Adult Matric: What You Need To Know

Adult Matric is a course for students that have not completed Matric in High School. If you are 21 and older, apply. Some students apply at 19 and write at 21.

What you need to know about Adult Matric is that it is a course offered at Matric College. The course is available for adults who do not have Matric. Through this course, they have a chance to receive a Matric Certificate that Umalusi issues. 

These are the requirements of the Adult Matric course: 

  • You passed Grade 9 and have proof of your report OR
  • You completed a Grade 9 Equivalent course (i.e. an ABET Certificate) that included two official language subjects
  • You are 21 or older when you write your exams
  • You can apply as early as the age of 19 and start studying
  • You can read, write and understand English or Afrikaans 
  • You are comfortable to study via distance learning

What Is The Difference Between Matric And Adult Matric?

Both qualifications are considered the same, even though there are some slight differences. The main difference between these two options is the age the students matriculate. While Adult Matric is for students older than 21, it is a more convenient option, than traditional Matric. 

Here is a table that will compare the differences between the two options:

MatricAdult Matric
Available in high schoolAvailable in colleges/distance learning
You can study if you are younger than 21You can study if you are 21 or older
Need a Grade 11 Certificate to studyNeed a Grade 9 or Equivalent Qualification to study
The Certificate you earn is referred to as a National Senior CertificateThe Certificate you earn is referred to as a Senior Certificate (Amended)
Pass mark is based on School-based assessments and final examsPass mark is based on the final examination only
You must pass six subjects to completeYou must pass five subjects to pass

Can I Write My Matric At Home?

No, you can not write your Matric at home, but rather at exam centres. While you can complete all the theoretical components of Matric at home, your exams will take place at registered exam centres. We offer our Adult Matric course through distance learning so that it is accessible to different students. This is to provide you with a convenient alternative to completing your Matric. 

This means you can study from home, and stay in contact with peers and tutors. It allows you to learn without any kind of pressure. You do things on your own time and enjoy studying a little more.

Here is how the process works:

  • You register with us and register at the DBE for your exams
  • Receive your study materials which include any assignments
  • Gain access to resources like study groups, discussion forums, and exam preparation groups 
  • Complete assignments and receive feedback 
  • Once you are completed with the curriculum, you can write your exams
  • After you have completed your exams successfully, you will receive a certificate awarded by Umalusi

Can Adult Matric Be Online?

Yes, you can study Adult Matric online. This is possible through Matric College. We are a distance-learning college that also uses online resources. When you study from home, you include online tools such as the following: 

What Do I Need For Distance Learning?

Distance learning can not only provide a more convenient way to study, but it is also more affordable. Unlike traditional learning, where a set payment plan and duration are decided on. Distance learning breaks the norm by arranging for unique payment options as well as manageable durations. 

Outside its affordability and the mode of study, there are some things to consider when completing the perfect home setup:

  • Devices
  • Internet connectivity
  • Study Plans

Devices

With distance learning, you will only need a few devices. Most of which will be available at libraries or internet cafés. That being said, at most, studying at Matric College will only require you to have a means to stay in contact with your tutors and peers. 

We ensure that your materials are delivered to you, to prevent overspending on data charges. You will be able to ask questions and discuss topics in our discussion groups. Your assignments will need to be emailed, and this can be done in any place that has a scanner.

With us, you would not have to spend on webcams, internet packages, desktop computers or expensive software. As long, as you continue to communicate and receive updates, you will be well on your way to completing Matric.

Internet Connectivity

Although we are a distance-learning college, we want our students to have equal access and opportunity to their study materials. Rather than focusing everything online, we make provision for tangible textbooks.

This will give students the chance to complete their assignments and tasks without worrying about internet connectivity.  Even so, you will need the internet to stay updated and interact with your lecturers and peers. You could also use it to find helpful tips for studying better from many of our articles.  

Study Plans

With distance learning comes a responsibility that does not go unseen. You are responsible for the time you spend on your studies. This does become convenient if you are a busy individual, and need to handle a job or family responsibilities.

A study plan will be ideal to track your progress and amend your time allocated to each subject. Here is how you could separate your time accordingly:

DayDateTimeSuggestionNotes
Monday26 April09:00 -10:00
10:15-11:30

  Break

12:00-13:00
13:15-14:00

     Break

14:15-15:30
15: 35-16:3

   END

  • Read 5 – 10 pages from each subject
  • Summarise important information
  • Highlight keywords
  • Create mind map

Remember to prepare a revision test for next Monday!

Aim for 80%!

