The Matric Exemption Certificate is a document that proves your school qualification is equal to the South African Matric. In most cases, the Matriculation Board of South Africa gives this certificate to people who finished school in a different country or followed a different education system. Therefore, if you didn’t complete your Matric through a South African high school or the Adult Matric programme, and your qualification is not accepted here, then you must apply for this certificate. This way, you can continue with your studies in South Africa.
The type of Matric Exemption Certificate you apply for will guide what you can do next. After that, once you receive the certificate, you can apply for first-degree courses at a university using your qualification. In particular, this option is especially helpful for international students who have already completed their Matric in another country. As a result, it opens the door to further education in South Africa, even if your schooling was done elsewhere.
Getting a Matric Exemption Certificate is a smart option if you want to study further but don’t have a Matric certificate with endorsement. In this case, the certificate gives you access to qualifications that would otherwise be out of reach. As a result, you can still take the next step in your education.
How Do I Get A Matric Exemption Certificate?
A Matric Exemption Certificate allows you to apply for degree-level studies if you don’t meet the standard entry requirements. For this reason, the certificate is especially helpful for students who finished school with a Senior Certificate but did not qualify for university admission. In other words, it gives you a second chance to study further and reach your academic goals.
You can follow these simple steps to receive a Matric Exemption Certificate:
- Step 1: Get a Matric exemption certificate application form (M30e) from the Matriculation Board
- Step 2: Fill out all of your personal information
- Step 3: Provide the form back to the Matriculation board
- Step 4: Pay the standard application fee
- Step 5: Wait for five (5) to ten (10) working days for your application to be processed
- Step 6: You will receive your provisional exemption letter as soon as it is ready in about six (6) to eight weeks (8) and use this to apply to universities
Where Can I Get A Matric Exemption Application Form?
You can request the Matric Exemption Certificate application form (M30e) in a few simple ways. First of all, this form is essential because it is required when applying through the Matriculation Board. Without it, you cannot begin your application. Once you receive the form, you can move forward and start the application process right away. In addition, having the correct form from the start helps you avoid delays and makes the process much easier to manage.
You can get the application form in the following ways:
- At Admissions Offices Of Universities
- The Matriculation Board Website
- Via E-mail: [email protected]
- The Form Is Faxed To You
What NQF Level Is Matric Exemption?
A Matric exemption is typically comparable to a NQF Level 4 qualification, which is equivalent to a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a bachelor’s pass. However, it is entirely dependent on the university to which you wish to apply. In fact, some universities may request an NQF Level 5 Matric exemption.
Do your research first before considering applying for a Matric exemption.
Who Qualifies For Matric Exemption?
If you have a Senior Certificate that is not endorsed, or a school-leaving certificate from a foreign country that is equivalent to a Matric certificate in South Africa, then you may qualify for a Matric exemption. In this case, you can use your qualification to apply for the exemption. As a result, this opens up the opportunity to further your studies at a recognised institution.
What Are The Different Types Of Matric Exemption Certificates?
Matric Exemption Certificates give you the chance to apply for studies, even if you don’t meet the usual admission requirements. These certificates are granted based on your age and academic background. In other words, they offer an alternative route to further your studies. As a result, you can still build your future—even if your school results don’t match the standard entry level.
There are two (2) main types of Matric Exemption certificates. They are:
- Complete Exemption Certificate
- Conditional Exemption Certificate
What Is A Complete Exemption Certificate?
A Complete Exemption Certificate is a type of Matric exemption that allows you to study at a university without any extra conditions. In most cases, the Matriculation Board gives this certificate to students who meet all the entry requirements for a degree course.
The certificate you receive will depend on the type of qualification you plan to study. Once awarded, it does not expire and can be used at any time to apply for university.
What Is A Conditional Exemption Certificate?
A Conditional Exemption Certificate is awarded to students who do not fully meet the requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree pass. However, they still qualify to study at a university under specific conditions. This means they can begin their higher education journey while working to meet the full admission requirements. In the meantime, the certificate gives them access to further studies without delay.
There are four (4) different types of conditional exemption certificates. They are the following:
| Conditional Exception Certificate | Description |
| Mature age | You must be 21 or older. You will be able to use this exemption for the entirety of your studies plus an extra two (2) years |
| Foreign conditional | You will be able to use this exemption for the entirety of your studies plus an extra two (2) years |
| Ordinary conditional | Valid for one (1) year and need to be renewed each year for as much as needed |
| Senate’s discretionary | It lasts for three (3) years after a student has completed an Access course or a Foundation programme |
What Is The Difference Between Matric Exemption And Matric Not Exempt?
It is important to understand the difference between ‘Matric Exemption’ and ‘Matric Not Exempt’ if you plan to apply for university studies. In simple terms, these labels show whether you meet the entry requirements for a degree programme. By understanding this, you can take the right next steps and prepare the correct documents for your application. As a result, you will continue your studies more smoothly and avoid unnecessary delays.
