Higher Education
What are the various pass levels of matric results?
There are three main matric pass levels in South Africa. Each level has distinct subject and mark requirements. They also determine the type of qualification you are allowed to apply for.
Higher Certificate pass
A Higher Certificate pass is the entry-level matric pass. Requirements include:
• 40 % in Home Language
• 30 % in two other subjects
• 30 % in three additional subjects
• That you pass 6 of 7 subjects
This pass allows you to study various Higher Certificate programmes at institutions such as TVETs( Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges or private colleges.
Diploma pass
A Diploma pass allows you to study diploma qualifications. Requirements include:
• 40 % in Home Language
• 40 % in three other subjects
• 30 % in two additional subjects
• That you pass 6 of 7 subjects
This pass level gives you access to diploma studies depending on your APS and the subjects you have passed, such as Life Science or other high-credit subjects.
Bachelor’ s Degree pass
A Bachelor’ s pass is the highest matric pass level. Requirements include:
• 40 % in Home language
• 50 % in four subjects
• 30 % in two additional subject
This pass allows you to apply to a university to achieve a bachelor’ s degree depending on your APS and subject choices.
How the APS works
Universities and colleges use your APS( Admission Point Score) to decide who gets accepted into a course. Even if you meet the correct matric pass criteria, your APS still matters.
Your APS is calculated using your best subjects – usually, excluding life orientation. Each subject earns points based on your final percentage. The higher your marks, the higher your APS.
For example:
• 70 % or more = high points
• 50 – 59 % = medium points
• 30 – 39 % = lower points
Each course has a minimum APS. A Bachelor’ s pass does not guarantee admission if your APS is too low. This is why two learners with the same pass level can different outcomes. Plus, certain faculties in tertiary institutions exact higher marks in particular subjects than others – for instance, if you want to study medicine, chemistry, actuarial science engineering, or mechatronics, among others.
Always check:
• The required subjects for your preferred course of study
• Minimum APS
• Course-specific rules
Note that your APS plays a key role in your study options after matric.
How do subject requirements affect your pass level?
Your pass level not only depends on the marks you achieve, but also on which subjects you’ ve passed. Subjects such as Maths, Life Science, Accounting, and Physical Sciences are considered high-credit subjects.
Still, even if your marks are high, missing the correct and requisite subjects can limit your options. This is why learners with similar marks may qualify for different pass levels and different study paths.
Can you gain entrance to a university with a Higher Certificate Pass?
Yes, you can. Universities, private colleges and TVET colleges offer Higher Certificate( HC) programmes which are often used as a stepping stone. Many students start with an HC, then move on to a diploma, and later apply to study towards a degree at university once accredited. www. futuresa. co. za 49