How do matric points work

National Senior Certificate Pass Requirements

The NSC pass requirements have changed tremendously with the introduction of CAPS. The basic concept revolves around a minimum pass requirement but also three other levels that determine your further study options. The three levels are

Higher Certificate
Diploma
Bachelors Degree

How do matric points work

These levels are entry guidelines for tertiary certificate, diploma or degree courses. Each tertiary institution has additional requirements that need to be met for entrance.

This means that you must be aware of the course entry requirements for the course you wish to study. Achieving the appropriate level does not guarantee acceptance.

Subject Choices

A minimum of seven subjects are required to be considered for a national senior certificate.

Compulsory Subjects

Home Language
First Additional Language
Life Orientation

Designated Subjects

The remaining four subjects can either be chosen from the High or Low Credit subject lists. Subjects on the high credit list are given more recognition by tertiary institutions.

High Credit Subjects

Languages
Accounting
Agricultural Science
Business Studies
Consumer Studies
Dramatic Arts
Economics
Engineering Graphics & Design
Geography
History
Information Technology
Life Sciences
Mathematics
Mathematical Literacy
Music
Physical Sciences
Religion Studies
Visual Arts

How do matric points work

Low Credit Subjects

Agricultural Management Practices
Agricultural Technology
Civil Technology
Computer Applications Technology
Dance Studies
Design Studies
Electrical Technology
Hospitality Studies
Mechanical Technology
Tourism

Higher Certificate Pass Requirements

These are the minimum pass requirements.

Must obtain at least 40% in your Home Language
Must obtain at least 40% in two other subjects
Must obtain at least 30% for three other subjects
You may fail one subject but proof of your SBA items (Tests, assignments etc) must be available

Its also important to remember that one of your languages must either be English or Afrikaans to qualify for a Higher Certificate.

Diploma Pass Requirements

Must obtain at least 40% for your Home Language
Must obtain at least 40% for 3 other High Credit Subjects
Must obtain at least 30% for 2 other subjects
You may fail one subject but proof of your SBA items (Tests, assignments etc) must be available

Bachelors Degree Pass Requirements

Must obtain at least 40% for your Home Language
Must obtain at least 40% for 4 other High Credit Subjects
Must obtain at least 30% for two other subjects

This requires that you obtain at least 30% for your first additional language.