Saqa Verification

Are you a South African professional looking to land your dream job or pursue further education? Verifying your qualifications with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) can be a crucial step. This blog post will guide you through the process of SAQA verification in South Africa, including costs and important details.

What is SAQA Verification?

SAQA verification confirms the authenticity and legitimacy of your South African qualifications on the National Learners’ Records Database (NLRD). This official verification letter serves as proof for employers, educational institutions, and other entities requiring confirmation of your academic achievements.

Who Needs SAQA Verification?

  • Job Seekers: Many employers in South Africa request verification of qualifications during the hiring process. SAQA verification ensures your qualifications are recognized and valued.
  • Students: Applying for further education programs may require verification of your existing qualifications to demonstrate academic readiness.
  • Professionals Seeking Licensure: Certain professions might require SAQA verification for licensing or registration purposes.

SAQA Verifications Service

Private Sector Clients

The SAQA Verifications Service is available for the verification of qualifications achieved at South African providers as recorded on SAQA’s National Learners’ Records Database (NLRD). Read more…

Public Sector Clients

The SAQA Verifications Service is available for the verification of qualifications achieved at South African providers as recorded on SAQA’s National Learners’ Records Database (NLRD). Read more…

Individual Verification Letters

This service is for individuals who need a verification letter confirming their tertiary qualifications obtained in South Africa. The verification letter is limited to registered qualifications and NOT short courses nor foreign qualifications or professional designations. Read more…

Extract from the NLRD

The National Learners` Records Database (NLRD) is the management information system of the National Qualifications Framework. The NLRD holds records of education and training: qualifications and part qualifications (including unit standards) registered on the NQF; Read more…

What Qualifications Can Be Verified?

SAQA verification is limited to registered South African qualifications, excluding:
  • Short courses
  • Foreign qualifications
  • Professional designations

How to Verify Your Qualifications with SAQA

Verifying your qualifications with SAQA is a straightforward process:
  1. Prepare Your Request: Ensure your qualifications are registered and recognized by SAQA. Note that this service does not cover short courses, foreign qualifications, or professional designations.
  2. Send Your Request: Submit your request via email to verificationsletter@saqa.org.za with the subject line “Verification Letter – Quotation.”
  3. Follow Instructions: SAQA will provide instructions on the next steps, including any additional documentation required.

Costs and Processing Time

The cost for a SAQA verification letter is R 610.00 per letter. The processing time can range from 6 to 25 working days, depending on the nature and complexity of the request. This fee covers the verification of national qualifications and ensures that your qualifications are accurately reflected in a formal letter.

Processing Time

Expect a turnaround time of minimum 25 working days. Keep an eye on your email for any updates or additional information requests from SAQA.

Conclusion

SAQA verification is a valuable service for South African professionals seeking to showcase their legitimate qualifications. With a verified letter, you can confidently present your credentials to potential employers, educational institutions, and licensing bodies.

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.