Education in South Africa is governed by two national departments. The Department of Basic Education (DBE) is responsible for managing primary and secondary education (from Grade R to Grade 12, as well as adult literacy programmes and Early Childhood Development (ECD). The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is responsible for tertiary education including universities and colleges.  

One of the most important aspects of basic education, is the South African Schools Act (No 84 of 1996) which is the law relating to school governing bodies. At the heart of this is the idea of a partnership between all people with an interest in education. Schools will be improved only through the joint efforts of parents, educators, learners, members of their local communities, and various education departments.

In terms of higher education, an important addition to the law has been the introduction of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) which was established in terms of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme Act 56 of 1999.  NSFAS provides financial aid to students who qualify at TVET colleges and public universities.