Thinking of becoming a boilermaker? This career is all about metalwork, welding, and fabrication, so if you enjoy working with your hands, operating heavy machinery, and problem-solving, this could be the perfect path for you.
On this page, we’ve gathered the subjects required to study boilermaking in South Africa. Whether you want to complete an N1-N6 qualification or an Occupational Certificate, we’ve got you covered. We’ve also included links to official courses so you can check them out and apply when you’re ready.
Just a quick tip—Mathematics and Physical Science are essential! If you don’t enjoy technical subjects, you might struggle. But if you love working with tools and building things from scratch, this trade can lead to well-paying jobs in engineering and construction.
List of Subjects Needed to Become a Boilermaker in South Africa
Below you will find the subjects required to become a boilermaker, based on actual courses offered at different colleges:
1. South Cape TVET College – Boilermaking (N1 – N3)
Below are the required subjects at South Cape TVET College for a Boilermaking (N1-N3) qualification, in order to become a boilermaker:
This course focuses on welding, metalwork, and engineering fabrication, preparing students for careers in factories, power stations, refineries, and mines.
Check out the South Cape TVET College course
Admission Requirements:
- N1:
- Grade 9 with a minimum of 50% in Mathematics
- 60% in Numeracy (College Placement Test)
- 50% in Literacy (College Placement Test)
- N2:
- Passed N1 (at least 3 subjects) OR
- Grade 12 with Mathematics & Physical Science
- 60% for Numeracy (College Placement Test)
- 50% for Literacy (College Placement Test)
- N3:
- Passed N2 (at least 3 subjects)
Duration:
- Each level takes 12 weeks (One year for N1-N3).
2. Gauteng College of Engineering and Technology – Boiler Maker Engineering (N1-N6)
Below are the required subjects at Gauteng College of Engineering and Technology for a Boilermaker (N1-N6) qualification, in order to become a boilermaker:
This programme offers practical skills in engineering fabrication and welding, leading to jobs in manufacturing, construction, and mining.
Admission Requirements:
- N1-N3:
- Grade 10 with Mathematics & Physical Science
- N4-N6:
- Grade 12 Certificate with Mathematics & Physical Science OR
- N3 with Engineering Mathematics & Engineering Science
Duration:
- Each level takes 3 months (Trimester system: January, April, and August intakes).
3. Varsity Institute of Science and Technology – Boilermaking & Welding
Below are the required subjects at Varsity Institute of Science and Technology for a Boilermaking & Welding qualification, in order to become a boilermaker:
This course focuses on boiler fabrication, welding, and mechanical skills, preparing students for jobs in construction and heavy engineering industries.
Admission Requirements:
- N1:
- Passed Grade 9 & 10
- N2:
- Passed Grade 10 & 11
- N3:
- Matric Certificate OR N2 Certificate
- English Level 3 (40%)
- Mathematics Level 3 (40%)
- Physical Science Level 3 (40%)
Duration:
- 18 months (including practical work experience).
4. False Bay College – Occupational Certificate: Boilermaker
Below are the required subjects at False Bay College for an Occupational Certificate in Boilermaking, in order to become a boilermaker:
This course is designed for students who want to become qualified boilermakers through an apprenticeship programme.
Check out the False Bay College course
Admission Requirements:
- Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science
5. Rostec College – Boilermaker (N1-N6)
Below are the required subjects at Rostec College for a Boilermaker (N1-N6) qualification, in order to become a boilermaker:
Rostec offers a full N1-N6 qualification, preparing students for apprenticeships and employment in the engineering sector.
Admission Requirements:
- N1:
- Grade 11 with Mathematics (50% or higher)
- N2:
- N1 OR equivalent (with the four appropriate subjects)
- N3:
- N2 OR equivalent (with the four appropriate subjects)
How to Get an Apprenticeship?
- If you get employed as an apprentice, you can enrol to study for N1-N3 certificates while working.
Final Thoughts – Which One Is Easier to Qualify For?
If you’re looking for the easiest entry, South Cape TVET College and Varsity Institute of Science and Technology have the lowest requirements (Grade 9-10).
For the most competitive entry, False Bay College requires Grade 12 with Mathematics & Physical Science, while Rostec requires at least Grade 11 with 50% in Mathematics.
Gauteng College of Engineering and Technology and South Cape TVET College both offer N1-N6 courses, making them great options if you want to study and work towards an apprenticeship.
Comparison Table of Boilermaker Course Requirements
| College | Course Name | Minimum Requirement | Mathematics & Science | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Cape TVET College | Boilermaking (N1-N3) | Grade 9 (N1), Grade 12 (N2) | Required | College Placement Test |
| Gauteng College of Engineering & Tech | Boiler Maker Engineering (N1-N6) | Grade 10 (N1), Grade 12 (N4) | Required | Trimester system (3-month levels) |
| Varsity Institute of Science & Tech | Boilermaking & Welding | Grade 9 (N1), Grade 12 (N3) | Required | Includes practical work |
| False Bay College | Occupational Certificate: Boilermaker | Grade 12 | Required | Apprenticeship-based training |
| Rostec College | Boilermaker (N1-N6) | Grade 11 (N1) | Required | Apprenticeships available |
Final Verdict
- For the easiest entry: South Cape TVET College or Varsity Institute of Science and Technology.
- For the highest qualification: False Bay College (Occupational Certificate).
- For a balance of study & work experience: Rostec (Apprenticeship option).
Boilermaking is a hands-on career that requires technical skills and problem-solving abilities. If you enjoy working with metals, welding, and machinery, this could be a great trade to pursue! 
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