your full name and contact details.
Our team will promptly provide you with a personalised fee breakdown that includes tuition costs and any applicable registration or administration fees.
For more information about our qualifications and flexible payment options, explore our website or get in touch today.
Our banking details are:
The student will pay any amounts due into the following account:
Name: The Da Vinci Institute for Technology Management
Bank: Standard Bank
Branch: Sandton
Code: 019205
Acc no: 022717277
Swift code: SBZAZAJJ
Reference: Name and Surname
Payment options are monthly, quarterly, half yearly and upfront for the year.
Discounts are available for alumni students.
The initial payment for postgraduate students at The DaVinci Institute, which is an admission fee of R12,600, is payable before the start of your studies.
[caption id="attachment_4295" align="alignnone" width="300"]
Dr Goni Saar, a doctoral graduate of The DaVinci Institute.[/caption]
The initial admission payment for undergraduate students is R4 200.00 for all Bachelor of Commerce electives. However, if you are registering for the Bachelor of Commerce with electives in Aviation Management, the initial admission payment is R18 200.00.
Thuso Mojatau, an FNB employee and BCom graduate of The DaVinci Institute.
Tuition Fees for International Students
At The DaVinci Institute, tuition fees for international students are the same as those for South African students. We are committed to maintaining a fair and inclusive fee structure that supports access to education for students from across the globe.
If you need assistance with converting fees into your local currency or understanding payment timelines, our team is available to guide you. Email: admissions@dainci.ac.za
When applying to study at The DaVinci Institute, a non-refundable application fee of ZAR350 is required to process your submission. This fee helps us to manage the administrative process involved in reviewing applications and ensuring timely feedback for all prospective students.
If you’re applying through our online application platform, you can make payment quickly and securely via YOCO, our trusted online payment gateway. Simply follow this link to pay your application fee:
https://pay.yoco.com/r/m6rxxE
Once you’ve completed your application, you will receive an automated confirmation email that includes your reference number, a copy of your application, and payment instructions in case you need them again.
Please note:
Payment must be made before your application can be reviewed.
Be sure to use your full name as the payment reference to help us match your payment with your application.
Keep a copy of your payment confirmation for your records.
If you experience any issues during payment or do not receive a confirmation email, our admissions team is here to help. You can reach out to us at admissions@davinci.ac.za for support.
We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming you to The DaVinci Institute.
[caption id="attachment_3747" align="alignnone" width="300"]
Ms Towera Gondwe
Executive: Governance & Registry[/caption]
To make the most of your remote learning experience at The DaVinci Institute, it’s important to have the right tools in place. Your laptop and internet connection serve as the foundation of your academic success, helping you access course materials, engage in virtual sessions, and complete assignments efficiently.
We recommend the following minimum laptop specifications for smooth performance:
Processor: Intel Core i3
Storage: 125GB hard drive
Memory: 8GB RAM
These specifications will allow you to access our Learning Management System (LMS), use essential software like Microsoft Word and Excel, and participate in virtual discussions via Microsoft Teams without disruptions. A device below these specs may result in slower processing times and challenges during video calls or file submissions.
When it comes to internet connectivity, we suggest:
Minimum data allowance: 10GB per month
Connection type: LTE or fibre is ideal for stability during virtual sessions
This data recommendation ensures that you can comfortably attend online meetings and collaborate with lecturers and peers. However, it’s important to note that our Learning Management System (LMS) is zero-rated, meaning you can access it without using any data, helping to reduce overall internet costs.
Investing in a reliable laptop and consistent internet connection helps ensure that nothing stands between you and your studies. If you need further guidance on setup or device compatibility, our support team is here to assist.
[caption id="attachment_4227" align="alignnone" width="300"] Laptop and internet[/caption]
At The DaVinci Institute, we understand that pursuing higher education, especially through distance learning, can present a unique set of challenges. That’s why we’ve developed a comprehensive student support structure designed to empower you throughout your academic journey. Our aim is to ensure that every student has access to the tools, guidance and encouragement they need to succeed – both in their studies and in the workplace.
[caption id="attachment_3891" align="alignnone" width="300"]
Dr Linda Chipunza[/caption]
Led by Dr Linda, our student support team offers dedicated assistance tailored to the realities faced by working professionals and postgraduate learners. Whether you’re adjusting to the demands of distance learning, transitioning from undergraduate to postgraduate studies, or simply need help balancing life and learning, our support services are here to guide you every step of the way.
Our specialists assist students with the following:
Acculturation to distance learning
Balancing work, studies and personal life
Group and one-on-one coaching and mentoring aligned to your professional context
Applying learning in the workplace
Motivating students who may feel underprepared or disengaged
Navigating the shift from undergraduate to postgraduate study
Preparing for oral defences (vivas)
Developing critical thinking skills
Enhancing time management and study techniques
For more information on how our student support structure can help you thrive, [read this article].
Graduates of The DaVinci Institute are employed across a diverse range of industries, reflecting the broad, workplace-focused nature of its qualifications.
Rather than preparing students for a single career path, DaVinci equips graduates with leadership, innovation, and management capabilities that are applicable across multiple sectors. (more…)
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a formal process through which knowledge, skills, and competencies acquired outside of traditional academic study are assessed and recognised for admission, exemption, or credit within a registered qualification.
RPL at The DaVinci Institute is conducted in accordance with national policies including stipulations by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) to align with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). The relevant national policies inform The DaVinci Institute’s institutional RPL policy. (more…)
The Refer a Student Programme is an initiative by The DaVinci Institute that allows individuals to refer prospective students who are interested in advancing their education and leadership capabilities. It is designed to connect more people to meaningful, work-integrated learning opportunities.
