Adult Matric By Distance Learning

Distance learning is a form of study that allows students to study from home. It is also known as home study, online or correspondence study and has been a popular choice for many students over the years. The COVID 19 pandemic highlighted the need for distance learning institutions, such as Matric College, in South Africa and across the world.

At Matric College, we are proud to offer Adult Matric by distance learning as there are many benefits to our students. Here are just a few of these benefits:

  • You can do an Adult Matric course via distance learning
  • You can apply as early as 19 years old to do an Adult Matric Course
  • You can write your Adult Matric exams when you are 21 or older
  • There are many online tools available to use including past papers
  • Our Matric College tutors are there to help you when you need it
  • As a registered Matric College student, you have access to our Telegram and Facebook study groups
adult matric by distance learning

What Is Distance Learning?

  • Distance learning is studying that is not administered in a traditional contact classroom
  • Distance learning can take place wherever you are based with the use of online tools to access resources like study materials and past papers
  • Distance learning entails receiving coursework and study materials to complete tasks and assignments for submission

The video below explains why distance learning is the best option for you if you are unable to study in the traditional way by attending classes.

What Are Distance Learning Courses?

Distance learning courses are courses you are able to complete from the comfort of your own home. Not all courses are offered via distance learning, but the courses that are, are practical, skills driven and help people to improve their lives.

Yes, distance learning courses are good. Distance learning offers the same qualification you would achieve in a course offered with contact learning.

For example, Adult Matric is a distance learning programme, offered by Matric College, that awards the student the same Senior Certificate (Amended) as students who study through in-contact classes.

Yes, there is immense value in distance learning, especially in South Africa. Distance learning provides a cost-effective alternative to otherwise costly tuition.

Students are also getting jobs to meet their financial obligations and distance learning gives you more freedom to manage both your professional and academic careers.

Yes, distance learning courses are recognised. You are able to study the Adult Matric Course with Matric College and then register with the Department of Basic Education to write your final Adult Matric exams. Once you pass your final exams, you will receive a Senior Certificate (Amended) awarded by Umalusi.

Yes, Distance Learning Certificates are Valid. The Adult Matric / Senior Certificate (Amended) and the National Senior Certificate are both awarded by Umalusi and are recognised on the NQF (National Qualifications Framework) level 4 that is compliant with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

Please note that the Adult Matric Course offered by Matric College does not have to be accredited as you study the coursework via distance learning and register to write your Adult Matric exams with the Department of Basic Education. Once you have passed your exams, you will receive a valid Adult Matric / Senior Certificate (Amended).

These are the top 5 examples of distance learning:

  • Asynchronous distance learning
  • Online distance learning
  • Paced distance learning
  • Self-paced distance learning
  • Synchronous distance learning
  • Blended distance learning

Asynchronous Distance Learning

Asynchronous distance learning is when students learn on their own and do not attend group sessions/classes. There are clear deadlines for when tasks or assignments are to be submitted. Asynchronous distance learning uses online tools like Email, audio lessons, written content and pre-recorded video lessons.

Online Distance Learning

Online distance learning is when there are no fixed dates on when to submit tasks or assignments as long as it is submitted before the course is completed. There is a fixed duration of time to complete the course with online support from tutors. Online distance learning uses live lectures, online discussion forums and Email tools.

Paced Distance Learning

Paced distance learning is when all the students are given the same time frame to complete a course with everyone having the same due dates for assignment submissions. Paced distance learning uses Email correspondence, live lectures and written content tools.

Self-paced Distance Learning

Self-paced distance learning is when students have the freedom to study at their own pace. Each student will complete the course in their own time which is based on ability, availability and engagement with their studies.

Synchronous Distance Learning

Synchronous distance learning is when both the student and the teacher interact with each other at the same time but in different locations. Students participate in learning activities via tools like live lectures, group chats and online discussion forums.

Blended Distance Learning

Matric College is a blended distance learning college and has used methods from all of the examples of distance learning.

