Can I Study At Unisa Without A Matric Certificate

By |

Can I Study At Unisa Without A Matric Certificate

Can I Study At Unisa Without A Matric Certificate And Qualification

UNISA Admission Beyond Matric: Options for Aspiring Students:

Would you like to take courses at Unisa without having to matriculate? Indeed, there are a number of Unisa programmes for which matriculation is not required. There are people who think that if you don’t have a matriculation diploma, you can’t go to college or get a decent job. However, matriculation is a level 4 NQF qualification in terms of education. One can also enrol in a variety of other approved NQF level 4 courses.

There are other admission pathways available to students applying to courses at the University of South Africa (Unisa) without a matric certificate. A matric certificate is not necessary for a number of courses and qualifications offered by Unisa.

With these programmes, you will not receive a matriculation certificate; instead, you will receive an alternative certification that is recognised and accredited, which you can use to advance your education to NQF level 6. The matriculation exam does not actually prepare you for a specific job; rather, it is merely a requirement for continuing your education.

Read: Can I upgrade my matric at Unisa?

Other Courses And Programmes You Can Study Without MNatric At Unisa

The courses and programmes listed below are available to Unisa students without matriculation for the 2024/2025 academic year:

Higher Certificate in Human Resource Management:

  • HR professionals are essential in every organization. This program equips you with the foundational knowledge and skills required for this field.

Higher Certificate in Law:

  • If you aspire to work in the legal sector, this certificate program introduces you to key legal concepts and principles, providing a solid foundation for further studies in law.

Higher Certificate in Accounting Sciences:

  • This program is designed for individuals interested in pursuing a career in accounting and finance. It doesn’t require a matric certificate, making it an ideal choice for those looking to enter this field.

Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work:

  • If you have a passion for social work and helping others, this course prepares you for a career as a social auxiliary worker without needing a matric certificate.

Higher Certificate in Marketing:

  • The field of marketing is dynamic and in demand. Unisa’s Higher Certificate in Marketing allows you to develop essential marketing skills, even without a matric certificate.

Other Courses include:


  • Beauty Therapy Studies
  • Bookkeeping and Accounting Studies
  • Child Day Care Studies
  • Computer Studies
  • Management Studies
  • Occupational Health and Safety Studies
  • Policing, Investigations, and Forensic Studies
  • Project Management Studies
  • Workplace Administration and Secretarial Studies
  • Work Environment Skills Quick Courses

Requirements Needed To Study Unisa Courses And Qualification Without Matric

Courses and programmes without Matric at Unisa require the following criteria:

Mature Age Exemption:

  • Unisa offers a mature age exemption for applicants who are 23 years or older and do not meet the standard admission requirements. You may need to complete the National Benchmark Test (NBT) or submit a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) to demonstrate your readiness for higher education.  Can I Study At Unisa Without A Matric Certificate

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):

  • In some cases, Unisa may grant admission based on Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). RPL assesses your prior work experience, training, and skills to determine eligibility for a course.

English Language Proficiency:

  • For applicants whose first language is not English, Unisa may require proof of English language proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.

National Senior Certificate (NSC) Conditional Exemption:

  • If you have a partially completed NSC, you may be eligible for conditional admission. Unisa may consider applicants with an NSC and some passes, but not a full matric certificate.
  • Certain courses may have specific subject requirements, so it’s essential to check the course details for prerequisites.

National Certificate (Vocational) (NCV):

  • Unisa often accepts NCV Level 4 qualifications as an entry requirement for various courses.
  • Again, specific courses may have subject-related requirements, so it’s crucial to review the course details for information.

N3 Technical Certificate:

  • Some technical and engineering courses at Unisa may accept a completed N3 technical certificate for admission

Alternative Qualifications:

  • Unisa may consider other qualifications or certifications such as diplomas, certificates, or relevant work experience for entry into certain courses.
  • Each course’s admission requirements may vary, so be sure to check the specific program details on the Unisa website.

Contact Details

  • Student enquiries
    Contact details for student assistance and service
  • Ethics Hotline
    0800 005 311
    unisa@whistleblowing.co.za
  • Visit Unisa:
    All students must book a space before visiting any Unisa office
  • Main campus:
    Preller Street, Muckleneuk Ridge, Pretoria
  • Sunnyside campus (applications, registrations & learning centre):
    Cnr Justice Mahomed & Steve Biko Streets, Sunnyside, Pretoria

A glimmer of hope for those hoping to pursue higher education without a matric certificate is provided by the University of South Africa. UNISA is an exemplar of inclusivity in education, offering an open admission policy, alternative entry routes, and support through bridging courses and RPL. Aspiring students who want to succeed academically at UNISA should research the particular requirements of the programmes they have selected. Visit The Official Website Of Unisa Tvet College

Related Posts: