What’s Next for Matrics Who Can’t Get Into Public Universities?

Every year, hundreds of thousands of South African matrics celebrate completing Grade 12 and passing their National Senior Certificate exams. But for many, the journey doesn’t end with their results—it’s just the start of a new challenge. With over 337,000 learners achieving a bachelor’s pass in 2024 and only 202,000 places available at public universities, the demand for spaces far outweighs the supply.

And it’s not just those with bachelor’s passes facing this issue. Matrics with a diploma or higher certificate pass also navigate a competitive landscape as they search for further study opportunities.

If you’re unsure about your next steps, don’t worry—you’re not alone and have options.

What Are the Alternatives?

Public universities aren’t the only route to higher education. Whether you’ve achieved a bachelor’s, diploma, or higher certificate pass, a private higher education institution, like The DaVinci Institute, offers pathways to help you achieve your goals.

Here’s why private higher education might work for you:

1. Study on Your Terms: At The DaVinci Institute, you don’t have to choose between studying and managing your responsibilities. Our online and distance learning programmes are flexible, allowing you to study at your own pace, wherever you are.
2. Practical, Real-World Learning: Our approach isn’t just about classroom theories. We focus on solving real-world problems, meaning you’ll gain skills you can use immediately in the workplace or your business.
3. Qualifications for Every Level: Whether you’re ready for a Higher Certificate, Bachelor’s degree, or even a Postgraduate programme, The DaVinci Institute has accredited qualifications tailored to your academic level and career ambitions.
4. Funding Options: While NSFAS funding is only available for public universities and TVET colleges, we work with partners like Student Hero to help you explore private funding options, such as loans and bursaries. We also offer flexible payment plans to help make private education more accessible.

NSFAS funding is only available for public universities and TVET colleges

Why Consider Private Education?

Private institutions like The Da Vinci Institute play a crucial role in South Africa’s education landscape, providing opportunities for students who may not have secured a place in public universities.

Here’s what sets The DaVinci Institute apart:

• Smaller Classes, More Support: At Da Vinci, you’re more than just a number. Our smaller classes mean your lecturers know your name and are there to help you every step of the way.
• Skills That Work in Real Life: Our TIPS™ Framework helps you learn about Technology, Innovation, People, and Systems—the four things that make businesses work. You’ll learn how to solve problems, manage people, and use technology to achieve your goals. These are the skills employers want, no matter where you work.
• Learn by Doing: At Da Vinci, you don’t just sit in lectures. You’ll work on real-world challenges—the same kinds of problems businesses deal with every day. For example, you could come up with ways to make a company run smoother or find new solutions for customer issues. This hands-on experience means you’ll graduate ready for the workplace.
• Study at Your Own Pace: Life doesn’t stop when you start studying, and we get that. Whether you’re working, helping at home, or need time for other responsibilities, our online and distance learning options let you study when it suits you.
• Programmes Built for the Job Market: We work closely with industry experts to make sure our programmes teach you the skills that are in demand right now. That means what you learn will actually help you get ahead in your career.

Private education is an investment in your future, offering practical skills and qualifications that employers value. Focusing on personalised learning and real-world experience prepares you for a successful career, ensuring long-term benefits beyond the classroom.

Don’t Lose Hope

If you didn’t secure a spot at a public university, it’s not the end of your journey. Whether you’ve earned a bachelor’s pass, a diploma pass, or a higher certificate pass, there’s a path forward. Private institutions like The Da Vinci Institute offer flexible, high-quality options to help you achieve your dreams.

Take the next step, explore your options, and keep moving forward.

Your future is waiting. Let’s co-create it together.