The South African Qualifications Authority is responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). Ensuring that your qualification is accredited is crucial for employment and further studies.
How to Check if Your Qualification is Accredited by SAQA
This guide provides a step-by-step approach to checking if your qualification is recognized by SAQA.
1. Understand SAQA Accreditation
SAQA ensures that qualifications and providers are registered and meet national education standards. Accredited qualifications appear on the NQF, ensuring they are recognized in South Africa. An accredited qualification means it is quality assured and meets national and industry-specific requirements.
2. Visit the SAQA Website
The official website provides a database where you can check if your qualification is registered.
- Go to www.saqa.org.za
- Look for the “Qualifications and Part Qualifications” search tool.
3. Search for Your Qualification
Using the database:
- Enter the qualification title or SAQA ID number.
- Use relevant keywords if you are unsure of the exact title.
- Click “Search” to find matching qualifications.
The database will provide information such as the qualification title, SAQA ID, NQF level, registration start and end dates, and the accredited provider offering the qualification.
4. Verify the Qualification Details
Once you locate your qualification, check:
- SAQA ID number
- NQF level
- Qualification type (e.g., diploma, degree, certificate)
- Accredited training provider or institution
If your qualification does not appear in the database, it may not be accredited, or it may be listed under a different title.
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5. Check If the Institution Is Registered
If you cannot find your qualification, check if the institution offering it is registered:
- Visit the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) website at www.dhet.gov.za
- Search for the institution’s accreditation status.
- Institutions offering higher education qualifications must be registered with DHET to operate legally in South Africa.
6. Confirm With the Relevant Quality Council
Qualifications are overseen by different quality councils under the organization:
- Umalusi (for school and TVET college qualifications)
- Council on Higher Education (CHE) (for university qualifications)
- Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) (for occupational qualifications)
Each council maintains a list of accredited qualifications and training providers. Check their respective websites to verify accreditation.
7. Contact the Organization Directly
If you cannot find your qualification online, contact the organization for verification:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: +27 12 431 5000
- Office Address: 1067 Arcadia Street, Hatfield, Pretoria
8. Be Cautious of Bogus Institutions
Some institutions offer non-accredited qualifications. Warning signs include:
- No ID for the qualification
- No registration with DHET or relevant councils
- Promises of “quick” or “guaranteed” degrees
- Institutions claiming international accreditation but lacking SAQA recognition
Ensure you verify all claims by checking official databases.
9. International Qualifications
If you obtained a qualification outside South Africa, the organization provides evaluation services to determine its equivalence on the NQF.
To apply for foreign qualification evaluation:
- Visit the website and navigate to “Foreign Qualifications Evaluation.”
- Submit an application along with certified copies of academic records.
- Pay the required evaluation fee.
- Wait for an official evaluation report stating the NQF equivalence of your qualification.
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10. Why Accreditation Matters
Ensuring your qualification is accredited is essential because:
- Employers recognize accredited qualifications, increasing job opportunities.
- Accredited qualifications allow for further study at reputable institutions.
- You avoid wasting time and money on illegitimate programs.
- Government and regulatory bodies require accredited qualifications for licensing in certain professions.
Verifying your qualification’s accreditation ensures its credibility for employment and further studies. Always cross-check qualifications using official SAQA and DHET platforms to avoid fraudulent institutions. If in doubt, reach out to the organization or the relevant quality council for assistance.
