Bachelor’s pass requirements in South Africa

If you’re in high school or supporting someone who is, you’ve probably come across the term “Bachelor’s Pass”—especially as Matric exams approach. But what does it mean? And how do you achieve it?

In South Africa, earning a Bachelor’s Pass is more than just a great result—it’s a ticket to university and, for many, the first big step toward a career or dream job.

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about getting a Bachelor’s Pass in the National Senior Certificate (NSC).

What Is a Bachelor’s Pass?

A Bachelor’s Pass is one of the levels of achievement in the National Senior Certificate (NSC), commonly known as Matric. Achieving it means you’ve met the minimum requirements to apply for a bachelor’s degree at a South African university.

It’s important to note that while a Bachelor’s Pass allows you to apply to university, it does not automatically guarantee admission. Each university and degree programme has its entrance requirements, including a minimum APS (Admission Point Score) and specific subject results.

Minimum Requirements for a Bachelor’s Pass

To achieve a Bachelor’s Pass, you must meet the following criteria:

• • At least 40% in your Home Language
  • At least 50% in four subjects from the designated list
  • At least 30% in two other subjects
  • You must pass at least six of your seven subjects
  • Life Orientation must be completed, but it does not count toward university admission

What Is the Designated List?

The “designated list” refers to the subjects that count toward university admission. These include:

• • Accounting
  • Business Studies
  • Economics
  • Geography
  • History
  • Languages
  • Life Sciences
  • Mathematics
  • Mathematical Literacy
  • Physical Sciences
  • Visual Arts
  • Information Technology (and others)

At least four of your subjects must come from this list and be passed with 50% or more to qualify for a Bachelor’s Pass.

Let’s Look at an Example

Here’s an example of results that meet the Bachelor’s Pass requirements:

This learner passed six subjects, scored above 50% in four designated subjects, and achieved over 40% in Home Language—qualifying for a Bachelor’s Pass.

Why Is a Bachelor’s Pass Important?

A Bachelor’s Pass opens the door to:

• • University degrees (BA, BCom, BSc, etc.)
  • More career options in both the public and private sectors
  • Opportunities to study further abroad or locally

For many learners, it represents hard work, discipline, and future possibilities.

What Happens If You Don’t Achieve a Bachelor’s Pass?

Don’t worry, there are other options. If you don’t qualify for a Bachelor’s Pass, you may still qualify for:

• • Diploma Pass – allows access to diploma-level courses at universities of technology or colleges.
  • Higher Certificate Pass – allows access to certificate programmes.
  • TVET Colleges – offer vocational and practical learning that leads directly to employment.

Final Thoughts

A Bachelor’s Pass is a powerful achievement—it shows that you’ve met a nationally recognized academic standard and are ready for higher education. But getting there takes planning, focus, and consistent effort, especially in Grades 10 to 12.