When leaving your current job you want to be sure you end things on a positive note. After submitting your two-weeks’ notice in-person, it’s suggested you write a resignation email formally informing your employer and/or HR of your intentions to leave. To avoid any awkwardness when quitting, follow these tips to help you get started when writing a professional resignation email.
Why write a resignation email
Besides the obvious of professional courtesy, a resignation letter gives you the chance to thank your employer for the opportunity and everything they’ve helped you accomplish or learn. Even if you’re not leaving on good terms, it’s still recommended you mention something you enjoyed or appreciated about the job. You want to avoid burning bridges at all costs when resigning, you never know when you may need them in the future.
What to include in your email
When crafting your email, keep it brief. It’s not necessary to disclose what your next job is or where you’re going. It’s okay to leave out details! Start by stating your title and the date you will be leaving, which typically is the day you included in your two-weeks’ notice. Including your last day date will give the employer time to find a new employee to fill your role.
As mentioned above, express your gratitude for the opportunity. You don’t need to write an entire essay, but rather a few sincere sentences. It’s a good idea to mention that during your last two weeks on the job, you are willing to train any new employee(s) or create any necessary training materials that will help the next person transition smoothly. In closing, if you feel comfortable, leave your personal contact information in case they need to get in contact with you for any reason.
In short:
- Keep your email brief
- Include the date of your last day
- Express gratitude for the opportunity
- Offer to train new employee(s)
- Leave your personal contact information
Resignation Email Example
Subject: (Your name) Resignation
Dear (name of employer or HR representative’s first and last name),
Please accept this message as formal notice that I am resigning from the position of (job title). My last day of employment will be (specific date).
I appreciate all the opportunities I have been given working at (company’s name). Working on your team has allowed me to develop my professional skills. I am happy to provide assistance during this transition.
I wish you and the company the very best going forward. If you need anything please don’t hesitate to reach me at (personal email and/or phone number).
Best Regards,
(Your name)
Use the template above when sending a polite resignation letter. It will show that you’re a thoughtful professional and will help establish a positive, lasting relationship with your soon-to-be former boss.
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.