Plans for Life After School (Grade 12 NSC Matric Life Orientation): Revision Notes
Plans for Life After School
Getting ready for your future
By now, you should have developed clear plans for what you want to do after finishing school. This is an exciting time when you can start turning your dreams into reality! However, success requires careful preparation and organisation. You need to have all the right documents ready, understand admission requirements, know about funding options, and keep track of important deadlines.
Remember what you've already learned about your future plans, including your personal lifestyle goals, reasons for obtaining your NSC certificate, and the skills you need for taking action on your career choices. Now it's time to put everything together and make it happen.
Starting your post-school planning early gives you a significant advantage. The more time you have to prepare, the better your chances of success in securing admission and funding for your chosen path.
Organising your portfolio and essential records
One of the most important steps in preparing for life after school is getting your documentation organised. Think of your portfolio as your "future toolkit" - it contains everything you need to apply for further studies or jobs.
Essential documents you need
Your portfolio must include certain key documents that institutions and employers will require. Make sure you have stamped or certified copies of your academic results - you'll need four copies of either your Grade 11 final results or your Grade 12 June/September results. Don't wait until the last minute to get these, as the certification process can take time.
You'll also need references or testimonials from two teachers who know your work well. Choose teachers from subjects related to your intended field of study, or those who can speak positively about your character and work ethic. Ask them well in advance and provide them with information about what you're applying for.
Critical Portfolio Timing: Start gathering your documents at least 3-4 months before application deadlines. Certification processes can take weeks, and teachers need adequate time to write quality references. Don't let poor timing sabotage your applications!
Keep all your documents in clearly labelled envelopes or folders. This organisation will save you time and stress when you need to submit applications quickly.
Tracking your correspondence
Communication with higher education institutions (HEIs) and potential employers is crucial. Use a tracking system to record when you sent applications, when you received responses, and what follow-up actions are needed. This organised approach ensures nothing falls through the cracks and demonstrates your professionalism.
Create a simple spreadsheet or use a notebook to track all your applications. Include columns for institution name, application date, required documents, submission deadline, and follow-up dates. This system will keep you organised and help you spot any missed opportunities.
Understanding admission requirements
Different types of qualifications have different entry requirements. Understanding these early will help you focus your efforts and make realistic choices about where to apply.
Qualification levels explained
Bachelor's Degree: This is typically a three or four-year university qualification. You need strong academic results, including at least 40% in one official language at home language level, plus good marks in four other subjects from the designated list.
Diploma: Usually takes two to three years and focuses on practical skills for specific careers. The requirements are slightly lower than for degrees, but you still need solid academic performance.
Higher Certificate: A shorter qualification (usually one year) that provides foundational knowledge and skills. This can be a good starting point if your marks aren't quite high enough for other options, and you can often use it as a stepping stone to further studies.
The grade requirements show specific percentage ranges you need to achieve. For example, a grade 5 represents 60-69%, grade 6 is 70-79%, and grade 7 is 80-100%. Different courses require different combinations of these grades in specific subjects like mathematics, physical science, and languages.
Worked Example: Understanding APS Calculations
Step 1: Identify your best 6 subjects (including compulsory languages)
Step 2: Convert each percentage to the grade scale
- 80-100% = Grade 7 (7 points)
- 70-79% = Grade 6 (6 points)
- 60-69% = Grade 5 (5 points)
- 50-59% = Grade 4 (4 points)
Step 3: Add up all grade points for your APS score
Example: If you achieved 75%, 68%, 72%, 65%, 80%, 70% in your best 6 subjects: APS = 6 + 5 + 6 + 5 + 7 + 6 = 35 points
Additional requirements to consider
Many courses have extra requirements beyond just your NSC results. These might include:
- Minimum marks in specific subjects: For example, engineering courses often require high marks in mathematics and physical science
- Selection tests: Some institutions use their own tests to assess applicants
- Interviews: Particularly common for competitive programmes
- Portfolios: Creative courses may require examples of your work
- Medical or fitness tests: Required for certain fields like teaching or nursing
Remember that meeting minimum requirements doesn't guarantee admission, especially for popular courses with limited spaces. Aim to exceed the minimum requirements wherever possible.
