Both courses are good in their own way. If you are planning to pursue further studies here in South Africa, then Matric is the way to go. If you are aiming to further studies overseas, then, studying “O” (Ordinary) level will be the best. “O” levels are an international kind of education.
However, having a Matric does not necessarily mean that you cannot study overseas. You can, if you are accepted by a University.
Is “O” Level Difficult Or Easy?
Every course is as easy or as difficult as you make it. Here are a few tips that can make you sail through your “O” levels or any other course for that matter:
- Have a study timetable
- Stick to your timetable
- Study where there are few distractions
- Take breaks in-between your studies
- Submit your assignments in time every time
- Practice with past exam papers
- Study with friends to share ideas
- Do not cram but read to understand
- Start preparing for your exams early
- Arrive at your examination centre early
- Write your exams
- Pass your exams
What Is “O” Level Equivalent To In South Africa?
“O” Level also known as the International General Certificate of Education (IGCSE) or the General Certificate of Education (GCE) is equivalent to the South African Grade 10 and Grade 11 years of schooling. “O” Level is at Level 3 of the South African Qualifications Authority-administered National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
How Many Subjects Are There In “O” Levels?
Depending on the number of subjects that they want to study, students can choose subjects to study from the following 41 subjects:
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How Many Years Are In “O” Levels?
“O” level courses usually take two years to complete, and the final exams are taken at the end of that period. Examinations are held in June and November. Matric is a three-year course, that includes Grade 10, 11 and 12.
How Old Is A Grade 12 In South Africa?
Grade 12 students are usually between the ages of between 16 – 18 years. Here are the phases and the respective ages in the South African education system:
| PHASE | GRADE | AGE |
| Foundation Phase | Grade R to Grade 3 | 6 to 9 years |
| Intermediate Phase | Grade 4 to Grade 6 | 9 to 12 years |
| Senior Phase | Grade 7 to 9 | 12 to15 years |
| Further Education and Training | Grade 10 to 12 | 15 to 18 years |
What Qualification Is Matric?
In South Africa, Matric is the final year of High School and the qualification received when graduating from High Hchool is called a Matric Certificate. Matric is used as a measure of the minimum University entrance requirements.
What Are The Matric Pass Levels?
Which Matric Subjects Count For APS?
Your APS is your Admission Point Score. It is calculated using the percentage marks that you will have obtained in your Matric subjects. Here are the subjects that count for APS:
- Accounting
- Agricultural Science
- Business Studies
- Consumer Studies
- Dramatic Arts
- Economics
- Engineering Graphics and Design
- Geography
- History
- Information Technology
- Languages
- Life Sciences
- Mathematical Literacy
- Mathematics
- Music
- Physical Science
- Religion Studies
- Visual Arts
Is South Africa Matric Accepted In Universities Around The World?
The South African Matric is accepted by some Universities overseas, while others require holders of Matric/National Senior Certificate to write additional exams. Here are some major Universities and their admission requirements:
| UNIVERSITY | REQUIREMENTS |
| Harvard University | Accepts National Senior Certificate (NSC) unconditionally |
| University of Melbourne | Accepts the National Senior Certificate (NSC) unconditionally |
| University of Sydney | Accepts the National Senior Certificate (NSC) unconditionally |
| University of Queensland | Accepts the National Senior Certificate (NSC) unconditionally |
| University of Edinburgh | Accepts the National Senior Certificate (NSC) plus Cambridge “A” level subjects |
| University of Oxford | Accepts the National Senior Certificate (NSC) plus Cambridge “A” level subjects |
| Imperial College of London | Does not accept the National Senior Certificate (NSC) |
| University of Manchester | Accept the National Senior Certificate (NSC) plus the passing of their International Foundation Course |
| USA Universities | Most Universities in the USA accept Matric and also consider the following:
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What Are The Other Considerations For Studying Overseas?
Besides your academic qualifications, here are the other requirements that you may be asked for when you want to study overseas:
- All Universities require proof of proficiency in English. You may be asked to take a test.
- Some Universities may require you to show proof of funds to support yourself during the course of your studies
- Some universities allow students to work, whilst others strictly forbid it.
- All Universities require you to apply directly to the faculty of your choice. This is because faculty requirements for admission are different.
- Whilst some universities simply mention that the NSC is accepted, others expressly welcome students from South Africa
- Admission requirements for all Universities are generally high
- Other Universities offer you funding, provided that you qualify
- Many countries have a visa requirement, in order for you to attend a University as a foreigner
- Many Universities require an admission test for any foreign student
Does Harvard Accept South African Students?
The Harvard South Africa Fellowship Programme (HSAFP) is now accepting applications for the 2023 – 2024 intake. This fellowship Programme was established by Harvard University President Derek Bok in 1979 to address the needs of South Africans denied access to advanced education by the apartheid system.
What Is The Best Country To Study?
Here are some of the best countries to study abroad:
- Australia
- Canada
- Germany
- United States of America (USA)
- Switzerland
- United Kingdom (UK)
- The Netherlands
- France
- New Zealand
- Spain
What Is The Best Course To Study In South Africa?
Here are some of the best courses to study in South Africa at Matric College:
What Is The Largest University In Africa?
The largest University in Africa is the University of Pretoria. It has over 52 000 students at seven (7) campuses. The largest University in South Africa by enrolment is the University of South Africa (UNISA).
Which Country Has Free University?
The following countries have free Universities:
- Denmark
- Finland
- Iceland
- Sweden
- Austria
- Czech Republic
- Argentina
- Germany
Is “O” Level For Me?
Yes, “O” level is for you if you want to pursue studies and training abroad. The Cambridge “O” level Certificate is an internationally recognised qualification.
Author: Collin Wilbesi
Editor: Sive Ncanywa
Date: August 29 , 2022