Here you will find the differences between a Matric exemption and Matric not except:
| Matric exemption | Matric not except |
| Is recognised in South Africa | Is not recognised in South Africa |
| Can apply for university | Cannot apply for university |
| Can study a degree course | Cannot study a degree course |
How Much Does A Matric Exemption Certificate Cost?
The standard application fee for a Matric Exemption Certificate in 2025 is R1 000.00, and this payment is non-refundable. Keep in mind, this amount is a one-time fee and may change each year. Therefore, it’s important to check the latest fee details before you apply.
How Long Does It Take To Get Matric Exemption?
It takes between six (6) and eight (8) weeks to process a Matric Exemption Certificate application. This is mainly because the Matriculation Board receives a high number of applications each year.
For this reason, it is best to apply as early as possible. By doing so, you can avoid missing important university deadlines.
Is A Matric Exemption Certificate Worth It?
Yes, a Matric Exemption is definitely worth it. If your qualification is not recognised by the Matriculation Board, and you want to continue your studies at a South African university, you will need to apply for an exemption. With this certificate, you can enrol in further studies and work toward a recognised qualification. Over time, it can open doors to job opportunities and help you start the career you’ve always wanted.
What Does A Matric Exemption Certificate Allow Me To Do?
A Matric Exemption Certificate is helpful if you want to study further but don’t meet the standard Matric requirements. With this certificate, you can still apply to universities and colleges. In addition, it opens the door to new opportunities in both education and the job market. This means you’ll have a better chance of building a successful future.
A Matric Exemption Certificate will allow you to do the following:
- Get your education recognised in South Africa
- Apply for a degree course
- Study further at a South African university
- Find employment with your recognised qualification
Will my matric exemption be valid if i change universities ?
Yes, your Matric Exemption Certificate will remain valid. However, if you plan to transfer to a different university, you must first submit an application to the Matriculation Board to inform them of your decision. They need to know which university you are transferring to and when you plan to enrol.
This step is important because not all universities accept the same types of Matric exemptions. For this reason, you must check with the university first to make sure they will accept your exemption before you continue with the transfer process.
Does A Matric Exemption Certificate Expire?
No, a Matric Exemption Certificate does not expire. It becomes valid from the day it is awarded to you. This means you can only start applying for courses once you have received your certificate. Until then, you will need to wait before moving forward with your university applications.
What Can I Study Without Matric?
You do not have to stop learning just because you do not have Matric. In fact, there are still many options that allow you to build skills and grow your career, even without a school-leaving certificate. For example, you can start with one of the first courses in our ICB programmes. These courses give you a real opportunity to gain recognised qualifications and take the first step toward a successful future.
- ICB Business Management Programme
- ICB Bookkeeping and Accounting Programme
What Are The Entry Requirements For The ICB Courses?
ICB courses offer a great way to start your career without needing a Matric certificate. These programmes give you recognised training and are carefully built to help you grow step by step. As you progress, you gain practical skills that you can use in the workplace. Here are the entry requirements for the non-Matric ICB qualifications:
ICB Business Management Programme
- Small Business Financial Management: ICB National Certificate
- Entry requirement: Grade 11 Certificate Or Equivalent Or Bookkeeping: ICB National Certificate
- Office Administration – Business Management: ICB Higher Certificate
- Entry requirement: Small Business Financial Management: ICB National Certificate
- Financial Accounting – Business Management: ICB National Diploma
- Entry requirement: Office Administration – Business Management: ICB Higher Certificate
ICB Bookkeeping and Accounting Programme
- Bookkeeping: ICB National Certificate
- Entry requirement: Grade 10 Certificate or Equivalent
- Bookkeeping: ICB FET Certificate
- Entry requirement: Bookkeeping: ICB National Certificate
- Technical Financial Accounting: ICB National Diploma
- Entry requirement: Bookkeeping: ICB FET Certificate
- Certified Financial Accounting: ICB National Diploma
- Entry requirement: Technical Financial Accounting: ICB National Diploma
- Entry requirement: Technical Financial Accounting: ICB National Diploma
These clear progression routes make ICB qualifications ideal for you if you want to grow your skills step by step.
Are The ICB Courses Accredited?
Yes, all the ICB (Institute of Certified Bookkeepers) courses are fully accredited. This means they meet national education standards and are recognised by employers and other institutions.
ICB courses are accredited by these entities:
| Acronym | Accreditation entity |
| ACCA | Association of Chartered Certified Accountants |
| IAB | International Association of Bookkeepers |
| IAAP | International Association of Accounting Professionals |
| FASSET | Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority |
| ICB | Institute of Certified Bookkeepers |
| QCTO | Quality Council for Trades and Occupations |
| SAIBA | The South African Institute of Business Accountants |
| SAIT | South African Institute of Tax Professionals |
| SAQA | South African Qualifications Authority |
What Job Opportunities Can I Apply For With An ICB Qualification?