We have learned from asynchronous distance learning the art of email communication and written content. Through email communication, you can find out all about the courses we offer and submit assignments once you are a student. Our coursework and study materials are expertly written to give you the best distance learning experience.

Technological advancements have allowed us to tap into online distance learning to incorporate smartphones and apps like Facebook and WhatsApp into distance learning. We have made registration easy and accessible through these channels and have distance learning students partake in discussions on our WhatsApp and Facebook study groups.

The courses Matric College offers have a flexible course duration and are not fixed as we believe self-paced distance learning is beneficial for students who are working and studying at the same time. For example, you can complete the Adult Matric course in 1 year to 3 years depending on how fast you work through the coursework.

Our example of synchronous distance learning is the online exam preparation we offer. This type of learning is when there are interactions between lecturers/tutors and students. Our skilled tutors interact with our distance learning students via the online tools we have put in place to offer these exam preparation workshops.

Can I Do Distance Learning?

Yes, you can do distance learning. Distance learning makes education more accessible to everyone. Ask yourself the following yes/no questions and that should help you decide if you can do distance learning.

QuestionYes/No
Does Distance Learning appeal to you?Yes/No
Can you be an accountable student and be dedicated to learning on your own?Yes/No
Do you have a smartphone or laptop?Yes/No
Do you live far from a university or college?Yes/No
Would you like to study while you work?Yes/No
Are you independent and enjoy working alone?Yes/No

If you have answered yes to three or more of the questions then you can consider doing distance learning.

Can I Do My Matric Online?

Yes, at Matric College we use an array of online tools to help you do your Matric as an Adult via distance learning. From registration to preparing you for the exams, we offer support using online methods like online registration forms and Telegram and Facebook study groups. You can use these tools to answer any questions you have and to seek assistance with the coursework.

Your registration for the Adult Matric exams can be done online but you will have to write your exams in person at dedicated examination centres across the country.

Distance Learning Colleges Where You Can Study Adult Matric

At Matric College we make learning easy. We believe education should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their circumstances. With this belief, we offer improved education to get you started by achieving your matric at the age of 21 or older.

We are here to help you take the first step towards a brighter future.

  • You can study at home
  • We offer individual help
  • We have caring staff
  • We are easy to connect with

You Can Study From Home

At Matric College we offer an improved education, even in the comfort of your own home! As we are a distance learning institution, we courier your study materials to your door so that you can study from home. Studying from home has its advantages like flexible study times and you are not bound to class times as distance learning does not offer classes.

We Offer Individual Help

As a distance learning student, you are studying alone and there are times when you need help. We have skilled tutors, course experts and caring staff to assist you in your studies so that you have the best experience in your studies. And as an individual who may have different concerns from the other students, we are able to focus on you and your concerns alone.

We Have Caring Staff

Our staff is supportive in your journey to academic success. We love working with students and motivating them to get through their studies. Our motto is “It Is Never Too Late”, with this in mind we have created a caring environment for our students to grow in and empower them to reach their goals.

We Are Easy To Connect With

Communication has grown and is constantly evolving. There are various ways you can connect with us as we offer landline, mobile and social media communication. You can phone us or send us a message and there is always someone on the other end to attend to you. We have made use of Telegram and Facebook to bring our distance learning students together by creating study groups. We also offer callback requests on our Matric College website where you can request a callback from a course expert, tutor and even the principal of the college.

We make learning easy

How Does Distance Learning Studies Work At Matric College?

At Matric College we have created a 7 step guide to get your distance learning studies started with us.

6 Step Guide

Step 1: To register for the Adult Matric course at Matric College, you can do it online or over the phone. To register over the phone, you can contact us on our landline number or send us a WhatsApp message. For online registration, complete the “Apply Here” form and our course experts will get back to you.

Step 2: Once your registration is complete, we will send your course materials via courier. You will not be charged extra for study materials as it is already included in the college fees.

Step 3: The course materials will help you to study the coursework so that you are prepared to do assignments for submission.

Step 4: You will receive comprehensive feedback on your submitted assignments. Should you require additional tutoring you can contact them online weekdays 8 am – 5 pm.

