What is an Exemption?

In South Africa, an exemption is a formal acknowledgement that a student’s foreign qualification, such as the Cambridge AS and A Levels, meets the minimum requirements for entry into a South African university. Without a complete exemption, students would not meet the criteria to enroll in local tertiary institutions, which require a qualification equivalent to the South African Matric (NSC) to ensure students have the foundational knowledge necessary for higher education.

Why Cambridge AS and A Levels are Recognized in South Africa

Cambridge AS and A Levels are internationally recognized qualifications known for their rigorous standards and in-depth subject coverage. Due to this, Cambridge qualifications are accepted by the Matriculation Board of South Africa (MBSA) under the South African Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). With the right subject combination and grades, Cambridge qualifications can meet the matriculation standards, facilitating university entry without needing to rewrite or supplement the qualification.

At Apex Academic Centre, we support students through the Cambridge curriculum and provide guidance on choosing subjects that align with exemption criteria, helping them prepare for both their exams and future studies in South Africa.

Requirements for Complete Exemption with Cambridge AS and A Levels

The process for converting Cambridge AS and A Levels into a complete exemption involves meeting specific subject and grade requirements set out by the Matriculation Board. Here’s a step-by-step look at these criteria.

1. Choosing the Right Subject Combinations

The subject combination is essential for obtaining a complete exemption. Students must select a combination of AS and A Level subjects that fulfills the requirements outlined by the South African Matriculation Board. Here’s a breakdown of the subject requirements:

• One Language at AS or A Level: At least one language is compulsory, and it should ideally be English if you plan to study in South Africa.
• Three Subjects at A Level: These should include subjects like Mathematics, Science (Biology, Physics, or Chemistry), Humanities (History or Geography), or Business Studies.
• One Additional Subject at AS Level: An extra subject at AS Level rounds out the requirement and provides a broader knowledge base.

Note: Certain combinations and subject choices are preferred, as they more closely align with the local NSC standards. Consulting with a guidance counselor or academic advisor can help you ensure that your subjects meet the criteria for a complete exemption.

2. Meeting Grade Requirements

Grades are a critical factor in securing a complete exemption. Students must achieve satisfactory grades across their chosen subjects. Generally, the following grades are required:

• A Level Subjects: Grades A-E are accepted for the three A Level subjects.
• AS Level Subjects: Grades A-D are generally required for the AS Level subject(s).

Achieving high grades strengthens your exemption application, as it demonstrates your capability to meet or exceed South African education standards. Apex Academic Centre offers extensive support and expert tutoring to help students excel in their AS and A Level exams, ensuring they meet the necessary grade criteria.

3. Specific Requirements for Students Pursuing Science or Engineering

For students interested in studying Science, Engineering, or similar fields, certain subjects are essential. These students should include Mathematics and one of the core sciences (Physics, Chemistry, or Biology) in their A Level subjects. This not only strengthens their exemption application but also ensures they meet the prerequisites for their desired degree programs in South African universities.

Applying for an Exemption Certificate

Once students have completed their AS and A Levels with the required subjects and grades, the next step is to apply for an exemption certificate through the South African Matriculation Board. Here’s how:

Step 1: Submit Your Cambridge Results

Upon receiving your final AS and A Level results, you need to submit certified copies to the Matriculation Board for assessment. It’s essential to ensure all documents are certified and accurate to prevent any delays.

Step 2: Complete the Exemption Application Form

The Matriculation Board provides an exemption application form on its official website. Complete this form accurately, providing all requested information about your Cambridge qualifications, chosen subjects, and grades.

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

An application fee is required for the exemption process. Ensure that you have the necessary funds ready and complete payment according to the instructions provided by the Matriculation Board.

Step 4: Await Confirmation

After submitting your application and paying the fee, you will receive confirmation from the Matriculation Board. This process may take several weeks, so it’s advisable to apply well before university application deadlines.

Challenges and Common Pitfalls in the Exemption Process

While the process is straightforward, some students encounter challenges along the way. Here are a few common issues and how to avoid them:

1. Incorrect Subject Combinations

Choosing subjects that don’t meet the Matriculation Board’s requirements can result in a denied exemption. To prevent this, students should consult an advisor or their tutors at Apex Academic Centre to ensure their subject combinations align with South African standards.

2. Missing Documents

Applications must include certified copies of AS and A Level certificates. Failing to submit these or sending unofficial documents can delay or nullify your application. Always double-check that all documents are complete and certified before submission.

3. Application Timing

Timing is crucial. University application deadlines often fall shortly after the release of Cambridge results, so it’s essential to plan the exemption application process in advance. Apex Academic Centre assists students by providing guidance on deadlines, documentation, and application steps to ensure a smooth transition.