NQF Levels play an important role in the South African academic system. Find out what they mean and how you can achieve each level. There are even alternative programmes available that you can do.
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NQF Level – What do They Mean
There are NQF levels all throughout your high school and tertiary education. From grade 9 up to grade 12, you have your lower level qualifications. This consists of level 1 to 4. Once you decide to further your education you will start your journey to the higher NQF levels.
NQF Level | Qualification | How to Achieve NQF Level |
Level 1 | Grade 9 | Successfully complete grade 9 |
Level 2 | Grade 10 | Complete grade 10 |
Level 3 | Grade 11 | Complete grade 11 |
Level 4 | Grade 12( matric) | Successfully pass your matric final exam |
Level 5 | Higher Certificate | Enrol in a higher certificate program |
Level 6 | National Diploma and Advanced Certificate | Complete a national diploma qualification or an advanced certificate |
Level 7 | Bachelor’s Degree and Advanced Diploma | Enrol and complete a bachelor’s degree programme |
Level 8 | Honours Degree and Postgraduate Diploma | Enrol in an honours programme |
Level 9 | Master’s Degree | Successfully complete a master’s Degree |
Level 10 | Doctorates Degree | Successfully complete a doctorates degree qualification |
How the SAQA Relate to the NQF
The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) is a professional body. These professionals are selected by the Ministers of Higher Education and Training. Members of the SAQA advise ministers of higher education on the NQF act. It also ensures that the objectives of the NQF are achieved.

What is the Equivalent of a NQF Level 4?
A NQF level 4 is a matric certificate qualification. You could earn your matric certificate by completing your matric final exams. If you can’t complete your matric, there are national and FET certificates equivalent to it.
Is an NQF Level Qualification Worth it?
Having a NQF qualification does give you more opportunities. So yes, it is worth it. There will be a lot of studying and effort needed from you. Luckily we have student support. With us your learning is our priority. That’s why we have online tutors and study groups available to you.
What are Credits and how are They Earned?
Credits are the marks you earn once you complete your school subjects or college course. Every subject you do counts for a certain amount of credits. Your credits then determine if you can enrol in a certain program or move to the next level of a course.
National Diploma NQF Level
The National Diploma is a NQF Level 6 certificate. It takes around three years to complete a national diploma course. There are a variety of courses and programs that you can do to achieve a NQF level 6 certificate.
Accredited Courses
We have a range of accredited courses you can do. Each course will enable you with the skills you need to start your career. All courses are done via distance learning. This means that you don’t attend any physical classes and instead study from the comfort of your home. Ready to get started? Have a look at our accredited courses.
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Alternative Courses
If you don’t qualify for an accredited course there are alternative courses you can do. You can dive into short courses or even matric upgrade courses. Both aim to give you the skills needed to become a professional in your chosen career. So fear not, there are several options available to you.
Skill Focused Courses
If you aren’t ready for an accredited course you have other options. These are open entry courses you can do. These are also known as short courses. These courses will give you the skills needed to be a professional in your career.




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Climb the Ladder With Each Level
Ready to explore your options? Contact one of our course experts and find out everything you need to know. One call is all it takes to start your future.
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