If you’ve just received your Matric (NSC) results, you’ll usually see one of these outcomes: Higher Certificate, Diploma, or Bachelor’s. Many learners confuse them, and that leads to mistakes when applying for university or college. This guide explains what each pass means, the minimum requirements, and what you can study with each one—so you can make the right move for 2025/2026 applications.
What Is a Higher Certificate Pass in Matric Results?
A Higher Certificate pass is a Matric pass level that allows you to apply for Higher Certificate programmes, many TVET college courses, and some private college qualifications. It’s often the best route if you want to study quickly and enter the job market sooner, or if you want a bridging path toward a diploma later.
Minimum requirements for a Higher Certificate pass
- At least 40% in Home Language
- At least 40% in two other subjects
- At least 30% in three other subjects
- You must pass 6 out of 7 subjects
What you can study with a Higher Certificate pass
- Higher Certificate programmes (business, IT support, education support, safety, logistics, etc.)
- Many TVET programmes (depending on entry rules)
- Bridging or foundation routes that can lead to a diploma later
Best for: learners who want an affordable, practical entry into studies and work.
What Is a Diploma Pass in Matric Results?
A Diploma pass is a higher Matric outcome that can qualify you for Diploma programmes at universities of technology, some universities, and many colleges. Diplomas are usually more career-focused and can lead directly to employment—especially in fields like business, engineering-related studies, IT, and healthcare support.
Minimum requirements for a Diploma pass
- At least 40% in Home Language
- At least 40% in three other subjects
- At least 30% in two other subjects
- You must pass 6 out of 7 subjects
What you can study with a Diploma pass
- Diplomas at universities of technology (e.g., IT, HR, logistics, marketing, engineering diplomas where allowed)
- Many private college diplomas
- Certain professional career programmes (subject to requirements)
Important: Even with a Diploma pass, some courses require specific subjects (like Maths, Physical Sciences, Accounting, or Life Sciences).
Best for: learners who want strong career options without necessarily doing a full degree first.
What Is a Bachelor’s Pass in Matric Results?
A Bachelor’s pass is the highest standard Matric pass level and is commonly required for degree studies at universities. This does not automatically guarantee admission to every degree—universities still look at your APS score and specific subject requirements for the course you want.
Minimum requirements for a Bachelor’s pass
- At least 40% in Home Language
- At least 50% in four other subjects (these must be approved subjects, not including Life Orientation)
- At least 30% in two other subjects
- You must pass 6 out of 7 subjects
What you can study with a Bachelor’s pass
- University degree programmes (BA, BCom, BSc, Education, etc.)
- Degrees with competitive selection (e.g., nursing, engineering, law) if your marks and APS meet requirements
Best for: learners aiming for university degrees and professional careers.
Higher Certificate vs Diploma vs Bachelor’s: Quick Comparison
Higher Certificate
- Entry-level Matric pass outcome
- Best for: bridging, TVET, practical career start
Diploma
- Mid-level Matric pass outcome
- Best for: career-focused diplomas, universities of technology, private colleges
Bachelor’s
- Highest Matric pass outcome
- Best for: university degrees (APS and subject requirements still apply)
Why You Can Still Be Rejected Even If You Got a Bachelor’s Pass
This is one of the biggest search questions. A Bachelor’s pass doesn’t mean automatic entry because:
- Universities use APS scores
- Courses have subject minimums (e.g., Maths for engineering)
- Some programmes have limited spaces and selection tests/interviews
If you don’t meet the course requirements, you can still study through:
- A different degree or faculty
- A diploma first, then articulation into a degree
- Higher certificate or foundation programmes
What Should You Do If Your Pass Level Is Too Low?
If you needed a Diploma or Bachelor’s pass but got a lower outcome, you still have options:
- Rewrite key subjects to improve marks
- Upgrade to meet entry requirements
- Apply for re-mark/re-check if you were close to a boundary
- Use a bridging route (Higher Certificate → Diploma → Degree)
Check Matric Results
FAQs People Search
Can I go to university with a Diploma pass?
Yes, for certain programmes—especially diplomas and some degree routes—depending on APS and subjects.
Is a Higher Certificate a fail?
No. It’s a valid Matric pass level that opens many study and career paths.
What is better: Diploma or Bachelor’s pass?
Bachelor’s is higher and opens degree studies, but the “best” depends on your career goals and course requirements.
