Saqa Online Application

Do you hold a foreign qualification and want it recognized in South Africa? The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) offers a streamlined process for evaluating your credentials. This blog post will guide you through the SAQA online application, the recommended and most convenient way to get your qualifications assessed.

Why Apply Online?

There are several advantages to applying online for SAQA evaluation:

  • Convenience: Skip the paper chase! Fill out the application form and upload documents from the comfort of your home.
  • Speed: The online process is generally faster than submitting a paper application.
  • Accuracy: The online system guides you through the application, reducing the chance of errors or missing information.

How to Apply for SAQA Evaluation Online

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for SAQA evaluation online:

  1. Registration: Visit the SAQA Foreign Qualifications Evaluations website: https://dfqeas.saqa.co.za/. Click on “Register” to create an account.
  2. Application Form: Once registered, navigate to the “Apply Online” section. Fill out the online application form accurately and completely. Be sure to include details like your qualifications, work experience (if applicable), and contact information.
  3. Supporting Documents: Upload clear, certified copies of all required documents. This may include your foreign qualification certificate, transcripts, syllabus, and proof of identity. For foreign language documents, ensure you have sworn translations into English. Remember, SAQA requires both the original document and the translation.
  4. Payment: SAQA charges a fee for the evaluation process. The online system will guide you through secure payment options (ZAR currency only).
  5. Submission: Once you’ve reviewed your application and ensured everything is complete, submit it electronically.

Processing Times

The processing time for your SAQA evaluation depends on the application type you choose:

  • Normal Application: 30 working days
  • Urgent Application: 20 working days (additional fee may apply)
  • Priority Application: 10 working days (significant additional fee applies)
  • Special Application: 48 hours (for emergencies, contact specialrequests@saqa.org.za for details)

Conclusion

The SAQA online application process is designed to be user-friendly and efficient. By following the steps outlined and ensuring all requirements are met, you can smoothly navigate the evaluation of your foreign qualifications. This is a crucial step for integrating into South Africa’s educational and professional landscape, so make sure to submit all necessary documents and information accurately.

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.