ICB qualifications prepare you for real jobs in business, accounting, and office work. They focus on practical skills that you can use in the workplace. Even if you don’t have Matric, these courses still give you the training that employers look for. As a result, it becomes easier to find a job and grow your career.
Job Opportunities With An ICB Qualification
The following job opportunities are available to you, depending on which ICB qualification you completed :
| ICB Programme | Job opportunity | Potential salary range |
| ICB Business Management Programme | Business Consultant | Between R16,208 and R59,033 per month |
| Sales Manager | Between R24,947 and R438,119 per month | |
| Customer Service Consultant | Between R12,500 and R22,000 per month | |
| Sales assistant | Between R10,000 and R25,001 per month | |
| ICB Bookkeeping and Accounting Programme | Bookkeeper | Between R14,886 and R30,000 per month |
| Accountant | Between R21,733 and R454,286 per month | |
| Financial Manager | Between R29,608 and R651,977 per month | |
| Auditor | Between R22,500 and R535,222 per month |
Your salary will depend on a few key things. These include the company you apply to, your level of education, and the responsibilities your employer assigns to you. Together, these factors will determine how much you earn and whether it falls within the expected salary range.
Contact us today to learn more about enrolling in one of our ICB courses and take the first step towards a better future — no Matric needed!
What Are The Benefits Of Studying With Bellview Institute Of Distance Learning?
Studying with Bellview Institute of Distance Learning makes it easier to learn from home and achieve your goals. You can keep working, and you don’t need to travel to attend classes. Most importantly, Bellview provides all the tools and support you need to succeed in your studies.
Here are some of the benefits you will get:
- Study and work at the same time
- Study from anywhere in South Africa
- Tutors available to help you
- A strong student support system
- Access to online study groups
- Study material will be delivered directly to your house
- Receive an accredited and affordable qualification
Testimonials
“Bellview institute are the best way to go if you want to study further. They go out of their way for help you with anything you need to go on with your studies. No matter how big or small your situation may be they are always there to help and to motivate you when you need it the most.”
– Alichia B“Bellveiw is a great pleasure studying with you, you are very helpfull and friendly and always willing to assist with anything your feedback is fantastic and you always call to make sure how our studies are going its a pleasure studying with you” –
Michelle de Bruin
How Can I Apply For A Course?
Applying for a course is quick and easy. You can choose the option that works best for you.
Here are the ways you can apply:
- Fill out an online application form
- Speak to one of our course specialists
- Call us on: 021 838 8280
- Send a WhatsApp or call us on this number: 065 656 9818
frequently asked questions
Yes, you can do your Matric online. You can study for your Matric online from your house at a distance-learning college. But after you have studied, you will have to write your examinations at an examination venue in person.
Yes, Bellview Institute of Distance Learning is a college that is registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training and is allowed to offer tertiary studies to students who want to study from home.
Bellview Institute of Distance Learning offers distance learning courses in South Africa and has a variety of accredited and affordable courses to choose from.
Yes, NSFAS will fund your online distance learning if you are studying full-time through a public university or college. If you are not, you will not receive funding from the NSFAS funding scheme.
Yes, you can be employed without Matric. You can study a variety of courses without a Matric certificate that will teach you the skills and knowledge to start an entry-level job.
Matric exemption allows students who do not meet the full requirements for university entrance to still apply for degree studies under special conditions.
You can apply for a matric exemption certificate if you have completed a senior certificate or equivalent and meet specific subject and pass level combinations.
This certificate is issued by the Matriculation Board and is commonly needed when applying to universities in South Africa.
Yes, you can still be successful without a matric certificate. There are many skills-based courses you can study to build a career and gain work experience in your chosen field.
To convert your Matric Certificate into a Matric Exemption Certificate, you need to apply through the Matriculation Board.
You will be required to submit:
A certified copy of your Senior Certificate or National Senior Certificate
A certified copy of your ID or passport
An application form (available on the Matriculation Board or USAf website)
Proof of payment for the application fee
Once approved, you will receive an exemption certificate, which allows you to apply for degree programmes at universities in South Africa.
No, you do not receive a full Matric Certificate if you fail to meet the minimum pass requirements. However, you may receive a Statement of Results, and you still have the option to rewrite or upgrade your subjects to qualify for a full Matric Certificate later.
A Matric Certificate is officially called a National Senior Certificate (NSC). For adult learners who complete matric later in life, it is called an Amended Senior Certificate (ASC), but both are recognised as equivalent qualifications.
Author: Esmari Pool
Editor: Connor Bergsma
Date Published: January 25, 2023