Cambridge International Examinations is the world’s largest provider of international education programs and qualifications for 5 to 19 year olds, and forms part of the University of Cambridge.

The Cambridge International Examinations are accepted by most South African Universities including but not limited to:

• University of Cape Town
• UNISA
• University of the Witwatersrand
• Rhodes University
• University of Stellenbosch
• University of Pretoria
• Tshwane University of Technology
• North-West University

• A curriculum for children aged 5 to 11
• Excellent preparation for secondary education
• Focuses on English, Mathematics and Science
• Tests show the progression of your child’s ability through primary education
• Certificate of Achievement for each child at the end of primary education
• Developed by the University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is one of the most recognised qualifications around the world. IGCSE courses are renowned for developing vital educational skills, including recall of knowledge, oral skills, problem-solving, initiative, teamwork and investigative skills. The resulting qualification provides a foundation for higher-level courses, such as A and AS Levels.

IGCSE caters for different levels of ability with a choice between core and extended papers in many subjects. The core curriculum is based on an overview of the subject and is suitable for students expected to achieve grades C to G. The extended curriculum is more challenging and designed for students who are expected to achieve grades A* to C. Grades achieved through either route have the same value.

IGCSE offers a flexible course of study that gives candidates the freedom to choose subjects that are right for them, whilst providing them with a broad knowledge base and lifelong skills.

Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Level represents the first half of a full A Level course and allows students to study a broader range of subjects without committing to doing a full A Level. You can choose to complete an AS Level examination, and then stop studying for that particular subject. Or you can gain an AS Level qualification, and then complete the remaining course of study to take the A Level assessment.

Cambridge AS Levels offer a flexible course of study that gives you the freedom to select the subjects that are right for you.

GCE Advanced (A) Level is one of the most recognised qualifications around the world. For over 50 years, A Levels have been accepted as proof of academic ability for entry to universities and institutes of higher education. A Levels are also important to employers who frequently demand A Levels as a condition of job entry.

Cambridge A Levels offer a flexible course of study that gives you the freedom to select the subjects that are right for you.

The Cambridge International Recognition Database is an online directory of worldwide organisations which have specifically provided us with formal written acceptance of Cambridge qualifications. Although the database is updated regularly, this is not an exhaustive list. There are many organisations not listed here which do accept Cambridge qualifications. The database is correct according to the information provided to us; however, we recommend checking with organisations directly for the most up-to-date information as regards entry requirements since these requirements are subject to change.

To see the list of institutions in South Africa that recognise the Cambridge qualifications:

Conditions and requirements to gain exemption for entry to South African public universities:

Applying for tertiary studies with the Cambridge International School Leaving Qualifications:

For more information on SAQA requirements:

We urge you to encourage your teachers to take advantage of all ACESA-related training and workshop events. Please visit this page regularly for updates on our latest Training and Workshop dates.

Please also notify ACESA of any particular issues your teachers would like training or workshops around, and we will undertake the appropriate research where necessary.