Higher Education
So, while a Higher Certificate pass may not give you direct access to a degree, it still gives you access to further studies in a tertiary institution and keeps the door to a university degree open.
Can I upgrade my matric results to get a Bachelor’ s pass?
Yes, you can improve your results after matric. Learners may rewrite certain subjects through matric exams to improve marks or meet Bachelor’ s pass requirements. You don’ t always need to rewrite all subjects. Many students upgrade only the subjects affecting their APS score. This is a common path for learners who want better study options after matric.
Is every matric certificate NQF Level 4?
Yes. All National Senior Certificates( NSC) are classified as NQF Level 4 in South Africa. This is true whether you have achieved a Higher Certificate pass, Diploma pass, or Bachelor’ s pass. However, while your NQF level stays the same, your pass level determines your study options after matric.
Can I improve my pass level after matric?
Yes, you can. Many learners improve their matric results after school. For example, you can:
• Upgrade from a Higher Certificate pass to a Diploma pass
• Improve marks to meet Bachelor’ s pass requirements
• Increase your APS for better study options
This is a common and accepted pathway in South Africa.
And you don’ t need to rewrite all your subjects. Most learners choose to rewrite only the subjects that affect their pass level or APS. You can rewrite certain subjects through official matric exams to meet higher pass requirements.
The subjects often include:
• Home language( to reach 40 % for your home language)
• Maths or Maths Literacy
• A high-credit subject like Accounting or Life Science
This saves time and helps you focus on what really matters.
What happens if I fail one subject?
Failing one subject does not always mean that you have failed matric. If you still meet the minimum requirements, you may qualify for a lower pass level. If the failed subject affects your pass level, you can:
• Rewrite the subject( as stated above)
• Apply for a Higher Certificate or bridging programme
• Study at a TVET college or private institution
Does Life Orientation count for university admission?
You MUST pass Life Orientation, but it does not count toward your APS. This means that strong marks in Life Orientation cannot make up for low marks in other subjects.
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