Distance Learning Made Easy

Step 5: You can seek assistance from other students as you will be invited into WhatsApp and Facebook study groups where you can discuss the coursework.

Step 6: Matric College will offer you assistance when it comes to registering for your Adult Matric exams with the Department of Basic Education.

Adult Matric

Adult Matric is a course offered by Matric College for adults 21 years and older to achieve their Senior Certificate (Amended). This course is also offered in Afrikaans. Achieving your Matric Certificate allows you to apply for entry-level jobs or to Higher Education depending on the entry requirements.

Adult Matric Course General Information

Course NameSenior Certificate (Amended)
Programme TypeNational Qualification
Award TypeSenior Certificate (Amended)
Issued and Accredited ByUmalusi
Course Duration12 to 36 months (recommend)

Generally, having a Matric Certificate opens up a lot of doors for you. As mentioned above, having your Matric allows you to:

  • Apply for entry-level employment opportunities
  • Access to study opportunities
  • Do learnerships

Entry-level Employment Opportunities

With a Matric Certificate, you can apply for entry-level jobs. Most entry-level jobs require you to have a Matric Certificate as a minimum application requirement. With your Matric Certificate, you can enter employment and work yourself up the corporate ladder through study opportunities and learnerships. This will allow you to earn and learn at the same time.

Study Opportunities

There are many study opportunities for students who have a matric certificate. Universities and further education institutions have different entrance requirements for the courses they offer and they often include having passed Matric with a certain percentage in different subjects. Obtaining your matric, and passing well will give you a chance to apply for a bachelor’s Degree, Diploma courses and National Qualifications. Alternatively, you can gain skills through learnerships.

Learnerships

Learnerships are skills focused that you can use in the workplace. Entry requirements for certain learnerships require you to have a Matric certificate to do them. With your Matric Certificate, you can apply for learnerships if you are not ready to study a course or qualification. Learnerships look good on your CV as it shows you have the skills to do the jobs.

You can achieve the same Certificate types as the National Senior Certificate. Your Adult Matric Certificate is called a Senior Certificate (Amended). Here are the passes you can achieve:

  • Bachelors Pass
  • Diploma Pass
  • Higher Certificate Pass
  • Senior Certificate (Amended) Pass


Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for the Adult Matric course at Matric College:

  • You must be 21 or older when you write the Adult Matric exams. You can apply as early as 19 years of age for this course
  • You can read, write and understand English or Afrikaans
  • You passed Grade 9 and have proof of certificate or report OR
  • You passed a Grade 9 equivalent course (ie. an ABET Certificate) that has two official language subjects.


How To Apply/Register

As mentioned in our 7 step guide above, you can apply by giving us a call or sending us a message on our:

Landline number: 021 838 8280

WhatsApp number: 072 799 4195

You can apply online by following these steps:

Step 1: To apply for the Adult Matric Course visit our Matric College site.

Step 2: Click “Apply Now”

Apply Now

Step 3:
Complete the registration form, select your options from the questions asked and hit “Send“.

Registration Form

Step 4: Our course experts will contact you to complete your registration.


Matriek Kollege het sy eie Afrikaans webwerf waar jy vir die Volwasse Matriekkursus kan aansoek doen:

Stap 1: Vul die vorm en druk “Stuur

Matriek - Registration Form

Stap 2: Ons Kursuskundiges sal jou kontak om jou registrasie te voltooi.

What Do I Get From The College?

When you choose Matric College as your distance learning institution, we will offer improved education and constant support. This is what you can expect from us:

  • All your study materials are included in your fees
    • We kept distance learning in mind when developing the study materials to give you the best experience
  • You will have access to our library of course resources to prepare you for the exams
  • We have Telegram and Facebook study groups so you can interact with fellow students and our skilled tutors to help you with any questions you may have
  • We have academic support you can access weekdays from 8 am- 5 pm
  • Our tutors will offer you detailed feedback and offer you extra tutoring for areas you struggle with
  • We check in with you to make sure you remain motivated in your studies
  • We help you create study schedules to make sure you stay on track
  • We offer help with exam registration
  • We give you enough time to complete your Adult Matric with Matric College. If you paid your fees in full and require additional study time, we will extend your course at no extra cost.

