Is the GED accepted by South African universities?

The honest position on GED recognition in South Africa: the USAf exemption rule after 2019, the SAQA evaluation at NQF Level 4, private institutions and study routes.

All guides · Reviewed 7 October 2026

Short answer: A GED obtained in South Africa after 2019 does not qualify for a university exemption from Universities South Africa (USAf), so it does not give direct entry to degree study at public universities. SAQA compares the GED to the National Senior Certificate at NQF Level 4, and some private institutions accept it. Always confirm in writing with the institution before you start.

Public universities and the USAf exemption

To study for a degree at a public South African university without a matric bachelor's pass, you normally need an exemption certificate from the Matriculation Board of Universities South Africa (USAf).

USAf's Matriculation Board states: do not apply for an exemption if you obtained the GED qualification in South Africa after 2019. GED South Africa confirms that the Foreign Conditional Exemption is no longer available to South African GED graduates.

So if your goal is a degree at a public university such as UCT, Wits, UP, Stellenbosch, UJ or Unisa, a new South African GED will not get you there on its own.

What SAQA says

The South African Qualifications Authority evaluates foreign qualifications. It has found the National Senior Certificate at NQF Level 4 to be the closest comparable qualification to the GED.

After you pass, you can apply to SAQA for a Certificate of Evaluation. This is useful for employers and for institutions that accept the GED. It is not the same thing as a USAf exemption.

Where the GED can take you

Private institutions. GED South Africa lists private institutions such as Boston City Campus, Stadio and AIE as accepting the GED for most of their qualifications. Entry rules change, so confirm with the institution.
Higher certificate first. Some students complete a Higher Certificate (NQF Level 5) and then apply for further study. Ask the institution and USAf whether this route works for the programme you want.
Study abroad. GED South Africa says the GED is accepted by nearly all universities in the United States and many elsewhere. Each university sets its own requirements.
Work. Many employers ask for a school-level qualification. A SAQA Certificate of Evaluation shows the level of your GED.

What to do before you pay for anything

Decide where you want to study or work.
Email that institution's admissions office and ask: do you accept a GED obtained in South Africa this year for this exact programme, and what scores or extra requirements apply?
Keep the written answer.
Only then choose between the GED, matric or another route.

We would rather you know this before you start than find out afterwards. If the GED fits your goal, you can try a free sample lesson to see how we teach.

Common questions

Can I go to university in South Africa with a GED?

Not directly to a public university for degree study if your GED was obtained in South Africa after 2019, because it does not qualify for a USAf exemption. Some private institutions accept the GED; confirm with the institution in writing.

Does Unisa accept the GED?

Unisa is a public university, and degree study there needs a matric bachelor's pass or a USAf exemption. A GED obtained in South Africa after 2019 does not qualify for that exemption. Ask Unisa directly about any other route for your programme.

Is the GED recognised by SAQA?

SAQA evaluates the GED and compares it to the National Senior Certificate at NQF Level 4. You can apply for a Certificate of Evaluation after passing.