Receiving your matric results can be exciting — but also confusing. Many learners are unsure what they qualify to study, especially when their results don’t match their expectations.
This guide explains all the study options available in South Africa, based on your matric pass level, so you can choose the right path with confidence.
First: Understand Your Matric Pass Level
Your matric results determine which study paths you qualify for. South Africa has four main pass levels:
- Bachelor’s Pass
- Diploma Pass
- Higher Certificate Pass
- NSC Pass
Each level opens different doors — but all can lead to a successful career.
If You Have a Bachelor’s Pass
A Bachelor’s Pass allows you to study towards degree qualifications at universities.
What you can study:
- Engineering
- Law
- Medicine (with strong marks)
- Education
- Accounting
- Information Technology
- Science degrees
Requirements:
- Minimum subject marks as required by universities
- Admission depends on APS scores
📌 Not all universities accept the same marks — always check institution requirements.
If You Have a Diploma Pass
A Diploma Pass allows you to study diploma qualifications at:
- Universities of Technology
- TVET colleges
- Some universities
Popular diploma courses:
- Public Management
- Human Resource Management
- Information Technology
- Marketing
- Financial Management
- Tourism & Hospitality
Diplomas focus more on practical and workplace-ready skills.
If You Have a Higher Certificate Pass
A Higher Certificate Pass allows entry into:
- Higher certificate programmes
- Some TVET qualifications
- Bridging programmes
Common higher certificate fields:
- Business Administration
- Early Childhood Development
- IT Support
- Office Administration
Higher certificates can later lead to diploma or degree studies.
If You Have an NSC Pass
An NSC pass does not qualify for university studies, but many other options exist.
You can still study:
- TVET college programmes
- SETA learnerships
- Skills programmes
- Apprenticeships
- Short courses
👉 Learn how workplace training works here:
What Is a SETA in South Africa and How Does It Work?
TVET Colleges: A Strong Alternative
TVET colleges offer practical, skills-based training aligned with industry needs.
TVET study fields include:
- Engineering studies
- Electrical & mechanical trades
- Business & management
- Hospitality
- IT & computer studies
Many programmes:
- Accept learners without matric
- Lead to learnerships and apprenticeships
- Improve employability
Studying Through SETA Learnerships
SETA learnerships allow you to study and work at the same time.
Why learnerships are powerful:
- You earn a monthly stipend
- You gain workplace experience
- You receive a nationally recognised qualification
👉 Learn more here:
How SETA Learnerships Work (Step-by-Step Beginner Guide)
Apprenticeships & Artisan Careers
If you enjoy practical work, artisan careers are in high demand.
Popular trades:
- Electrician
- Plumber
- Welder
- Boilermaker
- Automotive mechanic
You can enter these careers through:
- TVET colleges
- Learnerships
- Apprenticeships
Matric maths and science help, but full matric is not always required.
What If Your Results Are Lower Than Expected?
If your results limit your options:
- Consider rewriting subjects
- Start with a higher certificate
- Enrol in skills programmes
- Gain work experience through learnerships
👉 For full guidance, read:
What Can I Do If I Fail Matric?
How to Choose the Right Study Path
Ask yourself:
- What subjects did I enjoy?
- Do I prefer theory or practical work?
- Do I want to earn while studying?
- How soon do I want to work?
There is no “one-size-fits-all” path.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I go to university with a diploma pass?
No, but you can later progress from a diploma to a degree.
2. Are TVET qualifications recognised in South Africa?
Yes. TVET colleges are government-funded and accredited.
3. Can I study without matric?
Yes. Many TVET and SETA programmes accept Grade 10 or 11.
4. Are learnerships better than university?
They are different. Learnerships focus on workplace skills, while universities focus on theory.
5. Can I change my career path later?
Yes. Many people change careers after gaining experience.
Final Advice
Your matric results do not limit your future — they simply guide your starting point. With the right information and planning, you can build a successful career through multiple pathways.
