Life after matric doesn’t have to mean university. In Gauteng and across South Africa, thousands of matriculants are choosing different paths. As the job market shifts, practical skills and real-world experience often matter more than degrees.
- The Reality for Matriculants in South Africa
- Why Consider Alternatives to Higher Education?
- TVET Colleges: Technical Training with Career Potential
- Learnerships: Earn While You Learn
- Apprenticeships: Skilled Trades That Pay
- Internships: Get Real-World Experience
- Entrepreneurship: Start Something of Your Own
- Online Courses: Flexible and Affordable Upskilling
- Community College and CET Centres
- Volunteering and Gap Years with Purpose
- Career Guidance and Support
- FAQs on Life After Matric
- Redefining Success After Matric
The Reality for Matriculants in South Africa
Every year, over 800,000 learners write their matric exams. Yet only a fraction enter university. According to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), only about 20% of matriculants gain university admission.
At the same time, youth unemployment remains alarmingly high. In 2023, the NEET (Not in Employment, Education or Training) rate for South Africans aged 15-24 was around 45%. This shows a gap between education and employment.
ALSO READ: How to Access Matric Results in 2026
Why Consider Alternatives to Higher Education?
There are many reasons matriculants look beyond university:
- High tuition costs and student debt
- Limited university spaces
- Desire to earn money sooner
- Passion for entrepreneurship or hands-on careers
Choosing an alternative doesn’t mean giving up. It means finding a route that fits your strengths, goals, and circumstances.
TVET Colleges: Technical Training with Career Potential
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges are an excellent post-matric option. These institutions offer practical courses in sectors like:
- Engineering and construction
- Hospitality and tourism
- IT and business administration
- Agriculture
TVET colleges are subsidised by the government, making them more affordable. According to DHET, over 500,000 students were enrolled in public TVET colleges in 2023.
“TVET qualifications are designed to align with job market needs,” says Dr. Blade Nzimande, Minister of Higher Education. “They play a vital role in addressing youth unemployment.”
Find accredited TVET colleges here: DHET List of Public Colleges
Learnerships: Earn While You Learn
A learnership is a structured work-based learning programme. It combines classroom learning with practical work experience.
Learnerships are available in fields such as:
- Banking and finance
- Digital marketing
- Plumbing and electrical work
- Health and safety
These programmes usually run for 12 months and include a stipend. They are managed by SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities).
Apprenticeships: Skilled Trades That Pay
Apprenticeships focus on skilled trades that are always in demand. These include:
- Welding
- Motor mechanics
- Carpentry
- Fitting and turning
In South Africa, apprenticeships are backed by industry bodies and often lead to full-time work.
Internships: Get Real-World Experience
Internships help young people build professional skills and networks. Many companies offer internships to matriculants, especially in administration and customer service roles.
Internships may be unpaid or offer a basic stipend, but they boost employability. They’re a good stepping stone into the world of work.
Entrepreneurship: Start Something of Your Own
For many matriculants, starting a business is a powerful alternative. South Africa has a growing ecosystem for youth entrepreneurship.
Popular startup ideas include:
- Online retail or dropshipping
- Mobile car washes or cleaning services
- Catering or baking businesses
- Social media management
The NYDA (National Youth Development Agency) offers grants and business training.
Apply here: NYDA Grants for Youth Entrepreneurs
Online Courses: Flexible and Affordable Upskilling
Online learning platforms offer short, accredited courses that build real-world skills. Sites like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy are popular.
In South Africa, platforms like the University of Cape Town Online High School also offer bridging courses and career development programmes.
Explore options: UCT Online Short Courses
Community College and CET Centres
Community Education and Training (CET) colleges offer adult learning and skills training. These are ideal for those who didn’t pass matric or want to re-enter learning.
They provide:
- Foundational learning
- Artisan skills training
- Life skills and entrepreneurship
Volunteering and Gap Years with Purpose
A structured gap year can include volunteering, travel, or work. Programmes like GVI, SAFSA, and LoveLife offer youth opportunities to develop leadership and soft skills.
Gap years are ideal for those unsure about their next step.
Career Guidance and Support
Life after matric can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, there are services to help:
- Department of Employment and Labour: Career counselling and job readiness training
- Khetha Career Services: Government-backed career advice
- SAYouth: Jobs, internships and training
FAQs on Life After Matric
Can I still succeed without a degree?
Yes. Many sectors value skills and experience over formal qualifications.
What if I failed matric?
You can rewrite or explore CET colleges and bridging programmes.
Redefining Success After Matric
Life after matric is not one-size-fits-all. While university works for some, there are many valuable alternatives to higher education. From learnerships to starting your own business, the opportunities are real and growing.
By choosing a path that fits your interests and strengths, you can build a meaningful, rewarding career—without needing a university degree.
Stay informed. Stay skilled. Your future starts now.