What Does The College Require From Me?

When studying through distance learning, we require you to be disciplined and dedicate yourself to your studies by:

  • Creating a study schedule
  • Complete all the coursework
  • Asking questions
  • Getting involved in your studies
  • Using exam preparation tools

Make Use Of Your Study Schedule

At Matric College we offer to help you set up a study schedule. By following the study schedule you will make sure you cover all the coursework in portions to make the studying digestible. You will have enough time when the exams come around to revise the work you studied.

Complete All Your Course Work

The Adult Matric course has assignments that should be completed and submitted. Our skilled tutors are there to measure your progress and offer additional support if they find you struggling.

Ask If You Do Not Understand

We have WhatsApp and Facebook study groups for you to pose questions to fellow students and tutors. Peer studying is beneficial and we can all learn from each other.

Get Involved In Your Studies

Take the initiative to ask questions in the study groups or contact us for academic support as it will allow you to actively participate in your studies and learn how to manage them.

Use The Exam Preparation Tools

Matric College has a library of exam preparation materials like past exam papers that you can use. Recreate mock exams with fellow students and mark them with the memos we provide so that you can see how exam questions are asked and the correct way to answer them.

What Can I Do If Things Go Wrong

At Matric College we take pride in offering you the best service and if you feel like you need extra help, you can get in touch with our principal and complete the “red alert” form so that he can get in touch with you and find the best way to assist you.

Red Alert Form

Filling in the Red Alert Form is easy and will guarantee you assistance in areas of concern for your studies.

Complete the form in detail as shown below and click “Submit“.

Red Alert Form

How Many Subjects Do I Need to Pass Adult Matric?

The pass requirements for the Adult Matric Course at Matric College:

  • You need to pass at least 5 out of 6 subjects
    • 40% in three subjects, one of which must be a Home Language subject
    • 30% in two subjects, one of which must be a First Additional Language subject
    • Score at least 20% in the sixth subject
  • You need to register for a minimum of six subjects, 3 compulsory and 3 elective subjects
  • Two of the subjects must be official languages, a Home Language and a First Additional Language Subject
  • You must choose one Mathematics subject

Adult Matric Course Subjects

Compulsory Subjects

  • English Home Language
  • English First Additional Language
  • Afrikaans Huistaal
  • Afrikaans Eerste Addisionele Taal
  • isiZulu Home Language
  • isiXhosa Home Language
  • isiNdebele Home Language
  • Sepedi Home Language
  • Xitsonga Home Language
  • Tshivenda Home Language
  • Sesotho Home Language
  • Siswati Home Language
  • Setswana Home Language
  • Mathematics/ Wiskunde
  • Mathematical Literacy/Wiskundige Geletterdheid

Elective Subjects

  • Physical Sciences/ Fisiese Wetenskap
  • Life Sciences/ Lewenswetenskappe
  • Agricultural Sciences/ Landbouwetenskap
  • Business Studies/ Besigheidstudies
  • Economics/ Ekonomie
  • Accounting/ Rekeningkunde
  • History/ Geskiedenis
  • Geography/ Geografie
  • Religious Studies/ Religious Studies

How Do I Register For My Adult Matric Exams?

Registering for your Adult Matric exams is easy and at Matric College, we help you every step of the way to ensure you register correctly. The Department of Basic Education allows Adults to register from October/November to January in the new year. Complete a form and submit supporting documents for approval. Here is how you can register online:

Online Exam Registration

Step 1: Visit the governments’ e-Services site.

Step 2: click on the “Sign up/Register” option and create an account.

Step 3: Follow the prompts and fill in your personal details, click “Next” and do the same for your contact, address and password details. Remember to spell correctly as it has to correlate with the identification document you have. The progress bar indicates how far your account registration is coming along.

Matric Online Registration Step 4

Step 4: Once your account is successfully created you will be redirected to the home page where you can now log in.

