Today you’re going to learn and understand the South African NQF levels.
The National Qualifications Framework (NQF) in South Africa is a system designed to ensure that the country’s qualifications are of a high standard and are recognized both nationally and internationally.
Managed by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), the NQF system is structured to facilitate lifelong learning and personal growth. It consists of ten (10) levels, each representing a different stage of educational achievement.
Below, we’ll provide a detailed explanation of NQF levels, shedding light on the qualifications and learning outcomes associated with them.
Let’s get started.
NQF Levels Summary
Understand your NQF levels below and read the detailed description of what it entails below.
| NQF Level | Qualification |
| NQF Level 1 | Grade 9 or GETC: ABET Level 4 |
| NQF Level 2 | Grade 10 or N (C) V Level 2 |
| NQF Level 3 | Grade 11 or N (C) V Level 3 |
| NQF Level 4 | Grade 12 or Matric Equivalent Certificates or N (C) V Level 4 |
| NQF Level 5 | Higher Certificates |
| NQF Level 6 | Diploma or Advanced Certificates |
| NQF Level 7 | Advanced Diplomas or Bachelor’s Degrees |
| NQF Level 8 | Post Graduate Diplomas or Honours Degrees |
| NQF Level 9 | Masters Degrees |
| NQF Level 10 | Doctoral Degrees |
NQF Level 1: General Education and Training Certificate (GETC)
NQF Level 1 corresponds to the completion of Grade 9, which is the end of the General Education and Training (GET) phase.
At this level, learners acquire basic education, laying the foundation for further learning.
The GETC is typically awarded after successful completion of the curriculum, which includes a variety of subjects such as languages, mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, and technology.
NQF Level 2: National Certificate (Vocational) – NC(V) Level 2 or Grade 10
NQF Level 2 marks the beginning of the Further Education and Training (FET) phase.
At this level, learners either continue with Grade 10 in the traditional school system or enroll in a technical and vocational education and training (TVET) college for an NC(V) Level 2 certificate.
This NQF level focuses on providing learners with a deeper understanding of basic concepts introduced in the GET phase and begins to introduce more specialized vocational training.
NQF Level 3: National Certificate (Vocational) – NC(V) Level 3 or Grade 11
NQF Level 3 represents the next step in the FET phase, equivalent to Grade 11 or NC(V) Level 3 at a TVET college.
Learners continue to build on their knowledge and skills, with an increased focus on vocational and technical subjects for those in the NC(V) stream.
This level prepares learners for more advanced education and training or entry-level employment in various trades.
NQF Level 4: National Senior Certificate (NSC) or National Certificate (Vocational) – NC(V) Level 4
NQF Level 4 is one of the most significant levels in the South African education system.
This level is equivalent to Grade 12, also known as the Matric year, where learners receive the National Senior Certificate (NSC) upon successful completion.
Alternatively, learners in the vocational stream may receive an NC(V) Level 4 certificate.
The NSC is a critical qualification for accessing higher education and is often a minimum requirement for entry into the workforce.
NQF Level 5: Higher Certificate
NQF Level 5 marks the transition from secondary education to higher education.
At this level, learners can obtain a Higher Certificate, typically offered by TVET colleges, universities, or private institutions. These certificates are often specialized, focusing on a specific industry or field, such as business administration, information technology, or healthcare.
They serve as an introduction to higher education and can provide the skills needed for certain entry-level jobs.
NQF Level 6: Diploma and Advanced Certificate
NQF Level 6 qualifications include Diplomas and Advanced Certificates.
Diplomas are often more comprehensive than Higher Certificates and usually require three years of study.
They cover both theoretical and practical aspects of a field, preparing learners for skilled work or further study.
Advanced Certificates are typically one-year programs that build on the knowledge gained at NQF Level 5, offering deeper insight into a specialized area.
NQF Level 7: Bachelor’s Degree and Advanced Diploma
NQF Level 7 is the level at which Bachelor’s Degrees and Advanced Diplomas are awarded.
A Bachelor’s Degree usually requires three to four years of full-time study, depending on the field.
It provides in-depth knowledge and skills in a specific area of study and serves as the foundation for professional careers or postgraduate studies.
An Advanced Diploma, typically one year in duration, is aimed at those who have completed a diploma and wish to gain further expertise.
NQF Level 8: Bachelor Honours Degree and Postgraduate Diploma
NQF Level 8 is associated with postgraduate education, including Bachelor Honours Degrees and Postgraduate Diplomas.
The Honours Degree is usually an additional year of study following a Bachelor’s Degree, often focused on research and specialization in a particular field.
Postgraduate Diplomas, on the other hand, are shorter, typically one-year programs designed to provide advanced practical skills or specialization beyond the undergraduate level.
NQF Level 9: Master’s Degree
NQF Level 9 is dedicated to Master’s Degrees, which usually require one to two years of full-time study beyond a Bachelor Honours Degree at a university.
A Master’s program involves advanced theoretical or practical training in a specific field, often culminating in a dissertation or research project.
This level prepares learners for high-level professional careers, research roles, or further academic study.
NQF Level 10: Doctoral Degree (Ph.D.)
NQF Level 10 is the highest level on the framework and is reserved for Doctoral Degrees, such as a Ph.D. Achieving this level requires several years of advanced study and original research.
A Doctoral Degree signifies the highest level of expertise in a field, with the learner contributing new knowledge to their discipline through a substantial thesis or dissertation.
Graduates at this level are qualified to undertake research, academic, or high-level professional roles.
Conclusion
The NQF system in South Africa provides a clear and structured pathway for education and training, allowing for progression from basic education to the highest levels of academic and professional achievement.
Understanding the different NQF levels helps learners, educators, and employers alike to recognize the value and equivalence of qualifications, ensuring that education and training are aligned with national and international standards.
Whether you are just starting your educational journey or advancing to higher levels of specialization, the NQF system supports continuous learning and professional development in a way that is both comprehensive and accessible.