Saqa Offices

SAQA is a government body responsible for the development and implementation of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) in South Africa. The NQF creates a standardized system for classifying qualifications based on learning outcomes. This ensures employers can easily understand the skills and knowledge associated with different qualifications.

Where are the SAQA Offices Located?

SAQA has its headquarters in Pretoria, South Africa. Here’s the information for easy reference:

  • Physical Address: SAQA House (formerly Hatfield Forum West), 1067 Arcadia Street, Hatfield, PRETORIA
  • Postal Address: Postnet Suite 248, Private Bag X06, WATERKLOOF, 0145
  • Phone: 012 431 5000 (General Inquiries)
  • Fax: 012 431 5147
  • Email: saqainfo@saqa.org.za (General Inquiries)

SAQA’s Role in Your Life

SAQA’s services impact various aspects of education and employment in South Africa:

  • For Employers: SAQA helps verify the authenticity and level of qualifications held by potential employees. This ensures you’re recruiting individuals with the skills your business needs.
  • For Learners: SAQA provides a framework for understanding the progression of qualifications. This empowers you to make informed decisions about your education path.
  • For Education Providers: SAQA ensures qualifications offered by institutions meet the NQF standards, guaranteeing quality education.

SAQA Leadership Team

SAQA is led by a team of dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to ensure the smooth functioning and advancement of the organization. Here are the key figures in SAQA’s leadership:

Chairperson: Prof. Peliwe Lolwana

Prof. Peliwe Lolwana serves as the Chairperson of SAQA. With a wealth of experience in education and qualifications, Prof. Lolwana provides strategic leadership and guidance to the organization.

Deputy Chief Executive Officer: Ms. Julie Reddy

Ms. Julie Reddy is the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of SAQA. She plays a crucial role in supporting the CEO and overseeing the operational aspects of the organization.

Chief Executive Officer: Ms. Nadia Starr

Ms. Nadia Starr is the CEO of SAQA. Under her leadership, SAQA continues to ensure the quality and integrity of qualifications in South Africa. She is also the Information Officer, responsible for overseeing the access to information in accordance with the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA).

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.