Tuesday   
Wednesday   
Thursday   
Friday   
Saturday   
Sunday   

Your timetable should be unique to your situation. Our example would be a simple study plan for a full-time student. If you cannot commit this much time to your studies, you should arrange the time you study accordingly.

Remember, a little goes a long way! Studying every day, whether it is 2 pages or 4 pages, will avoid burnout later on. If you need help with figuring out which option to choose from, our course experts are great at assessing your needs and goals.

How Long Does An Adult Matric Course Take?

It takes one to three years to complete the Adult Matric course. You have the choice of choosing how long you want to study the course. However, we propose that you study the course for three years.

Although this is a recommendation, individual cases may differ. Some students understand information much faster than others. Other people work full-time and do not have enough time to study. This way, they can choose to complete the course in one or two years. 

There are six subjects in the Adult Matric course. You can divide these subjects and study them according to these examples: 

  • One year – you study the six subjects altogether 
  • Two years – you study three subjects in the first year and the other three in the following year 
  • Three years – you study two subjects in the first year and then study two subjects in the second year. You study the last two subjects in the final year.  
How Long Does It Take To Do Adult Matric

Can I Pass Adult Matric With 5 Subjects?

Yes, you can pass the Adult Matric course with just five (5) subjects. There are six (6) subjects in total. Even though you only have to pass five to complete the course. It would be much better to pass all 6 subjects. This will help you when you apply to university. Since you passed every subject, your chances of getting admitted would be higher.  

Universities sometimes use subject marks as requirements. For example, they may require that you have 60% for Mathematics to study a Degree course in Medicine. This is why it is important to ensure that you pass all your subjects with good marks.

What Are The Compulsory Subjects?

Compulsory subjects are those that need to be studied by all students doing the course. They cannot be changed for other subjects. The subjects that are compulsory in the Adult Matric course are the following:

Compulsory Subjects

You must choose three (3) of these 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

You must choose three (3) 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

Can I Change My Subjects After Matric?

It depends on whether you qualify for a certain course we offer. If you have completed but wish to perform better in some of your subjects, choose our Matric rewrite course. If you want to take new or different subjects to add to your certificate, you can start our Matric Upgrade course. 

Here is a breakdown of the courses available for improving or changing subjects:

Matric Rewrite

This course, also known as the Second Chance Programme, was initiated by the Department of Basic Education. This allows students to complete their matric as adults. You will be awarded an NSC certificate since you will only be improving the results of the subjects you already wrote.

Here is the course information for our rewrite programme:

  • Certificate Type: National Senior Certificate (NSC)
  • Awarded By: Umalusi
  • Award Type: National Senior Certificate (NSC) and a Programme Completion Certificate
  • NQF Level: 04
  • SAQA ID: 49647
  • Credits:130
  • Entry Requirements: You will need to either have complete Matric results or;

    • Incomplete Matric results
    • You can only rewrite the subjects you already wrote in your exams

Matric Upgrade

This course is a fantastic alternative to our Matric Rewrite course. Students can be as young as  19 years old to start this course. However, you will be only eligible to write exams if you are 21 years old.

Take a look at the course information for Matric Upgrade:

  • Certificate Type: Senior Certificate (Amended)
  • Awarded By: Umalusi
  • Award Type: National Senior Certificate (NSC) and a Programme Completion Certificate
  • NQF Level: 04
  • SAQA ID: 49647
  • Credits:130
  • Entry Requirements: You will need to have completed Matric results or;

    • Incomplete Matric results
    • This course allows students to add new subjects to their certificate

Both of these courses can benefit you in different ways. You can improve your chances for admission into the degree, diploma or certificate programme. At Matric College, we value what education provides for your future. That is why, whether you want to study for a certificate or a diploma, you can do so with your Matric certificate.

We do not focus on prior knowledge, our courses come with foundational qualifications. This ensures you understand the principles for more advanced courses.

How Do Adults Register For Matric?

Before you can start your studies, you should be registered at a college that provides a great curriculum and support for students. At Matric College, we not only provide you with study material, but we also provide you with tutor and peer support. 

Here is a summary of our registration:

    • You can register using our online form
    • Make a callback request
    • Add and contact us on our WhatsApp number: 065 656 9818
    • Contact us through our landline at 021 838 8280
    • Our course experts will contact you and process your registration 
    • Your study material will be sent to you by courier once you have been registered successfully
    • The delivery process takes five to seven days
    • As soon as you receive the study materials, you can start studying as a Matric College student

How Can I Pass Matric?