Who can refer a student?
Anyone can participate in the programme. This includes alumni, current students, staff, corporate partners, and members of the public who know someone that would benefit from studying at The DaVinci Institute.
Who can be referred?
You can refer any individual who is interested in pursuing a qualification at The DaVinci Institute and meets the relevant admission requirements for their chosen programme.
How do I refer a student?
You can submit your referral by completing the online referral form available on our website:
https://davinci.ac.za/refer-a-student/
What happens after I submit a referral?
Once the referral is submitted, our team will contact the prospective student to guide them through the application process and provide relevant programme information.
Is there a reward for referring a student?
Yes, the programme includes a referral incentive, which is governed by the official referral policy. Details of the reward structure and eligibility criteria are outlined in the policy available on the website.
Are there any terms and conditions?
Yes, all referrals are subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the official referral policy. We encourage you to review the policy to understand the full process, eligibility, and reward criteria.
Where can I find more information?
You can learn more about the programme, access the referral form, and review the policy here:
https://davinci.ac.za/refer-a-student/
Graduates of The DaVinci Institute are employed across a diverse range of industries, reflecting the broad, workplace-focused nature of its qualifications.
Rather than preparing students for a single career path, DaVinci equips graduates with leadership, innovation, and management capabilities that are applicable across multiple sectors.
Industries where DaVinci graduates are active include:
- Accommodation and Food Services
- Administrative and Support Services
- Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing
- Arts, Entertainment and Recreation
- Automotive and Aerospace
- Construction
- Education and Training
- Financial Services and Insurance
- Health and Social Services
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- Legal Services
- Manufacturing
- Military and Defence
- Mining and Quarrying
- Non-Profit Organisations (NGOs)
- Professional, Scientific and Technical Services
- Public Administration and Government
- Telecommunications
- Transportation and Logistics
- Utilities (Electricity, Gas and Water)
- Wholesale and Retail Trade
Why DaVinci graduates work across so many industries
The DaVinci Institute’s learning model is designed around real workplace challenges. This approach develops capabilities that are transferable across sectors, including:
- Systems thinking and problem-solving
- Leadership and people management
- Innovation and change management
- Technology and business integration
Because these skills are relevant in any organisational context, graduates are able to move across industries or grow within their current sector.
Designed for a changing world of work
As industries continue to evolve due to technology, globalisation, and shifting economic demands, organisations require professionals who can think beyond functional roles.
DaVinci graduates are prepared to contribute in complex environments, whether in corporate, public sector, or entrepreneurial settings.
The DaVinci Institute can also be understood as a business-focused higher education institution because its qualifications are designed for professionals, managers, leaders and organisations. Its academic model is strongly connected to workplace application, leadership development and innovation. (more…)
The DaVinci Institute is a private higher education institution in South Africa. It is registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training as a private higher education institution under the Higher Education Act, 1997. (more…)
Public universities are funded mainly by the government, while private higher education institutions are funded through tuition fees and other private income streams. However, both public and private higher education institutions must operate within South Africa’s higher education regulatory system. (more…)
DaVinci can also be understood as a business-focused higher education institution because its qualifications are designed for professionals, managers, leaders and organisations. Its academic model is strongly connected to workplace application, leadership development and innovation.
This makes DaVinci particularly relevant for working professionals who want to study while applying their learning directly in the workplace. Instead of separating theory from practice, DaVinci encourages students to explore real organisational challenges through structured academic inquiry.
Yes. A qualification from The DaVinci Institute is recognised by employers because DaVinci is a registered private higher education institution and its higher education qualifications are accredited and registered within South Africa’s formal higher education framework.
For employers, accreditation matters because it shows that a qualification has gone through the necessary quality assurance processes. It gives employers greater confidence that the qualification is aligned to recognised academic standards and positioned on the National Qualifications Framework.
Why does accreditation matter to employers?
Employers often look at whether a qualification is credible, relevant and applicable to the workplace. Accreditation helps address the credibility question because it confirms that the qualification is formally recognised in the South African higher education system.
However, employer recognition is not only about accreditation. Employers also consider the relevance of the qualification to the role, the level of the qualification, the student’s experience, and the practical value the graduate can bring to the organisation.
This is where DaVinci’s workplace-focused approach becomes important. Many DaVinci students are working professionals who apply their learning to real organisational challenges. This can help bridge the gap between academic knowledge and workplace performance.
What type of employer may value a DaVinci qualification?
DaVinci qualifications may be especially relevant to employers looking for people who can think systemically, lead innovation, manage change and solve complex business problems. This includes organisations in financial services, logistics, manufacturing, public sector institutions, consulting, technology-driven environments and other sectors where transformation and innovation are priorities.
Employers may also value DaVinci qualifications for staff development, leadership pipelines, succession planning and skills development initiatives. Because the learning is connected to workplace application, organisations can benefit from employees who do not only study concepts, but also apply them in practice.
The better question is not whether DaVinci is better than a traditional university, but whether DaVinci is better suited to your personal, professional and academic goals.
Traditional universities and private higher education institutions can both offer valuable learning experiences. The right choice depends on what you want to study, how you prefer to learn, your career stage and the type of academic environment that will help you succeed. (more…)
The main difference between The DaVinci Institute and many other business schools in South Africa lies in its distinctive focus on the integration of technology, innovation, people and systems. (more…)
Studying at a private institution can be worth it if the institution is properly registered, the qualification is accredited, and the learning experience aligns with your goals.
In South Africa, students should not choose a private institution simply because it appears convenient or well marketed. The first question should always be whether the institution and qualification meet the required regulatory standards. Once that is confirmed, students can then consider quality, relevance, support, flexibility and career value. (more…)