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
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.