1. Introduction

This circular serves as an amendment to Circular 0053/2005, which provided minimum admission requirements for higher certificate, diploma and bachelor's degree programmes at higher education institutions.

The Minister of Education has promulgated a revised version of the initial policy in Government Gazette 31231 of July 2008. This circular must also be read in conjunction with Circular 0013/2008, which provides the promotion requirements for the National Senior Certificate.
2. Revised minimum requirements for admission to higher education
2.1 Candidates must now achieve a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the higher education institution of their choice, in addition to the specific requirements of the various qualifications offered by the institution.
2.2 The minimum admission requirement to a Higher Certificate is a National Senior Certificate (NSC) as certified by Umalusi, with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching at the chosen higher education institution.
2.3 The minimum admission requirement to a Diploma is a NSC as certified by Umalusi, with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the chosen higher education institution, as well as an achievement rating of 3 (Moderate achievement, 40-49%) or better in four recognised NSC 20-credit subjects.
2.4 The minimum admission requirement to a Bachelor's Degree is a NSC as certified by Umalusi, with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the chosen higher education institution, as well as an achievement rating of 4 (Adequate achievement, 50-59%) or better in four subjects chosen from the following list of recognised 20-credit NSC subjects (which will be known as the 'designated subject list'):
  • Accounting
  • Agricultural Sciences
  • Business Studies
  • Dramatic Arts
  • Economics
  • Engineering Graphics and Design
  • Geography
  • History
  • Consumer Studies
  • Information Technology
  • Languages (one language of learning and teaching at a higher education institution and two other recognised language subjects)
  • Life Sciences
  • Mathematics
  • Mathematical Literacy
  • Music
  • Physical Sciences
  • Religion Studies
  • Visual Arts
3. These revised minimum admission requirements will be effective as from 1 January 2009. Learners entering higher education institutions in 2009 must therefore meet these requirements.
4. Principals are kindly requested to bring the contents of this circular to the attention of their staff, parents and learners.


SIGNED: SM NAICKER
HEAD: EDUCATION
DATE: 2008:09:19


Government Gazette 31231 of July 2008 ("Minimum Admission Requirements")  (size: 462 KB)