VerifiedNo. Unisa does not offer qualifications at NQF Level 4. Its undergraduate qualifications start at NQF Level 5 with higher certificates, according to Unisa’s page on credits, modules and NQF levels. NQF Level 4 is the level of a matric certificate, and at Unisa it is what you need to get in, not something you study.
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Where NQF Level 4 fits
| NQF level | Examples | Offered by |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | National Senior Certificate (matric), Senior Certificate, NC(V) Level 4 | Schools, the Department of Basic Education, TVET colleges |
| 5 | Higher certificate (120 credits) | Unisa and other universities |
| 6 | Diploma (240 or 360 credits), advanced certificate | Unisa and other universities |
| 7 | Bachelor’s degree, advanced diploma | Universities |
How NQF Level 4 is used at Unisa
- Higher certificates need a matric-level (NQF 4) qualification plus the programme’s own requirements.
- Unisa’s short learning programmes often list “a Senior Certificate or an equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification” as the entry requirement.
- A 48-credit certificate at NQF Level 4 or higher from another accredited institution can count towards re-admission under Unisa’s academic progression rules.
If you do not have an NQF Level 4 qualification yet
- Finish or improve your matric through the Department of Basic Education. See where to rewrite matric exams.
- Study the NC(V) at a public TVET college, which reaches NQF Level 4 at Level 4. See what the NC(V) is.
- Read what Unisa options exist without matric.
Websites that list “Unisa NQF Level 4 courses” are describing entry requirements or other institutions’ qualifications. Check any course on unisa.ac.za before you pay.
Next step up: Unisa NQF Level 5 courses and higher certificates and their requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Does Unisa have NQF Level 4 qualifications?
No. Unisa’s qualifications start at NQF Level 5 (higher certificates).
Is matric NQF Level 4?
Yes. The National Senior Certificate sits at NQF Level 4.
What is the lowest qualification I can study at Unisa?
A higher certificate: 120 credits at NQF Level 5.