What is a Higher Certificate? An Essential Guide to South African Qualifications

The South African education system has been designed to offer a tiered learning experience. This means that students can enrol for higher education programmes with qualifications that match their aptitude.

A higher certificate qualification serves as a bridge between high school and an undergraduate degree in South Africa. It is shorter than diplomas and degree programmes and focuses on a specific field.

In this article we will cover what is a higher certificate, eligibility criteria for higher certificate programmes, and the qualifications students earn.

What Is a Higher Certificate For?

A higher certificate is an accredited higher education programme in South Africa targeted at students who receive a higher certificate pass during the matric exams. When we define what is a higher certificate, it serves as an advanced qualification that can be used to enter the workforce. 

Alternatively, students can apply for an undergraduate programme in a relevant field with the higher certificate qualification. This allows students who receive less than a Bachelor’s Pass in the matric exams to complete a professional degree.

We have covered what is a higher certificate, these are some of the benefits students gain after completing the qualification. 

• Higher earning potential
• Recognised by employers
• Stepping stone towards an undergraduate degree
• Practical skills

What is the Difference Between Higher Certificate, Diploma, and Degree?

The higher certificate, diploma, and degree qualifications are present in the higher education system to help ease students’ learning process. The higher education programme students can apply for depends on their pass level on their National Senior Certificate (NSC) or matric exams. 

A student who receives a Bachelor Pass can apply to undergraduate programmes. Those who receive a Diploma Pass can apply to diploma programmes. When we determine what is a higher certificate is for, it is for students who receive a Higher Certificate or Diploma Pass in their matric exams.

Universities and institutes might expect students to match additional criteria to be eligible for admission in addition to the matric pass level. 

The table below shows the difference between higher certificate, diploma, and degree programmes in South Africa.

Read more on What is APS Score

What is the Higher Certificate NQF Level?

The National Qualifications Framework (NQF) are qualifications that correspond to a student’s level of education. It consists of 10 levels with level 1 awarded to students who complete Grade 9 and level 10 for students who complete the doctorate. 

They are in place to help employers determine the level of understanding and practical skills an individual has acquired. When we discuss, what is a higher certificate NQF level on this scale, it scores a level 5. 

Certain entry-level jobs in various industries only require candidates to have achieved NQF Level 5 qualifications to be eligible for consideration. These can be receptionist, assistant, front desk, or co-ordinator positions. 

NQF levels also help students gauge their progress on the South African educational framework. They can help them determine which further programmes they are eligible for after completing a higher certificate qualification.

The table below breaks down the various NQF levels, making it easier to compare them with other qualifications.

What are the Higher Certificate Requirements in South Africa?

To be eligible to study for a higher certificate course at university, students must achieve a minimum of higher certificate or diploma pass during their matric exams. However, certain institutes might have additional requirements that students must meet before being considered for admission.

When we examine what is a higher certificate, we understand that it is a programme designed for students who have yet to grasp the level of understanding required for undergraduate or diploma courses. While higher certificate courses help to clear concepts and build on existing knowledge, they might also have some prerequisites required for admission.

These can be general admission or course-wise requirements. These are in place to ensure that students can match the learning level expected of them at the higher certificate level.

Examples of Admission Criteria

• A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Diploma or Certificate pass
• A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 30% in the language of teaching
• Senior Certificate (SC) with at least an F symbol on HG or an E symbol on SG in the language of teaching
• National Certificate (Vocational) with at least 40% in the language of teaching

Examples of Subject Prerequisites

• Computer Literacy
• Mathematical competency
• Proficiency in English

What are the Best Higher Certificate Courses in South Africa?

When we define what is a higher certificate, we understand that it acts as a bridging course. Furthermore, the learning gained from this qualification can be used to seek employment or gain a higher education qualification.

Since this is a bridge or a gap course, higher certificate courses are available in several in-demand fields, such as finance, tourism, and business. 

Regenesys offers higher certificate courses in multiple fields, which can be completed offline at the main campus or online. Industry experts teach these courses and offer students a collaborative and interactive environment where they can prosper. 

These are some standard higher certificate courses offered in South Africa.

Conclusion

A Higher certificate at the university level refers to programmes curated for students who have received a certificate or diploma pass on their matric exams. These award students an NQF Level 5 qualification, allowing them to enter the workforce or apply for a diploma or undergraduate programme.

These accredited programmes are usually one year and help students gain basic knowledge and skills in a particular field. 

If you have received a certificate pass in the matric exams, check out Regenesys for the various Higher Certificate programmes we offer in business, finance, and public management. 

FAQs on What is a Higher Certificate