Higher Certificate Pass Requirements – All You Need To Know About

Getting a matric is an important achievement for students in South Africa, providing opportunities for further education and employment. Understanding the various matric pass levels, such as the Higher Certificate pass requirements, is crucial.

A National Senior Certificate (NSC) Higher Certificate Pass is one of the three pass levels, along with the Diploma and Bachelor’s Pass. It enables students to pursue a Higher Certificate at technical and vocational schools, suitable for individuals who do not meet university admission criteria but are interested in continuing their education or receiving vocational training.

This article will outline the higher certificate pass requirements, the opportunities it provide, and how it differs from the Diploma and Bachelor passes.

What is a Higher Certificate Pass Requirements?

The pass requirements for higher certificates can be broken down into specific subject achievements. These include:

• Obtaining at least 40% in your Home Language.
• Achieving 40% in two other subjects.
• Passing three additional subjects for the National Senior Certificate with at least 30%.
• Meeting the basic language proficiency requirement (usually English or Afrikaans).

These requirements for higher certificate pass are designed to allow students to continue their education while improving their skills in specific vocational or technical areas. They provide a well-organised route for individuals interested in starting a career or advancing their education without the academic demands of a Diploma or Bachelor’s degree.

What Opportunities Are Available With a Higher Certificate Pass?

While a higher certificate matric pass does not allow entry into university degree programmes, it still provides meaningful educational and career pathways. With these pathways, it will become easier for us to understand the higher certificate pass requirements better. Let us look at some of the options below:

• Higher Certificate Programmes: These programmes are available at numerous universities that specialise in technology, private colleges, and vocational institutions. These concentrate on fields like Business Administration, Information Technology, and Hospitality.
• Vocational Training: With a matric pass with higher certificate, students can apply for courses in sectors like plumbing, electrical work, and other trades, preparing them for specific job roles.
• Bridging Courses: Various schools provide bridging courses for students to enhance their academic credentials, ultimately leading to enrollment in diploma or degree programs.
• Entry-Level Jobs: Entry-level positions in certain industries may be open to students with a higher certificate matric pass, especially in sectors prioritising practical skills over academic qualifications.

What if You Don’t Meet the Higher Certificate Requirements?

If you don’t meet the higher certificate pass requirements, there are other ways to achieve it. Some of the options include:

• Supplementary Exams: The Matric Supplementary Exams allow students to retake subjects where they did not perform well. This can help improve results and meet the pass requirements for higher certificates.
• Matric Rewrite: A second chance is given through matric rewrite programmes, often offered by adult education centres or private institutions.
• Technical and Vocational Training: Without a matric qualification, you can explore technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges, which offer practical, hands-on learning.

Know How to Check Matric Supplementary Results Online Here 

Difference Between Higher Certificate Pass, Diploma Pass, and Bachelor Pass

The table below highlights the key differences between the Higher Certificate Pass, Diploma Pass, and Bachelor Pass, including subject requirements, university eligibility, and career pathways. This comparison clarifies how each passing level impacts your future opportunities and what the higher certificate pass requirements role in that.

Criteria	Higher Certificate Pass	Diploma Pass	Bachelor Pass
Minimum Subjects Passed	6 subjects (40% in Home Language, 40% in 2 subjects, 30% in 3 subjects). Note: One of the Home Languages must be English or Afrikaans to qualify for this certificate	7 subjects (40% in Home Language, 40% in four other High Credit subjects, 40% in 4 subjects, 30% for two other subjects for the National Senior Certificate. For the Senior Certificate (Amended) obtain 30% for one other subject.)	6 subjects (50% for four other Higher Credit subjects, 40% in Home Language, 30% for one other subject for the Senior Certificate (Amended) / Obtain 30% for two other subjects for the National Senior Certificate
University Eligibility	Higher Certificate Programmes	Diploma Programmes	Degree Programmes
Career Options	Vocational Courses, Entry-Level Jobs	Diploma Courses, Entry-Level Careers	Degree Courses, Advanced Career Pathways
APS Score Requirement	Low	Medium	High

Know More About the Diploma Pass Requirements Here! 

What is the APS Score for a Higher Certificate Pass?

The APS (Admission Point Score) is a scoring system used by South African tertiary institutions to assess matric results for entry into further studies. The higher certificate pass requirements include the APS for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) as 15 points and 13 points for the Senior Certificate Amended – SC (A). This result is determined by giving points based on the percentages obtained in your matric subjects, where Home Language and other important subjects have a major impact.

How to Increase Your Chances of Achieving a Higher Certificate Pass?

To improve your chances of meeting the higher certificate pass requirements, consider the following:

• Focus on Core Subjects: Prioritise achieving at least 40% in your Home Language and three other subjects. Passing these subjects is essential to secure your matric pass with a higher certificate.
• Seek Additional Help: If you’re struggling in certain areas, don’t hesitate to seek extra tutoring or attend revision classes. Many schools and online platforms offer support specifically for matric students.
• Regular Practice: Doing past exam papers and staying consistent with your studies can make a significant difference in your performance.

Read about the Bachelor Pass Requirements for more insights! 

Career and Further Study Options with a Higher Certificate Pass

Achieving higher certificate pass requirements opens doors to several educational and professional pathways. These include:

• Further Studies: Enrol in a Higher Certificate programme, such as Business Management, Marketing, or IT. These courses typically last one year and can lead to diplomas or even degrees in some cases.
• Vocational Careers: You can enter into fields like retail, hospitality, or office administration, which offer numerous entry-level positions.
• Workplace Training: Some companies offer on-the-job training for those with a higher certificate pass, enabling them to develop specialised skills for their industry.

Conclusion

Earning a higher certificate matric pass provides valuable opportunities for students who may not qualify for a Diploma or Bachelor’s Pass. With a variety of educational and vocational options available, this pass allows students to pursue further studies or enter the job market with practical skills. Remember, meeting the pass requirements for higher certificate is an achievable goal with dedication and proper planning. For those who don’t meet the criteria initially, supplementary exams or bridging courses offer a second chance.

Regenesys offers higher certificate programmes to its students. To learn more about them, visit our website today. 

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