Yes, you can go to college without Grade 12 in South Africa, but the options available to you will be more limited. Most four-year universities and colleges require a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent for admission.
However, there are some colleges, like Matric College, that offer programmes to students without an NSC. At Matric College we offer a wide range of courses, that do not require Grade 12!
Can You Go To College In South Africa Without Grade 12?
To go to college without Grade 12 in South Africa, you will need to:
- Apply to a college like Matric College
- Find a programme that is accredited
- Meet the programme’s prerequisites
- Get registered and start studying
Apply To A College Like Matric College
Matric College is a great option for students who have to study and continue with other daily tasks. We offer not only Grade 12 courses, but other well-respected accredited courses, like ICB courses.
We also provide specialised courses, that are short but allow students to learn specific skills to further their education.
Find A Programme That Is Accredited
Accreditation means that the programme meets certain standards of quality. You can check the accreditation status of a programme on the website of the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
Meet The Programme's Prerequisites
At Matric College we understand that there may be students without Grade 12. Therefore, a majority of our courses just require Grade 9, 10 or Grade 11. We also make provisions for students who can apply for short programmes without any formal education.
What Courses Does Matric College Offer For Those Without Grade 12?
We offer a variety of courses specially designed for individuals who do not have a Grade 12 qualification. These courses cater to the needs of those wanting to advance their education and skills without the typical prerequisite of a grade 12 certificate.
| Course Name | Description | Industry or Sector | Criteria | Credits | NQF Level |
| Adult Matric | An opportunity for adults to complete their Grade 12 certificate | Versatile; can open doors to various industries once completed | Designed for adults who did not finish school | 120 | 04 |
| ICB FET Senior: Bookkeeping Certificate | Focuses on bookkeeping and accounting | Financial sector, roles related to bookkeeping and accounting | Ideal for those wanting to delve into finance without the standard qualifications | 130 | 04 |
| ICB Small Business Financial Management Certificate | Equips learners with skills to manage finances in a small business setup | Small business sector, managerial roles, and aspiring entrepreneurs | Designed for those interested in financial management within a small business context | 120 | 04 |
Which Courses Are Tailored For Individuals Without A Grade 12 Qualification?
For individuals lacking a Grade 12 qualification, Matric College has the following courses to offer:
- Adult Matric: This is an opportunity for adults to complete their matric certificate, even if they did not finish school
- ICB FET: Bookkeeping Certificate: A course that focuses on bookkeeping and accounting, ideal for those wanting to delve into finance without the standard qualifications
- ICB Small Business Financial Management Certificate: This course equips learners with the skills to manage finances in a small business setup
How Can One Complete Grade 12 Via Matric College's Tailored Programmes?
For many individuals who were unable to complete their schooling, the journey towards educational fulfilment can seem daunting. Matric College, recognising this gap, offers tailored programmes to help individuals complete their grade 12 education.
In What Ways Does Matric College's Approach Differ From Conventional Grade 12 Programmes?
Education has continuously evolved to better meet students’ needs, and Matric College is at the forefront of this evolution with its unique approach to Grade 12 education. These programmes allow students to complete their Grade 12 irrespective of how many years they have been out of school.
Students will also not be required to study in a classroom but through distance learning. Consider the following:
- Focus On Adult Learners
- Distance Learning Model
- Flexible Study Schedule
- Tailored Education Approach
Focus On Adult Learners
Matric College’s programmes are designed for adults, acknowledging the different challenges and demands they face compared to younger students.
Distance Learning Model
Offering distance learning, we enable our students to study from anywhere, an essential feature for those juggling work or living far from educational centres.
Flexible Study Schedule
Unlike standard Grade 12 programmes with rigid timetables, Matric College provides a flexible learning pace, allowing students to balance education with other life responsibilities. You will be able to study full-time or part-time.
Tailored Education Approach
Blending modern teaching techniques with the foundational Grade 12 curriculum, Matric College’s method is both adaptable and supportive, specifically suited to adult learners’ needs.
What Kind Of Support And Resources Are Available During The Programme?
Embarking on a new educational journey can be both exciting and challenging. While the curriculum and learning process are crucial, the support and resources available play a significant role in ensuring a student’s success.
Matric College, known for its tailored approach to Grade 12 education, offers support mechanisms and resources. Here is what we have to offer our students:
- Dedicated Tutors
- Online Resources
- Study Guides
- Discussion Forums
- Feedback Mechanisms
- Student Counselling
- Technical Support
Dedicated Tutors
Our students have access to tutors who specialise in different subjects. These tutors are there to answer queries, provide clarity on topics, and offer guidance. Their expertise ensures that students receive individualised attention, enhancing the learning experience.
Online Resources
The digital age has transformed education. Matric College offers an array of online resources, for example, interactive modules within our study materials. These digital tools cater to different learning styles, making the process more engaging and efficient.
Study Guides
Apart from standard textbooks, students receive specially curated study guides. These guides break down complex topics, making them easier to understand. They also highlight essential points, aiding in effective revision.
Discussion Forums
Learning is not just about individual study. Discussion forums provide a platform for students to interact, share insights, and seek peer support. These forums foster a sense of community among distance learners.
Feedback Mechanisms
Regular assessments and assignments are part of the programme. Once submitted, students receive feedback, helping them identify areas of improvement. This continuous feedback loop ensures students are on the right track.
Student Counselling
Recognising the challenges some students might face, whether academic or career-orientated, Matric College provides counselling services. These services offer a safe space for students to discuss concerns and receive guidance.
Technical Support
For a distance learning programme, seamless access to digital platforms is crucial. Matric College offers technical support to ensure students face no hindrances in accessing online resources.
How Can I Apply At Matric College?
Our Application process is relatively simple. Like most institutions, there are a couple of documents needed as well as interactions between our course experts and prospective students. This is to ensure that you make informed decisions regarding the qualification you choose.
Consider these few steps:
- Step 1: Browse through our courses you can study without Grade 12
- Step 2: Click on the “Apply Now” button to fill out the application form
- Step 3: Fill out all the required information and submit the form
- Step 4: You will then be contacted by a course expert to discuss your application and options
- Step 5: Forward all documents, your highest grade as well as identity documents
- Step 7: You will be contacted to receive your application status and if successful you will receive your books and begin studying!
People Also Asked
It is not very common for students to bypass Grade 12 and still enrol in college, especially in South Africa. However, with some provisions put in place for adult learners, students can now complete Adult Matric, which only requires a Grade 9 report card.
There are many potential Challenges associated with not completing Grade 12, including The following:
- Limited job opportunities: Many employers require a Grade 12 certificate for entry-level jobs. Without a grade 12 certificate, students may have difficulty finding a job
- Lower earnings: People who do not have a Grade 12 certificate typically earn less money than those who do
- Reduced chances of success in higher education: Students who do not have a grade 12 certificate may find it more difficult to succeed in higher education
Yes! At Matric College we provide great options for students who do not hold a Grade 12 certificate. You can complete the following courses:
No, typically there are no age restrictions concerning courses without Grade 12. At Matric College, the only age requirement is for the Grade 12 exams. To be eligible to write exams as an adult, you will need to be 21 years old. For our other courses, that do not require Grade 12, you are only required to be 16 and above
Author: Lynnzelle Adams
Editor: Connor Bergsma
Date Published: January 10, 2024