Completing Matric via distance learning can be a life-changing step. If you didn’t finish school or want to improve your results, distance learning makes it possible. You can study at your own pace while still working or caring for family.
Institutions like Skills Academy, Matric College, and Bellview Institute all provide programmes. This guide explains how distance Matric works, what you need, and how to succeed.
A practical first step is Bellview’s Adult Matric distance learning programme.
What Does Distance Matric Mean?
Distance learning means studying without going to a traditional school every day. Instead, you receive textbooks, guides, and past papers. You work through them at home and then write your exams at an approved centre.
The Matric you earn through distance study — called the Amended Senior Certificate (Adult Matric) — is the same as the one awarded at schools. Employers, colleges, and universities recognise it.
This means you don’t have to worry about your certificate being “different.” Once you pass, it carries the same value and opens the same opportunities.
Who Qualifies for Distance Matric?
To register, you need:
- To be 21 years or older when you write exams.
- A Grade 9 certificate or equivalent.
- The ability to read and write English.
You don’t need Grade 11 or 12 to start. If you already have a Matric but want better marks, you can choose Matric upgrade.
How Long Will It Take?
- Adult Matric: 12–36 months depending on your pace.
- Matric Upgrade: Often 12 months or less.
- Flexible scheduling lets you finish faster if you focus on fewer subjects at a time.
Choosing Your Subjects
When choosing, think carefully about your future plans. If you want to work in healthcare, Life Sciences may be important. If you want to study business or accounting later, then Maths Literacy and Business Studies may help.
Compulsory
- Home Language
- First Additional Language
- Maths or Maths Literacy
Electives (choose three):
- Business Studies
- Accounting
- Life Sciences
- Physical Science
- History
- Geography
Your choice of subjects is one of the most important steps, as it can influence your career and study options after you complete your certificate.
Step-by-Step: How to Complete Matric via Distance Study
- Decide your goal – full Matric or upgrading subjects.
- Pick a trusted college – such as Skills Academy, Matric College, or Bellview Institute.
- Register – submit your ID, Grade 9 certificate, and personal details.
- Get your study materials – books, guides, and past papers are delivered.
- Study regularly – plan a schedule and stick to it.
- Register for exams – with the Department of Basic Education during the annual window (commonly late-year for the next May/June exams). Always check the current DBE dates before you plan.
- Write exams – held in May/June.
- Receive your certificate – the Amended Senior Certificate is equivalent to a school Matric.
College Comparison: Adult Matric Options
Here’s a simple breakdown of what each college offers:
College | Key Feature |
Flexible registration, Adult Matric and upgrades | |
Partnered with Skills Academy, focus on adult learners | |
Structured Adult Matric programme, multiple study timelines |
This shows that all three institutions are credible, but each has slight differences in structure and style.
Where to study
You can study Adult Matric via distance learning through Bellview, Matric College, or Skills Academy. Compare programme timelines and support to find your best fit.
Tips for Success
- Follow a weekly timetable to stay on track.
- Use past exam papers to practise.
- Break your work into small goals instead of cramming.
- Stay motivated by keeping your career goal in mind.
- Ask for help when needed — don’t struggle in silence.
You can complete Matric via distance study, no matter how long it’s been since you left school. With determination and planning, you’ll earn a certificate that opens doors to jobs and further education.
Explore the programmes offered by Skills Academy, Matric College, and Bellview Institute. Choose the path that suits your lifestyle, register, and take your next step toward a brighter future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can. As long as you are 21 years or older and have a Grade 9 certificate, you qualify to register. This makes it possible for adults who left school early to complete their Matric.
You need to pass six subjects in total. You must get at least 40% in your home language and two other subjects. For the rest, you need at least 30% to earn your certificate.
Yes, the Adult Matric certificate is valid. It has the same value as a school Matric. Employers, colleges, and universities all accept it.
Yes, you can. If you focus and study more hours, you can complete a Matric Upgrade in less than 12 months. For full Adult Matric, you may finish sooner by taking fewer subjects at a time.
The best college depends on your needs. You should compare options like cost, flexibility, and study style. Skills Academy, Matric College, and Bellview all offer trusted programmes.
Author: Devonetia Michels