As you prepare for your final year of school, the question of “what it takes to earn a Bachelor’s Pass” becomes one of the most important.
If you hope to continue to a university degree course in South Africa, understanding the requirements for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Bachelor’s pass endorsement is essential.
This article will walk you through what a Bachelor Pass means, what you must achieve under current regulations (as these carry forward into 2026), how this differs from other qualification levels, and smart strategies to help you reach this goal.
What is a Bachelor Pass (Degree Endorsement)?
A Bachelor Pass (sometimes called a “university pass”) on the NSC is the endorsement that shows you meet the minimum statutory academic standard to apply for a bachelor’s degree programme at a university or university of technology.
Achieving this endorsement does not guarantee admission, but it is the first major hurdle a matriculant must cross. According to the Department of Basic Education (DBE), a Bachelor Pass means the candidate is “eligible to apply for admission to a bachelor’s degree study”.
In other words: if you’re aiming at longer academic pathways (medicine, engineering, BCom, etc.), the Bachelor Pass is your target. It signals to universities that your matric results meet the benchmark standard.
The Minimum Requirements for a Bachelor’s Pass
While the rules have been relatively stable in recent years, it’s vital to review them ahead of 2026 so you know exactly what you must aim for. As of recent guidelines, to achieve the Bachelor Pass endorsement, you must meet the following criteria:
- Obtain at least 40% in your Home Language (compulsory).
- Achieve at least 50% in four other subjects (excluding Life Orientation). These subjects count toward your academic credentials for a bachelor’s degree.
- Attain at least 30% in your Language of Learning and Teaching (LOLT) at the higher‑education institution (if applicable) and at least 30% in one other subject.
- Pass at least six out of your seven subjects. In other words, you must not fail more than one subject.
Keep in mind: “pass” means you have met the criteria for that subject level (e.g., 40%, 50% etc). The 30% figure that circulates is not a blanket pass mark for matric overall. The DBE has clarified: “30% is not a pass mark in this country.”
Another key note: While earlier days had a “designated subject list” (special subjects required for university entrance), that list was revoked in 2018. Now the requirement is four 20‑credit NSC subjects at 50% or more (excluding Life Orientation) for the Bachelor Pass.
Why These Requirements Matter for 2026
As you approach your final year (2026), the requirements outlined above remain your foundational target. Universities and admission systems still refer to the NSC with a Bachelor Pass as the statutory gateway into degree studies.
Any drop off or weakness in meeting these minimums could limit your options, or force you into a Diploma or Higher Certificate pathway instead.
Moreover, the number of learners achieving Bachelor‑Pass endorsements has been rising. For example, in the Class of 2024, nearly half (47.8%) of candidates qualified for the Bachelor‑Pass standard.
This means competition is increasing, and the bar for university acceptance (especially for sought‑after degrees) may be higher than the minimum. So it’s prudent to exceed the minimum and aim for strong subject marks.
How the Bachelor Pass Differs From Other Endorsements
It helps to compare what a Bachelor Pass allows you to do vs the alternative endorsements:
- Diploma Pass: This endorsement qualifies a learner to apply for diploma programmes at universities or universities of technology. The requirements are somewhat lower than the Bachelor Pass (e.g., Home Language 40%, at least four other subjects 40%, at least 30% in LOLT, pass six of seven).
- Higher Certificate Pass: This is the most modest pass endorsement and opens routes to higher certificate programmes at institutions. It demands even lower thresholds (e.g., Home Language 40%, some subjects 40%, others 30%).
Thus, if your goal is a full 3‑ or 4‑year university degree, focusing on meeting and surpassing the Bachelor Pass requirements is the best strategy.
Smart Strategies to Achieve a Bachelor’s Pass in 2026
Here are practical, study‑and‑planning tips to help you meet the Bachelor Pass requirements and set yourself up for university readiness:
1. Prioritise your Home Language early
Since you must get at least 40% in your Home Language, view it as non‑negotiable. Frequent reading, writing, vocabulary drills, and asking for teacher feedback will help boost your chances.
2. Select your four major subjects wisely
These are the ones you need to hit 50% or more in. Choose subjects you are strong in, enjoy, and are aligned with any future degree you want. Your performance here counts heavily.
3. Manage the two remaining subjects
While you “only” need 30% in one other subject and pass six out of seven, treat all subjects as important; failing one could jeopardise your pass endorsement.
4. Understand the LOLT requirement
Make sure you know which language is your Language of Learning and Teaching (often English or Afrikaans), and ensure you meet the required minimum (30%) for that language as required by universities and institutions.
5. Aim higher than minimums
The minimums are just that, minimum. Universities often set higher entry requirements for competitive programmes (engineering, medical, actuarial science). Use the Bachelor Pass as your baseline and aim for strong marks beyond this.
6. Stay on top of your school performance from the start
Grades from earlier years, continuous assessments, and attitude to learning matter. Start early with study plans, time management, and targeted support in weaker areas.
7. Use past papers and exam‑style questions
Get familiar with exam formats, time management under pressure, and common trap questions. Reviewing past NSC papers gives you realistic practice.
8. Ask for help when needed
Don’t wait until the last minute. Use supporting classes, peer study groups, extra tutorials, and teacher advice. If one subject is dragging you down, tackle it early.
Common Myths and What to Avoid
- Myth: “You only need 30% overall to pass matric.” – This is false. The 30% mark applies only to certain components. The DBE explicitly states that an aggregate of 30% means failure.
- Myth: “Any seven subjects will do.” – While you take seven subjects, the nature of the subjects and the marks you get matter. Life Orientation is compulsory, but it does not count among the four 50% subjects for the Bachelor Pass.
- Myth: “If I get a Bachelor Pass, I’m guaranteed university acceptance.” – Not true. You’ve met the statutory minimum, but universities can require higher marks, subject‑specific performance, and application criteria. Make sure you check your chosen university’s requirements.
- Myth: “The designated subject list still applies.” – No; the designated subject list was revoked. Now, any 20‑credit subject (excluding Life Orientation) with 50% or more in four such subjects will suffice.
What This Means for Learners in 2026
If you are part of the Class of 2026, treat these requirements as your roadmap. The schooling system and higher education pathways hinge on the Bachelor Pass.
Achieving it keeps your options open: bachelor’s degrees, competitive programmes, international study opportunities, and more.
Also bear in mind: The education landscape is evolving. The DBE’s strategic plans show rising numbers of Bachelor Pass endorsements and a push to improve the quality of outcomes, especially in underprivileged areas.
This means the competition is increasing and the importance of performing well is greater than ever.
In summary, securing the Bachelor Pass under the NSC is about meeting defined minimums: 40% in Home Language, 50% in four other subjects, 30% in another, and passing six of your seven subjects.
But meeting these minimums should be your launchpad, not your ceiling. If you’re aiming for a rewarding university degree, use the Bachelor Pass as your base, then strive for strong marks across the board.
As you move through 2026, stay focused, plan, and use every support system you can access. Remember: your matric result is not just about getting the certificate, it’s about opening doors to your future.
Good luck on your journey!
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