To pass any grade requires a good understanding of the subjects you cover. This is especially true for the last grade of high school. Matric is the final year that puts everything you have learned to the final test. 

There are four different pass levels in Matric. All four have different criteria to meet, as well as different opportunities for higher education. Have a good look at the requirements for each pass and compare them to your future goals. The following pass levels can be obtained in order to pass Matric:

Bachelor’s Degree Pass

This pass is the highest you can achieve in your Matric. Not only is it an achievement, but it also allows you to enter any university or college, leaving you room to complete a degree. Keep in mind that based on your subject choices. You will only be able to apply for degrees that apply to your subjects. 

To achieve this distinction, you must obtain the following percentages in your subjects: 

  • 40% in your home language 
  • 50% in 4 subjects 
  • 30% in 2 other subjects 

Diploma Pass

Directly under the Bachelor’s pass, you have the Diploma pass. As the name suggests, this allows you to complete a diploma qualification. Some universities may allow you entry into a degree programme. Always ensure that you meet the requirements before applying for a programme. This will prevent you from prolonging your tertiary qualification. 

You must obtain a minimum of: 

  • 40% in your home language 
  • 40% in 4 subjects 
  • 30% in 2 other subjects

Higher Certificate Pass

Although, the pass is not as advantageous as the Bachelor’s and Diploma pass. You can still gain entry into a college or, even, some universities. While traditional Universities may have more strict requirements. Students could potentially enter higher certificate programmes, that are essentially bridging courses to diplomas or degrees. 

Consider the criteria to achieve a higher certificate pass: 

  • 40% in your home language 
  • 40% in 2 subjects 
  • 30% in 3 other subjects

Senior Certificate (Amended) Pass

This is the minimum matric pass achievable. Even though you have passed, this pass level might limit you to many further opportunities. However, at Matric College we want students to prosper in life. Therefore, allowing them to apply to any of our courses with their matric certificate. 

You should still consider improving your results for future educational ventures. Here is a summary to consider:

  • 40% in 3 subjects, which includes your Home Language 
  • 30% in 2 other subjects, one needs to be a First Additional or Home Language
  • 20% in other subjects

Completing your Adult Matric is a great choice for more opportunities and better career options. 

What Can I Do With A Matric Certificate?

Aside from the traditional pathways of furthering your education. A Matric Certificate can allow you to apply for entry-level jobs. These days, opportunities are rare for people without Matric. There are still study opportunities irrespective of having a Matric with some specialised courses. 

You can use a Matric Certificate to do the following: 

  • Find work 
  • Study further 
  • Apply for a bursary

Find Work

Employers value qualifications such as Matric Certificates. This means having a Matric Certificate increases your chances of getting employed. You can use the Certificate to find work as a: 

  • Customer Services Agent 
  • Truck Driver 
  • General Worker 
  • Waiter/Waitress 
  • Sales Assistant 
  • Company Assistant 
  • Receptionist

To help increase your chances for employment, you could complete our short courses that can boost your skills to perform better. 

Study Further

You can apply to a university or college with a Matric Certificate. Whether you meet the standards will determine whether you are accepted. At Matric College, you can enter these courses with your certificate, and some not requiring Matric:

  • NATED Courses (Matric dependant)
  • ICB Course (Requires Grade 10 or Grade 11)

NATED Courses

Your choice in education should be flexible and include practical application of what you learn. With our NATED courses, you will learn from N4 courses that are the foundational qualifications. They help you comprehend what the course is all about. 

Take a look at the different options available:

ICB Courses

We also have great ICB courses available, for anyone that wants to enter a career in Bookkeeping, Finance or Administration roles. The best part is that with the ICB courses, you have optional online examinations, especially for distance learners.

Here are our different courses:

Apply For A Bursary

You can use a Matric Certificate to apply for a bursary. Bursaries will help you pay for your education. Keep in mind that your results can influence the amount of opportunities. So receiving bursaries is not always guaranteed. 

That is why grabbing more affordable opportunities could be a better option. This could help you avoid prolonging your education through waiting. If you are looking for more affordable options without the need for a bursary, you can apply at Matric College. 

We provide different payment and study options to help you finish your education. Our payment options are the following: 

  • Advance Payment
  • Split Payment
  • Monthly Payment
  • Unique Payment

Advance Payment

This payment option is ideal for students who wish to receive all their study materials at once, with the advantage of not having to worry about the next payment. However, always assess your financial situation and choose accordingly. Our course experts are always available to help you make this decision.