Matric Online Registration Step 9

Step 5: After you log in, click on the e-Services tab and select “Matric Services“.

Matric Online Registration Step 10c

Step 6: Once you enter the “Matric Services“, the government will verify it is you by sending you a One-Time-Pin (OTP).

Step 7: After the verification, you will be taken to the e-Registration for Grade 12 Senior Certificate (Amended) page where you will complete the Identification Information and then select “Yes” to accept the conditions.

Online Matric Registration Step 13a

Step 8: On the next page you will complete the “Qualification Criteria“. If you wrote matric exams in the past, you will complete the “Registration History“. Continue to complete the “Subject Choices and Centre Info“.

Matric Online Registration Step 14

Once you have completed the declaration you have successfully registered to write the Adult Matric exams. You will receive a message of confirmation with all the details for the exam.

Documents I Will Need

One of the tabs on the e-Registration page is an option to upload the required documents. This is where you will upload the supporting documents for your exam registration.

The documents you will need:

  • Certified copy of your ID or birth certificate. Non-South African citizens will upload a certified copy of their passport.
  • Repeat candidates must include a copy of their previous highest qualification
  • Examination numbers of previous Grade 12 or equivalent exams

Can I Check My Adult Matric Results Online?

Yes you can check your adult Matric results online by going onto the Department of Basic Education (DBE) website, SMS and USSD

This is how you can get your adult Matric results on the DBE website:

  • Visit the Department of Basic Education website
  • Enter your examination number
  • Add your personal information
  • Hit the search button and your results will appear.

This is how you can get your adult Matric results through SMS:

  • On your mobile/smartphone, create a new SMS
  • Enter just your examination number
  • Send the SMS to 45856
  • Your adult Matric results will automatically be sent to you when they are made available.

Standard SMS rates apply

This is how you can check your adult Matric results through USSD:

  • On your mobile/smartphone, dial *120*35658#
  • Follow the prompt
  • Answer the questions and verify your ID number
  • Your adult Matric results will appear on your phone

Is Distance Learning Harder Than Contact Learning

No, distance learning is not harder than contact learning. The study materials you receive as a distance learner are compiled in detail to give you as much information as possible that you would get in a classroom. Having all the information in study guides helps you understand the coursework and you can always go back to read it again.

There are many differences between distance learning and contact learning. Adult Matric courses are available through both mediums and yield the same outcome: a Senior Certificate (Amended). The choice between the two is also dependent on the student and their learning style and ability. Here are the differences:

Contact Learning Adult Matric CourseDistance Learning Adult Matric Course
  • You have to attend classes at designated sites along with other students taking the course
  • You have to buy your own study material
  • You will have lecturers and can ask them questions relating to the coursework
  • You can do this course as a full time or part-time student but you have to attend classes

There are many perks of studying the Adult Matric distance learning course at Matric College that is equally different to on-site Adult Matric courses.

  • You study from home
  • Your study material is already included in your course fees.
  • Your study material is couriered to your doorstep.
  • You study by yourself and have access to course experts and skilled tutors to assist you.
  • You can work and study full time

Yes, distance learning is as effective as learning in school. Distance learning uses online tools to its strengths by having an array of online services that support distance learning. Online resources and Telegram study groups connect you with other distance learning students where you can exchange information.

These are all instant solutions that are solved in the digital era we find ourselves in. Studying has become accessible and collaboration is just as evident online as it is in classrooms.

Yes, online learning and distance learning are the same. Both distance learning and online learning use technological/online tools to administer the learning. The major differences are the classes you will have to attend studying an online course.

Distance learning does not offer classes at all so there are no obligations to attend a class. You are supplied with coursework and study materials that you study. The study materials are helpful and carefully written to give you the best understanding of the work.

Distance learning and online learning is often used interchangeably but there are three elements that set them apart from each other. They are:

  • Location
  • Interaction
  • Intention

Location

Distance learning happens in different locations. The course leader compiles study guides and coursework material that includes tasks for students to complete once they receive the materials. Online learning is where the student and teacher meet in a digital space and work is assigned for submission.

