What is a Diploma Pass for the Matric Exams?

A diploma pass is the second-highest pass level on the matric certificate. It allows students to apply for higher education programmes in South Africa. It is one of four matric pass levels that determine what students can study after school.

Students with a diploma pass can also look for work and apply for entry-level jobs.

This article will cover what is a diploma pass in South Africa, the minimum pass requirements, and work and study options available.

What is a Diploma Pass in South Africa?

A diploma pass means a student has met the minimum marks needed to study towards a diploma qualification. It allows students to apply for higher education programmes where they meet the entry requirements.

A diploma pass qualifies students to apply at Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges, where they receive practical training.

Students can also use their diploma pass to apply for National Accredited Technical Education Diploma (NATED) courses or scarce skills programmes. These options help students gain an NQF qualification at each level.

What are Some Diploma Pass Requirements?

Students who write the matric exams take a mix of compulsory and elective subjects. The compulsory subjects are general and help assess a student’s skills and understanding. These include:

• Two languages
• A mathematics option
• Life Orientation

Along with these, students choose three elective subjects. These should match their interests and the entry requirements of their future studies.

Here are the diploma pass requirements:

• Home Language: Students must get 40% or higher.
• Four high credit subjects: Students must score at least 40% or higher in these subjects.
• Two other subjects: Students must achieve 30% or higher.

Read more on Understanding the Requirements for Diploma Pass in South Africa

What Courses Can You Study with a Diploma Pass?

A diploma pass opens several study options. Students can apply for a diploma or higher certificate courses at many South African universities and colleges.

For example, Regenesys offers Higher Certificate programmes in Business Management and Public Management, both of which accept students with a diploma pass.

Students can also pursue NATED courses, designed by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), to build skills in fields such as:

• Business Management
• Financial Management
• Marketing Management

Another option is to join the scarce skills programmes offered by the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB), which focus on business, accounting, and marketing skills.

After completing a diploma, students can progress to undergraduate programmes, advanced diplomas, or start working while continuing their studies online.Read on Why a Higher Certificate in Business Management is perfect for entrepreneurs

Difference Between Diploma Pass and Other Pass Levels

The matric is divided into four different pass levels depending on the scores that are assigned to various subjects. The bachelor’s pass is the highest level and offers provisional university acceptance, while the NSC pass is the lowest qualification.

We have covered what is a diploma pass in matric, let us see how it compares to the other pass levels in the matric exam.

Bachelor Pass Requirements:

A bachelor’s pass is for students who want to enter a university degree programme. It shows strong academic performance in key subjects. The following are the requirements:

• Home Language: 40% or higher
• 4 high credit subjects: 50% or higher
• 2 other subjects: 30% or higher

Know what is Bachelor Pass Requirement in detail here!

Higher Certificate Pass Requirements:

A higher certificate pass is for students who want to study a diploma or higher certificate. It demonstrates competence in core subjects while allowing flexibility in electives. The following are the requirements:

• Home Language: 40% or higher 
• 2 high credit subjects: 40% or higher
• 3 other subjects: 30% or higher 

Know what is Higher Certificate Pass Requirement in detail here!

NSC Pass Requirements: 

An NSC pass is the minimum pass level for matric. It allows students to receive a matric certificate and pursue certain learning opportunities. Students can fail one subject if they meet the minimum scores in the others. The following are the requirements:

• Home Language: 40% or higher 
• 2 subjects: 40% or higher
• 2 other subjects: 30% or higher 

Students are allowed to fail one subject for an NSC pass as long as they score 30% or higher for the remaining subjects.

Know what is NSC Pass Requirement in detail here!

What If You Don’t Meet the Diploma Pass Requirements?

If a student does not meet the diploma pass requirements, they either reached a lower pass level or failed matric.

A certificate pass is the next level. It allows students to enrol in higher certificate programmes. An NSC pass is the lowest level, but students with an NSC pass cannot apply for a diploma or higher certificate courses.

Here are options for students who did not get a diploma pass:

• Rewrite Matric Exams: This is the fastest way to improve your score. Students under 21 can rewrite up to four subjects online through the Department of Basic Education (DBE).
  
• Other Study Pathways: Students can enrol in a diploma programme in their chosen field. The NQF qualification earned can later be used to apply for an undergraduate programme.

Read on How To Check Department of Basic Education Matric Results Online? 

Benefits of a Diploma Pass

A diploma pass offers many benefits for students who want to study further or start a career. It opens doors to new opportunities and helps students build both knowledge and practical skills. Some of the main advantages include:

• Access to tertiary education: It allows students to study for a diploma or higher certificate at a recognised institution.
• Career readiness: Diploma programmes teach practical and job-related skills that prepare students for work.
• Flexibility: Students can study part-time or online while working.
• Pathway to further studies: A completed diploma can help students apply for an advanced diploma or degree later.
• Increased employability: Employers often prefer candidates with both practical and academic training.
• Opportunities in various sectors: Diploma holders can find jobs in business, marketing, finance, public administration, and other fields.

Explore Higher Certificate Courses in South Africa: Everything You Need to Know 

How to Apply for Diploma Courses in South Africa?

Many universities offer courses that require a diploma pass. Students should contact the institutions to check if the diploma or higher certificate programme can later lead to a degree. They should also confirm subject requirements and minimum scores before applying.

Students should make a shortlist of programmes and note the application deadlines. Missing a deadline can delay admission by six months or more.

Here are the steps to apply for diploma courses:

• Find universities or colleges offering diploma or higher certificate programmes.
• Contact the institutions to confirm entry requirements.
• Complete the application form correctly.
• Attach all required documents.
• Pay the admission fee, if applicable.

Conclusion

A diploma pass bridges education and employment. It allows students to apply for a diploma and higher certificate programmes or start entry-level jobs in various industries. With a diploma pass, students can work while studying online or enrol in a full-time programme to gain further skills.

At Regenesys Education, students with a diploma pass can take the next step through our Higher Certificate programmes. These programmes help you gain practical skills, build your career, and open doors to further study opportunities. 

Take your next step with Regenesys and advance your education and career.

What is a Diploma Pass – FAQ