A SAQA certificate is an official document issued by the South African Qualifications Authority after evaluating your foreign qualifications. It determines the equivalence of your qualifications to South African standards, which is crucial for pursuing further studies, employment, or professional practice in the country.
Why Do You Need a SAQA Certificate?
For Study Purposes
If you wish to attend a South African educational institution, your qualifications must be recognized by the SAQA, especially if the institution requires it. This ensures that your previous education meets the necessary standards for admission.
For Employment and Work Permits
When applying for certain work permits in South Africa, immigration policy mandates the submission of a SAQA certificate of evaluation. This helps employers and the government to verify that your qualifications are legitimate and meet the required standards.
For Professional Practice
Many professional bodies in South Africa require a SAQA evaluation before you can practice your profession. This ensures that your qualifications are on par with local standards and you are competent to perform your job.
How to Apply for a SAQA Certificate
Step 1: Obtain the Application Form
You can get the application form from the SAQA website or complete your application online, which is the recommended method.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Fill out all sections of the application form accurately. Ensure that all required information is provided to avoid any delays in processing your application.
Step 3: Make the Payment
Ensure that proof of payment accompanies your application. Payments must be made in ZAR (South African Rand) currency. The cost details are available on the SAQA website.
Step 4: Submit Required Documents
Submit legible and certified true copies of all required documents, including a copy of a legitimate identification document (ID). If your certificates are in foreign languages, they must be accompanied by sworn translations into English.
Note:
The SAQA requires both the original language document and the sworn translation.
Processing Time and Costs
Processing Time
- Normal Application: 30 working days
- Urgent Application: 20 working days
- Priority Application: 10 working days
- Special Application: 48 hours (requires notification to specialrequests@saqa.org.za)
Costs
The cost of the evaluation service varies and is detailed on the SAQA website.
Conclusion
Obtaining a SAQA certificate is a crucial step for anyone with foreign qualifications planning to study or work in South Africa. By following the proper application procedures and ensuring that all necessary documents are submitted, you can facilitate a smooth evaluation process.
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.