Split Payment

If you prefer two equal payments, this option is made for you. Your study materials will be received in two batches, one at the first payment and the rest at your last payment. This is a great option. It allows you to work with a manageable amount, ensuring you are focused on certain subjects and not all of them at once.

Monthly Payments

With this payment plan, you will receive your study material according to the payments made. Unlike the other payment plans, you will be able to dedicate enough time to individual subjects. This allows you to focus more intently instead of splitting your time between different subjects at once.

Unique Payment

Education is not always accessible due to financial constraints. However, Matric College wants to see more students matriculate. Which is why we have a unique payment option.  This option will allow you to speak to our specialist and come up with a payment plan that works with your budget. 

Remember to choose the payment plan that suits your budget, if you can afford a once-off payment, do so. The faster you complete Matric, the better. If you need more flexibility because of other responsibilities, chat with us, and we will try to make it work. 

Can I Go To College Without Matric?

Yes, you can go to college without Matric. You can study at Matric College. You complete these following courses: 

  • Short Courses: These courses will equip you with skills that can help you open a business or find work
  • ICB Courses: With these courses, you will be able to obtain scarce skills that will enable you to find employment or start a business
  • Adult Matric: Through this course, you will learn knowledge that will enable you to study further at university

Which College Can I Apply Without Matric?

You can apply at Matric College! We welcome students with and without Matric. You will find that we have both accredited and non-accredited courses available. This is to ensure that everyone will have a fair opportunity to upskill themselves for future ventures. 

What Do I Do If I Do Not Have A Matric Certificate?

You can enrol with us. We have three options you can choose from, Matric Rewrite, Matric Upgrade and Adult Matric. It is never too late to complete your studies. Regardless of age, we wish to help students complete their Matric. No matter when you were last in school, whether it was 1 or 5 years ago. You can apply to us.

What Level NQF Is Matric?

A Matric Qualification is at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 4. This qualification is registered on the NQF because it is registered with SAQA. This ensures that you gain a qualification that is recognised in South Africa. You can then use this Matric Certificate to look for work or employment anywhere in South Africa.

Can I Upgrade My Matric Results After 5 Years?

Yes, you can upgrade your Matric results even if you have left school in five years. You can apply for the  Matric Upgrade course at Matric College. This course will help you improve your results into marks that you love. We will assist you in reaching your goals. 

We have tutors who are available from 08:00 am to 05:00 pm during working days, to assist you. Furthermore, we also have study material that we send to you. You can use this to prepare for the exams. 

Do Universities Accept Upgraded Marks?

Yes, universities accept upgraded Matric results. In fact, universities advise students to upgrade their marks if they fail to gain admission the first time they apply to university. 

People Also Ask

You should never buy a Matric Certificate. The only genuine Matric Certificate is the one you are studying for. It is issued by Umalusi, which is a Quality Council that prints Matric Qualifications. If you buy a certificate, it is an illegal offence, and you may face dire consequences if you are found using a fake Matric certificate. 

For more opportunities, you should aim for the highest pass level. Receiving a bachelor’s pass requires you to receive the following percentages:

  • 40% in your Home Language
  • 50% in Four high-credit subjects (excluding Life Orientation)
  • 30% in two other subjects

Life Orientation is not a high-credited subject and is therefore excluded from calculating your APS score.

The duration for our Adult Matric course ranges from 12 to 36 months. This all depends on the mode of study you choose and the payment plan. If you pay for your studies without pausing, you may be able to finish in 12 months on a full-time basis. Choosing part-time and not paying often may result in an extended duration.

Your compulsory subjects are the subjects you can not choose. These are important subjects, as they form the basis for further education. They are widely used for different fields of study. 

Here are the subjects you are required to take: 

  • English Home Language/ English First additional language
  • First Additional Language
  • Mathematics/ Mathematics Literacy
  • Life Orientation

You need to complete 7 subjects for traditional Matric and pass six. For Adult Matric, you will need to cover 6 subjects and pass 5. Always aim to pass all your subjects, this can provide more opportunities and avoid having to improve your marks later on. 

Rewrite your Matric first! Give yourself a second chance.  It is always better to have Matric, so rewriting the subjects you failed, can increase the chances of passing. However, if you prefer to study towards a specialised career, you can choose our ICB courses.

 Here is what you should know about our courses:

  • Bridging courses only require Grades 10 or 11
  • Available through distance learning
  • Accredited courses
  • Exams Are proctored (monitored)
  • Diplomas Available

Author: Mulisa Nethononda
Editor: Connor Bergsma
Date Published: June 27, 2022