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Understanding the Cambridge Curriculum in
South Africa

The Cambridge Curriculum is an internationally recognised education system that offers students a flexible and challenging academic journey. It prepares learners for higher education in South Africa and abroad by emphasising critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent learning.

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The Cambridge Curriculum provides a world-class education with flexible learning paths tailored to individual strengths. It is an excellent choice for students aiming for university admission locally or abroad.

For more information, visit Cambridge International or contact us.

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Why Choose the Cambridge Curriculum?

  • Recognised worldwide for academic excellence.

  • Accepted by universities in South Africa and internationally.

  • Encourages active learning, metacognition, and skill development.

  • Provides a broad subject choice to cater to different career paths.

  • Access to an extensive range of teaching and learning resources.

  • Flexible structure allowing for customised learning experiences.

Matriculating with Cambridge in South Africa

In South Africa, students must complete specific subject combinations to achieve Matric Exemption (Bachelor’s Pass), which is required for university entry. Cambridge qualifications are aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF):

  • Grade 11 (IGCSE) – Equivalent to NQF Level 3

  • Grade 12 (AS Level) – Equivalent to NQF Level 4 (Matric)

  • Grade 13 (A Level) – Equivalent to NQF Level 5

Different subject combinations meet university entrance requirements. A first-language English subject is compulsory.

Cambridge Matric Exemption Options

Minimum subject combinations for exemption:

  • 3 IGCSE subjects (Grade C or higher) + 2 AS subjects (Grade E or higher)

  • 5 IGCSE subjects (Grade E or higher) + 2 AS subjects (Grade E or higher)

  • 3 IGCSE subjects (Grade C or higher) + 1 A-Level subject (Grade E or higher)

  • 1 IGCSE subject (Grade C or higher) + 3 A-Level subjects (Grade E or higher)

Students must select subjects from required group categories to qualify for exemption.

University & College Entry Requirements

Colleges & Universities of Technology
Accept Cambridge qualifications for certificates and diplomas (vocational pathways).

South African Universities
Require a Matric Exemption Certificate from USAF (Universities South Africa).

International Universities
Many require three A Levels, and some, like medical schools, may expect A or A grades* in specific subjects.

Each university and faculty has different subject requirements. For example, engineering and medical fields require both Physics and Chemistry at IGCSE or AS/A Level.

Exam Process & Cambridge Exam Centres

  • Exams are conducted at official Cambridge Exam Centres, which host but do not set the exams.

  • Registration opens in November for the May/June series and in June for the October/November series.

  • Exam sittings must follow USAF’s "Two Sitting Rule"—AS and A-Level exams must be completed within two years of writing IGCSE.

Exam Day Guidelines:

  • Candidates must arrive 30 minutes before the exam.

  • Only approved stationery and water in a transparent bottle are allowed.

  • No cellphones or smartwatches are permitted in the exam room.

Cambridge Grading & Results

  • IGCSE and AS/A Level results are released separately in January (for the November exams) and August (for the June exams).

  • Grade thresholds are adjusted based on exam difficulty to ensure fairness.

  • Students can apply for remarking or script returns (except for multiple-choice papers).

Certificates

  • Statement of Results: Available electronically for university applications.

  • Final Certificates: Issued 6–8 weeks after results and must be collected.

Cambridge Curriculum Pathway

  • Lower Secondary (Grades 7–9)

  • Upper Secondary (IGCSE, 18 months) – Equivalent to Grade 10 & 11

  • AS Level (18 months, Matric Equivalent, NQF 4)

  • A Level (12 months, NQF 5) – Required for top universities

Cambridge Curriculum Exit Options (After Completing AS or A Levels)

  • South African universities or colleges.

  • International universities.

  • Online study or vocational training.

Becoming a Cambridge Teacher

  • Teachers must be SACE-registered and hold a recognized teaching qualification.

  • No official "Cambridge Teaching Certificate" exists, but training in Cambridge assessment and classroom management is available.

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