Interaction

Distance learning has no in-person interaction as all the instructions are set out in the study materials. Online learning relies on interaction, even online, so that instructions can be relayed.

Intention

The intention of teaching strategy is different between distance learning and online learning. Distance learning has a self-taught teaching strategy by providing all the information so that you may learn and understand the work whereas online learning uses a blend of teaching strategies taken from contact learning.

Why Choose Distance Learning

There are many reasons why you should choose distance learning. Amongst those reasons are:

  • You will save money
  • You can study from home
  • You set your own pace
  • You can study while you work

Save Money

The tuition for studying is always a deciding factor. In South Africa, study fees are usually the deciding factor if it is possible to study or not. There are many missed opportunities individuals face due to their financial situation.

Distance learning is a cost-saving method of studying. There are no contact lessons so there are no expenses to pay for a lecturer or class location. As there are no extra expenses you would find with contact learning, distance learning is offered at a fraction of the cost.

Study From Home

There are no classes when studying through distance learning. All your studies take place in the comfort of your home. You can set up a dedicated study space that has all the materials you need for studying.

Set Your Own Pace

When studying through distance learning you have to be disciplined and dedicated to your studies. To pace yourself, create a study schedule that you are able to follow and learn portions of the coursework in a manageable time that does not overwhelm you.

Study While You Work

A great benefit of distance learning is that you are able to have a job while you are studying. It could be a part-time job that takes a certain amount of your time while you are able to dedicate the rest of your time to studying. You will be able to show your employer, and yourself, that you are able to take on responsibilities and follow through on them.

Pros And Cons Of Distance Learning

Distance Learning ProsDistance Learning Cons
  • You have flexibility in studying times
  • Distance learning is cost-effective
  • You can study and work at the same time
  • You will learn self-discipline and time management
  • You will learn technological skills
  • You are able to do your Adult Matric Course on your smartphone from studying the coursework to submitting your assignments. Your exams are written in person
  • Your study materials are meticulously compiled to give you the best understanding of the work even though you are teaching yourself
  • Students with social anxiety can avoid interacting with other students
  • Certain students learn better by themselves
  • Distance learning gives you time to study at your own pace with no pressures of lecture times
  • Distance learning relies on online tools for assignment submissions. You can experience technical difficulties like poor or no internet connection
  • There is a misconception about the quality of education distance learning students face
  • Being overwhelmed by the study materials. Distance learning students receive their study materials in one pack and it can be daunting if you do not have a study schedule to manage to study the coursework.
  • Student accountability. Being disciplined is a skill that takes time to work on and falling into procrastination is easy if you are not taking accountability as a student.

People Also Ask

Currently, in South Africa, there are different ways for you to receive a Matric Certificate, so it is not limited to just 1 attempt in Grade 12 in high school. Here are the different ways you can get a matric certificate: 

  • National Senior Certificate: This certificate is usually achieved by high school students in Grade 12 and is limited to being achieved by people under 21.
  • Senior Certificate (Amended): This certificate is specifically made for adults aged 21 and over, who don’t have a matric certificate. It can be received through the Department of Education or Distance learning courses like the Adult Matric course.
  • Matric Upgrade: While the certificate received is the Senior Certificate (Amended), this is a course for people who already have attempted to get their Matric certificate. It is for students who either failed their first attempt or, passed but wants to improve their marks.

A replacement certificate from the Department of Education costs R164, and it takes between 4 and 6 weeks to receive it.

However, you can receive your statement of results immediately for R57 and can be used similarly to the certificate for 12 months. Here is what you will need to obtain a replacement certificate:

  • An affidavit explaining the reason for the replacement certificate
  • Your ID and a certified copy
  • The original certificate (if damaged), if it is lost then this is not applicable
NOTE: The prices listed here are valid from the 1st of April 2023 till the 31st of March 2024 and are subject to change.


I couldn’t find a third people also ask for this section, I was lucky with the 2 above since they weren’t really featured on the page.

Author: Mohamed S. Ajmoodien
Editor: Amy Venter
Date Published: March 30, 2022