The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) ensures all qualifications, both domestic and foreign, are evaluated and positioned within the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). This evaluation helps determine the equivalent level of your foreign qualification in South Africa, potentially opening doors for further education or employment opportunities.
Foreign Qualifications Evaluation and Advisory Services
The purpose of the evaluation function is the recognition of foreign qualifications in terms of the South African National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
SAQA performs the function as an integral part of a national recognition value chain. The focus of SAQA’s role is on the location of foreign qualifications within the NQF. For admission to study; professional licensing; and employment the specific internal criteria and requirements of other relevant institutions must be met.
Evaluation is a two-phased process by SAQA to:
- Verify foreign qualifications by ensuring the following
- Issuing bodies are accredited/recognised in the national systems they operate in
- Qualifications are legitimately issued by those issuing bodies and part of the national qualifications of that country
- Qualifications documents are in order and awards claimed by individuals are genuine
- Compare foreign qualifications with South African qualifications, considering the structure and outcomes of the foreign qualifications, to locate them within the South African NQF.
Foreign Qualifications
A foreign qualification is issued by a nationally recognised institution and forms part of the national education and training system of a country other than South Africa.
A foreign qualification is not:
- Professional membership or a professional designation.
- A certificate based on a short course; or in-service training, a workshop or seminar, or workplace integrated learning which does not form part of the requirements to obtain a qualification.
- A South African qualification.
None of the above should be submitted as a foreign qualification to be evaluated by SAQA
Before You Apply: The Essentials
Before delving into the application form, gather these crucial documents:
- Your foreign qualification certificate(s) (originals or certified copies)
- Official transcripts (translated into English if necessary)
- Course syllabi or descriptions outlining the learning outcomes
- Proof of accreditation for the institution issuing your qualification
Finding the SAQA Application Form
SAQA thankfully offers a streamlined online application process. Head over to their website (https://www.saqa.org.za/) and navigate to the “Documents” section. There, you’ll find a downloadable application form, along with other helpful resources.
Filling Out the SAQA Application Form:
The SAQA application form is designed to be user-friendly, but here are some key points to remember:
- Accuracy is paramount. Double-check all information, especially qualification details and contact information.
- Clarity is key. Use clear and concise language throughout the form.
- Don’t forget the details. Include specific details about your qualifications, including course content and duration.
- Attach all supporting documents. Ensure all required documents are attached and properly labeled.
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.