If you want to become a qualified teacher in South Africa, the Bachelor of Education admission process is the first important step in your academic journey. Therefore, before you start practising as a qualified teacher, you must meet academic requirements, submit the correct documents, and follow a structured admission pathway.
Understanding the admission process early will help you avoid any unwanted delays and confusion going forward. Whether you are currently finishing matric or planning a career change, knowing the eligibility criteria, subject requirements & registration steps will help you apply with confidence.
In this article, we explore the Bachelor of Education admission process, including eligibility criteria, application steps, documents & selection process, practical teaching experience & SACE registration.
Table of Contents
Eligibility Criteria For BEd Admission
Begin by checking whether your matric results meet the degree-level entry standard and whether you have the subject combinations needed for the specialisation you want to teach. Most South African universities and private higher education institutions require a National Senior Certificate with a Bachelor’s pass or an equivalent qualification, plus minimum marks in language and selected school subjects.
For example, the Regenesys School of Education specifies Matric with a Bachelor’s pass or NQF level 4 equivalent qualification as one of the primary requirements for its Bachelor of Education programme.
The following is the general eligibility criteria:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) with Bachelor’s Pass or recognised equivalent.
- Minimum marks in the language of instruction (often Home Language or First Additional Language).
- Required passes in subject areas that match your chosen specialisation, such as Science & Technology or Business & Management.
- A minimum APS score or selection score set by a specific institution.
- Alternative access routes and bridging options for applicants who lack direct entry.
Read more on What is a Bachelor of Education (BEd)? Scope, Eligibility, Duration & Career Opportunities.
Application Steps – Bachelor of Education Admission Process
The application process demands attention to deadlines, supporting documents and any campus selection events. Start your application by creating an account on the educational institution’s website. Fill the online form, upload certified copies or certified PDFs of your identity document and your full matric certificate or equivalent. Submit any required academic transcripts, subject lists and proof of residency if requested.
Some institutions may also run selection tests or short interviews. If so, they will advise you of dates and how the selection is scored. Maintain all receipts of application and registration payments, and follow up with the respective admissions team if you do not receive confirmation.
1. Documents & Selection Process
Most institutions ask for a full matric certificate (not only a statement of results), certified copies of an identity document or passport, and academic transcripts if you studied elsewhere. You may also need to share a short motivation letter, a CV if you are an older applicant, and contact details of a reference, such as a former teacher or employer.
Some educational institutions also request a police clearance certificate or a health declaration before practical teaching training placements. Also, selection can be competitive. Some candidates are shortlisted on APS and subject match, then finalised through interview or portfolio review.
Read more on Special Needs Education: Should You Choose BEd Inclusive Education as a Specialisation?
2. Practical Teaching Experience & SACE Registration
A teaching degree in South Africa includes periods where you teach in a real school, and these practical sessions are required to graduate and register as a professional teacher. Before you begin school-based teaching, most institutions require provisional registration with the South African Council for Educators (SACE).
The SACE provisional registration ensures that your placements meet legal and professional requirements and that you can be supervised in the classroom. Check SACE timelines and document lists early, as some documents must be current at the time of admission.
The key practical and registration steps include:
- Apply for provisional SACE registration as a student teacher before your first school placement.
- Arrange medical or police clearance documents if the institution or SACE requires them for placements.
- Confirm placement dates and your host school assignment well ahead of block teaching.
- Keep copies of supervision reports, attendance records, and mentor assessment feedback.
- Retain your SACE confirmation and include it in your student portfolio for graduation.
Read more on Top 7 Time Management Tips for Working Adults Pursuing a BEd Degree.
Why Choose Regenesys School of Education?
The Regenesys School of Education offers the Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching programme, with specialisations aligned to national needs and school subject demand.
The programme is structured as a four-year BEd with recognised credits and practical experience. It includes contemporary pedagogies and AI modules at no extra cost as part of the learning pathway.
Here are the key highlights of the programme:
- CHE-accredited BEd degree for Senior Phase and FET teaching
- Specialisations in Science & Technology or Business & Management
- Built-in practical teaching experience and supervision
- AI modules are included within the programme at no extra cost
Read more on Bachelor of Education Applications Open for 2026.
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Conclusion
Completing the Bachelor of Education admission process requires planning, organising the necessary documents, and taking early action on SACE provisional registration and teaching training placements. If you meet the academic & language requirements and prepare your documents in time, you will be well placed for selection in the educational institution of your choice.
Visit the Regenesys Education website and explore the programme page for detailed information, including its admission requirements & process.
Contact us today to speak with a career adviser for personalised guidance.
FAQs
What are the requirements to study a Bachelor of Education?
You will need a National Senior Certificate with a Bachelor’s Pass and the required marks in language and specific subjects. Each institution may also have a minimum APS score requirement.
What is the APS score for teaching?
The APS score varies by educational institution. Most universities and private institutions set a minimum APS that you must meet to qualify for admission.
Is BEd better than PGCE?
A BEd is a full undergraduate teaching degree, while a PGCE is a postgraduate qualification for individuals who already have completed another degree. Your current qualifications and career path determine which one is better for you.
Does a PGCE qualify you to teach?
Yes, a PGCE qualifies you to teach if it is recognised and you have also registered with the South African Council for Educators (SACE).
Are there subject-specific marks required for specialisation?
Yes, subject and language thresholds vary by institution and specialisation.
