How to pay for SAQA

When dealing with qualifications verification in South Africa, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) plays a crucial role. One of the primary steps in this process involves making a payment to SAQA. This guide will walk you through the payment process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Why You Need to Pay SAQA

SAQA charges a fee of R 610,00 for each verification letter, which includes verifying national qualifications. The turnaround time for receiving your verification letter can range from 6 to 25 working days, depending on the specifics of your request.

Payment Methods for SAQA

At the end of the application process, you will be directed to a payment link. SAQA offers two convenient payment methods:

  1. eCommerce (Card Payment)
    • This option is available to all applicants, regardless of location.
    • You can use your credit or debit card to make the payment online.
    • The system will automatically link your unique submission number to your payment.
  2. Cash Payment (For Applicants in South Africa)
    • This method involves making a cash deposit at a Standard Bank branch.
    • You will need to use a system-generated Standard Bank deposit slip as a reference.
    • Ensure that the deposit slip is printed and taken to the bank for the transaction.
    • Similar to the eCommerce method, your unique submission number will be linked to your payment automatically.

Note: No other methods of payment will be accepted by SAQA, so it is important to follow the outlined procedures strictly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Paying for SAQA

  1. Complete Your Application
    • Ensure that all required fields and documents are correctly filled out and uploaded.
    • Review your application for any errors or missing information before submission.
  2. Receive the Payment Link
    • At the end of your application process, you will see a payment link.
    • Click on this link to proceed to the payment page.
  3. Choose Your Payment Method
    • Select between eCommerce (card payment) and cash payment (only for applicants in South Africa).
    • Follow the prompts to complete your payment.
  4. Confirm Your Payment
    • For eCommerce payments, ensure you receive a confirmation of your transaction.
    • For cash payments, retain the deposit slip and any confirmation receipts from the bank.
  5. Track Your Application
    • After payment, monitor the progress of your application through the SAQA system.
    • You will be notified once your verification letter is ready.

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.