Matrics don’t delay, get your higher education applications out of the way

With about 30 days left before the start of the 2020 matric exams, the focus of Grade 12s is now firmly on the final preparation for this important milestone. However, it is also important they also take some time to finalise their higher education plans for next year, as the clock is ticking on closing dates for applications.

Peter Kriel, the general manager of The Independent Institute of Education, urged matriculants to start applying before it was too late. “Matrics cannot wait until they receive their results, currently scheduled for release on February 23 next year, before applying, as this will most likely mean they miss out on a space at their institution and for their qualification of choice as deadlines at many institutions are still in place,” he said.

“Beyond a later start to the higher education academic year, it is still not clear what else higher education will need to do in response to COVID-19 in 2021, but so many lessons have been learned that most institutions are feeling confident about navigating the year ahead.”

Kriel added the deadline for enrolments at many public and private institutions was only a month away, so matrics should be investigating their options and send in their applications without delay. “Particularly for full-time, contact undergraduate programmes, where there is much competition for a limited amount of space, prospective students need to make a commitment as soon as possible.”

At some institutions and for some qualifications, such as diplomas or higher certificate programmes, applications may remain open for longer, but even for these programmes applications close when capacity is reached. Some institutions may also have late registration options, or allow registration right up until the start of the academic year, but Kriel advised that it was best to secure one’s place timeously rather than gamble on space being available later.

“So use your study downtime to investigate prospective higher education institutions and courses that interest you,” he said. “It’ll provide a welcome and interesting break from revision, while also serving as a motivation to do your best when you hit the books again. We all need to focus on the future.”

He said those students who didn’t yet have a clear idea about what they wanted to study or where, should look at all the institutions that appealed to them, and then contact a student advisor on these campuses for guidance. “The focus today should be on studying towards a work-focused, real-world qualification, and there is a large number of new and emerging careers from which to choose. So don’t wait and see when it comes to next year.

“The logistics will fall in place, but you need to make your move soon to ensure a smooth continuation of your educational journey in 2021,” Kriel concluded.