Career Options After Matric: Study, Work or Train?

Finishing matric opens several paths. There is no single right answer — the best choice depends on your results, finances, interests and the opportunities available near you.

1. University

A degree is required for professions such as medicine, engineering, law, accounting (CA route) and teaching. Admission depends on your matric results and the Admission Point Score (APS) each university sets.

Funding: NSFAS funds qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges, and many companies and trusts offer bursaries.

2. TVET colleges

Technical and Vocational Education and Training colleges offer practical qualifications — N-courses (N1–N6) and National Certificate (Vocational) programmes — in fields such as electrical engineering, business studies, hospitality and IT. They are often more affordable and lead directly to work or apprenticeships.

3. Learnerships

Learnerships combine training and work experience, pay a stipend and lead to an NQF-registered qualification. They are a strong option if you want to earn while you learn.

4. Apprenticeships and trades

Artisans — electricians, plumbers, fitters, welders, diesel mechanics — are in demand. An apprenticeship prepares you for a trade test.

5. Entering the job market directly

Many entry-level jobs require only matric: call centres, retail, admin and logistics. Working while studying part-time is also an option.

How to choose

• Look at your subjects and results honestly.
• Talk to people working in careers you are interested in.
• Consider cost, distance and funding.
• Keep options open: apply to more than one path at the same time.