Higher Education and Career Choices

This set of flashcards covers key terms, definitions, and concepts related to higher education, career choices, admission requirements, financial assistance, and study pathways.

Higher education

Learning that takes place at a higher level than at school, requiring completion of Grade 12 for entry to universities or colleges.

NSC subjects

Subjects recognized for entry to Higher Certificate, Diploma and Degree courses, having a credit value of 20, except Life Orientation which has a credit value of 10.

Promotion requirements for NSC

Requirements to pass include one official language with a minimum of 40%, two other subjects with a minimum of 40%, and three subjects with a minimum of 30%.

TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges

Educational institutions that replaced FET colleges, offering vocational courses and focusing on job training and scarce skills.

National Senior Certificate (NSC)

A qualification obtained at NQF Level 4, often required for further studies in higher education.

Higher Certificate

Provides basic introductory knowledge and practical techniques, enabling work in specific industries and further studies.

Diploma

Enables work in a specific industry or profession, focusing on comprehensive knowledge and practical experience.

Bachelor’s Degree

Provides broad education focusing on principles, theory, and research for professional careers.

Minimum admission requirements

Specified criteria that must be met for admission to Higher Certificate, Diploma, or Bachelor’s Degree programs.

National Benchmark Tests (NBT)

Tests some higher education institutions require, assessing academic literacy and quantitative literacy.

Bursary

Financial aid for students based on academic performance, which may require repayment only if the student fails.

Scholarship

Monetary award for school performance in academics or sports, typically not requiring repayment.

Study loans

Money lent for education, requiring repayment with interest, obtained often through banks or specific financial schemes.

Learnership

A job that pays while studying and provides practical experience alongside academic learning.

Financial Obligations

Legal contracts outlining repayment conditions for funds received for education, differing for bursaries, scholarships, and loans.