The NQF is a structured system that categorizes qualifications based on levels and credit values, ensuring each qualification is recognized nationwide. With 10 levels, the NQF allows for a broad spectrum of qualifications, from basic education to advanced degrees, all standardized by SAQA. This system facilitates an integrated approach, providing transparency for learners, employers, and educational institutions alike.
| NQF in full | NQF Level 6 | NQF Level 9 |
| NQF Levels | NQF Courses | NQF Level 4 courses |
| NQF Level 4 | NQF Level 5 | NQF Honours levels |
| NQF Purpose | NQF Level 7 | NQF Qualification |
| NQF Principles | NQF Level 8 | NQF Framework |
- What does NQF 7 stand for?
- What is NQF for grade 12?
- What is NQF responsible for?
- How many NQF levels are there?
- What is a NQF 8 qualification?
- What is NQF 5 equivalent to?
NQF Levels and Their Components
The NQF divides qualifications into 10 levels, each with assigned credits that reflect the volume of learning required. Each level indicates the complexity and depth of learning:
- Levels 1 to 4: These levels fall under the General and Further Education and Training Sub-Framework (GFETQSF) and include foundational and high school-level qualifications.
- Levels 5 to 10: These fall under the Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF), covering post-school qualifications, from certificates to doctoral degrees.
- Occupational Qualifications (OQSF): This sub-framework spans levels 1 to 6 and is managed by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). Certain levels (7 and 8) also allow occupational qualifications, provided they are in partnership with recognized professional bodies.
Unit Standards and Qualification Rules
A unique feature of the NQF is its unit standards, which are smaller, specific courses designed to impart practical skills. Each unit standard awards credits, and learners can accumulate these credits toward a full qualification. Unit standards are divided into three components:
- Fundamental Component: Compulsory and worth 25 credits, this component covers essential skills such as communication and numeracy.
- Core Component: Mandatory and worth 91 credits, the core component teaches essential knowledge directly related to a learner’s chosen field.
- Elective Component: Learners choose electives worth 22 credits, allowing them to focus on specialized areas relevant to their career interests.
These components ensure that each qualification provides a balanced combination of foundational skills, core knowledge, and optional specialization.
The Three Quality Councils
SAQA collaborates with three Quality Councils (QCs), which oversee different sectors of education:
- UMALUSI: Manages school and adult basic education qualifications.
- QCTO: Responsible for occupational qualifications.
- Council on Higher Education (CHE): Governs higher education qualifications, including diplomas and degrees.
Each QC ensures that qualifications within their scope meet the required standards, allowing learners to be confident in the value of their credentials.
How to Use the SAQA Database to Search for Qualifications
If you’re interested in furthering your education or understanding what qualifications are available, the SAQA database is a valuable tool. It provides details on:
- Available qualifications for each NQF level.
- Credit requirements and unit standards.
- Service providers offering the courses.
This database allows you to make informed decisions about your educational and career path, helping you find qualifications that suit your goals.
Who Can Benefit from the NQF?
One of the NQF’s most valuable aspects is its inclusivity. There is no specific target demographic; instead, the framework is designed to support all learners, whether they are students, professionals looking to upskill, or individuals seeking new career paths. The NQF is accessible to anyone aiming to enhance their skills, validate their learning, or contribute to South Africa’s economy.
Conclusion
The National Qualifications Framework is more than just a system of educational levels—it is a foundation for South Africa’s education and training sectors. By understanding the NQF, you can make informed choices about your educational journey, career development, and lifelong learning pursuits.
Overview of Public Universities in South Africa
Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.
University of Pretoria
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
- Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.
University of Cape Town
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
- Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.
Stellenbosch University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
- Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.
University of the Witwatersrand
- Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
- Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.
University of Johannesburg
- Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
- Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.
University of the Free State
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.
University of Venda
- Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
- Application Period: Usually from May to September.
University of Fort Hare
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
- Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.
University of the Western Cape
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
- Application Period: Generally from May to September.
North-West University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
- Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.
Rhodes University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
- Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.
Nelson Mandela University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
- Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.
University of Limpopo
- Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
- Application Period: From April to September.
University of Zululand
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
- Application Period: Usually between April and November.
Central University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
- Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.
Vaal University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
- Application Period: Typically from May to September.
Walter Sisulu University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
- Application Period: From April to September.
This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.