Getting your matric results can feel exciting, confusing, and even scary at the same time. You might be wondering what to study next, whether you qualify for university, or which career path is right for you.
This is where the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) comes in. Understanding your NQF level can help you:
- Understand your matric results and career choices.
- Choose the right qualification.
- And plan your future with confidence.
In this guide, we’ll explain the NQF level in simple terms and show you how to use NQF levels for career planning after matric.
What is an NQF level in South Africa?
The National Qualifications Framework (NQF) is a system used in South Africa to organise all qualifications by level. It helps students understand how different certificates, diplomas, and degrees compare to each other.
In simple terms, here’s what NQF levels mean:
- Lower levels = basic education and skills
- Higher levels = advanced qualifications like degrees and doctoral degrees
The system is managed by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), also called the African Qualifications Authority SAQA. The NQF is South Africa’s way of making sure qualifications have clear standards, learning outcomes, and study pathways.
Learn more about NQF levels South Africa here.
What NQF level is matric?
Your National Senior Certificate (matric) is classified as NQF Level 4
The NQF Level 4 means that you have completed school and may meet the basic entry requirement for many forms of higher education.
Other examples at this level include the National Vocational Certificate.
So, if you have matric, you are officially at NQF Level 4 and ready to move into further studies or training.
Does NQF Level 4 qualify me for university?
Yes, but not always automatically.
NQF Level 4 can qualify you for university, but it depends on:
- Your matric marks
- The course you want to study
- The institution’s entry requirements
Some university programmes, like a bachelor’s degree, may require higher marks or specific subjects. If you don’t meet those requirements, you can still follow other study pathways in South Africa, such as a higher certificate or diploma.
Let’s have a more detailed look at how your marks affect your further studies.
How does your NQF level affect your study options?
Your NQF level plays a big role in your study choices.
Here’s how it works:
- NQF Level 4: Matric or National Vocational Certificate. If you would like to study further, you need the following matric passes:
→ You can apply for a Level 5 Higher Certificate if you have a Higher Certificate Pass. → You can apply for a Level 6 Diploma if you have a Diploma Pass.
→ You can apply for a Level 7 Degree if you have a Bachelor’s Degree Pass.
Learn more about how these study passes work.
- Level 5 Higher Certificate:
→ A great starting point if you don’t qualify for a degree yet. - Diploma (Levels 6–7):
→ Prepares you for practical careers and can lead to further study. - Bachelor’s degree (Level 7):
→ Opens doors to professional careers and postgraduate study. - Honours degree / postgraduate diploma (Level 8):
→ Advanced academic progression in South Africa. - Level 9 Master’s degree:
→ Specialised knowledge and leadership roles. - Level 10 Doctoral degree:
→ The highest academic qualification.
This shows how the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) creates clear study pathways in South Africa.
Why is understanding your NQF level important for career planning?
Understanding your NQF level is not just about studying. It’s about your future career.
1. It helps you choose the right qualification
When you know your NQF level, you can choose a qualification that matches your current level. For example, if you are at Level 4 and have a Degree Pass, you will be able to study for a higher certificate, diploma, or degree, depending on what your future job requires.
2. It shows you your academic progression
The NQF system helps you see how to move step-by-step from one qualification to the next. This makes academic progression in SA clearer and less confusing.
3. It supports better career planning after matric
Your NQF level helps you connect your studies to real career options. Instead of guessing what to study, you can make informed decisions based on your goals.
Before choosing a qualification, ask yourself:
- What kind of job do I want?
- Do I prefer practical or academic learning?
- How long do I want to study?
Your answers will help you decide whether a higher certificate, diploma, or bachelor’s degree is the right choice. Your NQF level is the starting point of that journey.
4. It opens alternative pathways
If you didn’t get the marks you hoped for, you still have options. For example, Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can help you access certain programmes based on work experience or skills.
5. It helps you understand higher education
Many students think there’s only one path: matric to university to a degree. But the truth is, there are many certificate and diploma routes that can also lead to great careers.
What career paths are available at each NQF level?
Here’s a simple overview:
- NQF Level 4 (Matric): Entry-level jobs, learnerships, or further study.
- Level 5 Higher Certificate: Assistant roles, technical jobs, or diploma entry.
- Diploma (Levels 6–7): Skilled careers in business, IT, marketing, HR, and more.
- Bachelor’s degree (Level 7): Professional careers like management, education, finance, and entrepreneurship.
- Honours and postgraduate diploma (Level 8): Specialised roles and leadership opportunities.
- Master’s and doctoral degrees (Levels 9–10): Research, academia, and senior professional roles.
FAQ
Can I improve my NQF level after matric?
Yes. After matric (NQF Level 4), you can move up by studying further. For example, you can complete a Level 5 Higher Certificate, then a diploma, and finally a degree. This step-by-step approach is part of the National Qualifications Framework NQF.
What REGENT qualifications are available at NQF Level 5?
REGENT Business School offers NQF levels, including several qualifications at Level 5, such as Higher Certificates in business-related fields. These include fields like accounting, marketing, supply chain management, business management, and more.
These programmes are designed to help students build a strong foundation so they can enter entry-level careers while also preparing them for further study at higher education institutions, such as diplomas and degrees.
Can a higher certificate lead to a diploma or degree?
Yes. A higher certificate or advanced qualification can lead to a diploma or even a bachelor’s degree. This is one of the biggest benefits of the NQF system. It creates flexible study pathways in South Africa.
Pursue a higher certificate, diploma, or degree with REGENT
If you’re unsure about your next step, REGENT Business School offers a range of qualifications across different NQF levels.
Whether you want to start with a higher certificate, move into a diploma, or work towards a degree, there is a pathway that suits your goals. Understanding your NQF level helps you choose the right option and build a future that matches your dreams.