Application deadlines matter
Different institutions and faculties have different closing dates for applications. Some deadlines are as early as July, while others extend into September. Missing a deadline usually means waiting another full year before you can apply again, so mark these dates clearly in your calendar and apply early.
Deadline Reality Check: Late applications are rarely accepted, and when they are, you're competing for far fewer available spaces. Missing a deadline could mean losing an entire year of your life. Apply early to avoid this costly mistake!
Late applications are rarely accepted, and when they are, you're competing for far fewer available spaces.
Funding your studies
The cost of tertiary education can seem overwhelming, but there are many funding options available. The key is to research thoroughly and apply for multiple sources of funding.
Types of financial assistance
Scholarships: These are awards given to outstanding students by various trusts, organisations, and institutions. They're usually based on academic merit and don't need to be repaid.
Merit awards: Universities often give these to South African citizens who achieved excellent NSC results. The better your marks, the more financial support you may receive.
Bursaries: These can come from universities, government departments, companies, or organisations. Some require you to work for the sponsor after graduation, while others are given freely.
NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): This government programme provides loans that can become bursaries if you perform well academically. You only start repaying when you earn R30,000 or more per year.
Sport bursaries: Available for talented athletes who have achieved at least provincial colours in their sport.
Work-study programmes: These allow you to work part-time on campus while studying, helping to cover some of your expenses.
Company and employer bursaries: Many organisations offer bursaries to employees and their dependents. Ask your parents or guardians about what might be available through their workplaces.
Understanding NSFAS: NSFAS provides loans that can be converted into bursaries if you do well - you start to repay this loan only when you earn R30,000 or more a year. This makes it a low-risk way to fund your education, especially if you're committed to academic success.
Research and application strategy
Don't rely on just one source of funding. Apply to multiple schemes to increase your chances of success. Each type of funding has different requirements, obligations, and application processes. Some require excellent academic performance, others focus on financial need, and some combine both criteria.
Start researching early and make note of application deadlines, required documents, and any special conditions. Some funding requires you to work for the sponsor after graduation, while others have no strings attached.
Funding Strategy Tip: Cast a wide net when applying for funding. Apply to at least 5-10 different funding sources to maximise your chances. Each application is an investment in your future, so treat the process seriously and professionally.
Useful resources include university financial aid offices, government websites, and platforms like www.gostudy.mobi where you can search for HEIs, bursaries, and career information.
Practical tips for success
Stay organised and proactive
Understanding the importance of organisation cannot be overstated. Keep multiple copies of all important documents and store them safely. Create a calendar with all application deadlines and set reminders well in advance. Follow up on applications and correspondence professionally - this shows maturity and genuine interest.
Most importantly, apply early rather than waiting until deadlines approach. Early applications often receive more attention and demonstrate your commitment.
Be realistic but ambitious
While it's important to dream big, you also need to be practical. Apply to institutions that match your academic performance and have realistic backup options in case your first choice doesn't work out. Consider that you can start with a certificate or diploma and upgrade later - there are multiple pathways to reach your career goals.
Multiple Pathways to Success: Remember that education is not a race. Starting with a higher certificate and progressing to a diploma and then a degree is a valid and often successful approach. Focus on building a strong foundation rather than rushing into something you're not ready for.
Prepare thoroughly
Research your chosen institutions and courses carefully. Understand not just the admission requirements, but also the culture, location, and support services available. Prepare for possible interviews or selection tests by practising and researching common questions.
Ensure your application documents are complete and professional. Ask for help from teachers, counsellors, or family when needed - there's no shame in seeking guidance during this important process.
Key Points to Remember:
- Get organised early - Start preparing your portfolio and documents well before you need them
- Understand requirements - Research the specific academic and other requirements for your chosen courses and institutions
- Apply for multiple funding options - Don't rely on just one source of financial support
- Meet deadlines - Missing application deadlines usually means waiting a full year to try again
- Stay proactive - Follow up on applications and keep track of all your correspondence professionally