Many South Africans who didn’t pass their matric exams or want to improve their results often wonder: “Can I upgrade my matric at a TVET college?”
The straightforward answer is: No, public TVET colleges in South Africa do not offer matric upgrade programmes.
While these institutions provide valuable vocational training, they are not authorized or equipped to run matric upgrade or adult matric classes.
However, this doesn't mean all hope is lost. There are other accredited institutions and options available to help you upgrade or complete your matric and improve your chances of further education or employment.
In this blog post, we’ll explain:
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Why TVET colleges don’t offer matric upgrades
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What your options are if you want to improve your matric results
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Where and how to register for a matric upgrade or adult matric
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The difference between NSC rewrite and the Amended Senior Certificate
Why TVET Colleges Don’t Offer Matric Upgrades
TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges are focused on skills development, trades, and vocational education. They offer qualifications like:
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National Certificate Vocational (NCV)
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NATED/N1–N6 courses
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Occupational and skills programmes
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Artisan and technical training
Their purpose is to equip students with workplace-ready skills and qualifications, not to offer school-level education such as Grade 12 rewrites or matric upgrades. Matric-level education and rewrites fall under the authority of the Department of Basic Education (DBE) — not the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), which governs TVETs.
So, Where Can You Upgrade Your Matric?
You can upgrade your matric through private institutions, distance learning providers, and by registering to write exams through the Department of Basic Education (DBE).
Here are your best options:
1. Private Colleges That Offer Matric Upgrade
Several reputable private institutions across South Africa offer part-time and full-time matric upgrade programmes. Some of them include:
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Skills Academy
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Matric College
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Bellview Institute of Distance Learning
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Damelin Correspondence College
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INTEC College
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TWP Academy
These colleges help students prepare for either:
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The NSC (National Senior Certificate) June Rewrite, or
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The Amended Senior Certificate (SC) for adults
They provide learning material, tutor support, and exam preparation services, but the final exams are still administered and marked by the DBE.
2. The Department of Basic Education (DBE)
The DBE allows candidates to register for matric rewrites or adult matric exams directly. Here’s how it works:
● NSC June Rewrite (For candidates under 21)
If you wrote your matric exams recently (after 2008), and you're not happy with your marks, you can rewrite up to 2 subjects.
Requirements:
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Must be under 21 years old
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Must have written matric before (NSC)
● Senior Certificate (Amended) (For candidates over 21)
This option is for adults who didn’t complete matric or want to upgrade after many years.
Requirements:
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Be 21 years or older
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Have at least Grade 9 or equivalent (ABET Level 4)
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Register for a minimum of 6 subjects
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You don’t need a school report, only proof of your highest qualification
You can register for either of these exams at your local DBE district office or online on the DBE website.
Registration usually opens in October and closes in January for the following year’s May/June exams.
What Subjects Can You Upgrade?
Whether you’re rewriting through NSC or doing Adult Matric, you can upgrade or write subjects such as:
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English HL/FAL
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Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
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Physical Sciences
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Life Sciences
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Business Studies
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Economics
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History
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Geography
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Agricultural Sciences
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Accounting
You only need to focus on the subjects you want to improve — not your entire matric year.
How Long Does a Matric Upgrade Take?
The duration of a matric upgrade depends on:
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The number of subjects you are rewriting
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Whether you study full-time, part-time, or online
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Your personal study pace
Most matric upgrade programmes run for 6 to 12 months, with final exams written in May/June.
Why Upgrade Your Matric?
✔ Better Chances for University or College Admission
Upgrading can help you improve your APS score and meet minimum requirements for diploma or degree programmes.
✔ More Job Opportunities
Many employers require a matric certificate. Better marks increase your eligibility and open more doors.
✔ Access to Learnerships and Internships
Government and private sector learnerships often require a completed matric with specific subject passes.
✔ Personal Growth
Finishing or improving your matric is a huge personal achievement that boosts your confidence and career.
Tips for a Successful Matric Upgrade
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Choose the right subjects that support your career or study goals
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Use past exam papers to practice
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Create a study plan and stay consistent
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Ask for help from tutors, study groups, or online platforms
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Register early to avoid missing DBE deadlines
Final Thoughts
While TVET colleges do not offer matric upgrade programmes, you still have great options available. Private colleges and distance learning institutions can help you prepare for a successful rewrite, while the Department of Basic Education provides the official platform for rewriting exams.
Whether you're under 21 and want to fix one or two subjects, or you're an adult who never finished matric — it’s never too late. A matric certificate can open doors to further education, better jobs, and a brighter future.
