Your Questions. Answered
What does GED® stand for?
GED® stands for General Educational Development. It’s an internationally recognised qualification that proves you have the same knowledge and skills as someone who completed Grade 12 / Matric. Think of it as an alternative route to the same destination.
Is the GED® the same as Matric?
Not exactly the same, but it carries equivalent weight. In South Africa, SAQA (the South African Qualifications Authority) has evaluated the GED® and placed it at NQF Level 4 — the same level as a National Senior Certificate (Matric). So for most practical purposes, yes, it is treated as equivalent.
Is the GED® recognised in South Africa?
Yes! SAQA has officially evaluated and recognised the GED® at NQF Level 4, which is the same level as Matric. This means South African employers, colleges, and universities can officially recognise it as a valid qualification.
Is the GED® a South African qualification or an American one?
It originated in the USA, but it is an internationally recognised qualification. SAQA’s evaluation means it has been officially assessed and given a formal standing within South Africa’s National Qualifications Framework (NQF). Many South Africans have used it to unlock opportunities both locally and abroad.
Do I need to be a South African citizen to write the GED® in South Africa?
No, you don’t have to be a citizen. You do, however, need to provide valid identification. Acceptable ID documents typically include a South African ID, a valid passport, or another form of government-issued ID. Check with your testing centre for their specific requirements.
What do I need to bring on the day of the exam?
You’ll typically need:
- A valid, government-issued photo ID (SA ID, passport, or driver’s licence)
- Your exam registration confirmation
- Any approved materials (the testing centre will tell you exactly what’s allowed)
You generally cannot bring notes, textbooks, or your phone into the exam room.
Are there any additional fees I should know about?
Some testing centres may charge an additional facility fee on top of the exam fee. Always ask the testing centre upfront about any extra costs so there are no surprises on the day.
Who in South Africa officially recognises the GED®?
SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority) has evaluated the GED® and placed it at NQF Level 4. This is the official recognition that gives the GED® its standing in South Africa. Beyond SAQA, individual employers, universities, and colleges make their own decisions about accepting it.
Do I need to get my GED® evaluated by SAQA separately?
The GED® has already been evaluated by SAQA as a qualification type. However, if a specific employer or institution requires a SAQA foreign qualification evaluation for you personally, you may need to apply for one. This is a separate process and has a fee. Your testing centre or a local education advisor can guide you through this if needed.
Can the GED® help me if I want to emigrate to another country?
Yes, particularly if you’re looking at the USA, Canada, or other English-speaking countries. In the USA, the GED® is universally recognised. For other destinations, you would need to check the specific country’s qualification recognition policies. Having a GED® certainly strengthens your profile internationally.
Can I use the GED® to apply to TVET Colleges in South Africa?
Yes, in most cases. TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) Colleges generally accept NQF Level 4 qualifications for entry into their programmes. The GED® should qualify. Confirm with the specific TVET College you’re applying to.
Will the GED® help me get a job in South Africa?
Yes. For jobs that require Matric as a minimum qualification, the GED® at NQF Level 4 should serve the same purpose. You may need to briefly explain what the GED® is to some employers who aren’t familiar with it yet — but having your SAQA evaluation details on hand makes this easy.
What careers can the GED® help me access?
The GED® opens the same doors as Matric for entry-level requirements. From there, it’s about what you build on top of it. With a GED®, you can apply for jobs requiring a Grade 12, enrol in diplomas and degree programmes, access learnerships, and pursue professional certifications. The GED® is your starting point — your career is yours to build.
Are there GED® prep classes available in South Africa?
We offer GED® preparation classes. WhatsApp us, we will be able to point you in the right direction.
How long does it take to prepare for the GED®?
This varies from person to person. If you have a solid Grade 10–11 foundation, you might be ready in 2–4 months of consistent study per subject. If you need to build from scratch, give yourself 6–12 months. There’s no rush — study until you feel genuinely ready.
Why would someone in South Africa choose the GED® over writing Matric?
There are lots of reasons! Some people left school before completing Grade 12 and don’t want to go back to a traditional classroom. Others found the Matric system didn’t suit their learning style. Some adults are balancing work and family and need flexibility. The GED® allows you to study at your own pace and write each subject separately, which makes it much more manageable for many people.
Is the GED® written in English?
Yes. All four GED® subjects are written in English. This is important to keep in mind if English is your second or third language — you may want to spend extra time on the Language Arts section.
Can the GED® open doors internationally, not just in South Africa?
Absolutely. In the United States, virtually every employer, college, and university accepts the GED®. It’s also increasingly recognised in Canada, the UK, Australia, and many other countries. If you’re dreaming of studying or working abroad one day, the GED® is a solid foundation.
Can I write the GED® if I have a disability?
Yes. The GED® testing programme offers accommodations for people with documented disabilities. These can include extra time, a separate testing room, larger print, and other adjustments. You’ll need to apply for accommodations in advance and provide supporting documentation. Contact your testing centre early to get the process started.
Can someone who dropped out of school many years ago still write the GED®?
Absolutely. In fact, this is exactly who the GED® was designed for. Whether you left school 2 years ago or 20 years ago, you can prepare and write the GED® at any point. Many people find that life experience actually helps them understand the content better.
Can I reschedule or cancel my exam?
Yes, you can reschedule or cancel through your MyGED® account on ged.com. However, there are time limits and potential fees involved, depending on how close to the exam date you make changes. Always read the rescheduling policy carefully when you register.
What does NQF Level 4 mean?
The National Qualifications Framework (NQF) is South Africa’s system for ranking qualifications by level. NQF Level 4 is the level of a National Senior Certificate (Matric / Grade 12 pass). Sitting at NQF Level 4 means the GED® is officially on par with Matric in terms of the framework.
Will all South African employers accept the GED®?
Most employers who require a Matric certificate should accept the GED® as an equivalent, given its NQF Level 4 status. In practice, some HR departments may be unfamiliar with the GED® and you may need to explain what it is. Having a SAQA evaluation letter or certificate alongside your GED® credential is very helpful in these situations.
Can I use the GED® to apply for a learnership or apprenticeship in South Africa?
Yes. Many learnerships and apprenticeships require at least a Grade 10 or Grade 12 (Matric) equivalent. The GED® at NQF Level 4 should meet these requirements. Always confirm with the specific learnership provider, as each programme sets its own entry criteria.
Can I use my GED® to apply to a South African university?
This depends on the university. Some South African universities will consider the GED® alongside other requirements. However, most universities require specific subject passes (like Maths or Physical Science) at certain levels. The GED® demonstrates Grade 12 equivalence, but universities may also look at your specific GED® subject scores. Always contact the admissions office of the university you’re interested in and ask directly.
Does the GED® qualify me for bursaries or student financial aid in South Africa?
It may. NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) supports South African students at public universities and TVET colleges. If the institution you’re accepted to is NSFAS-funded and the GED® is accepted for entry, you may qualify. Check NSFAS’s requirements and speak to the institution’s financial aid office.
Should I include my GED® on my CV?
Absolutely. List it clearly under your qualifications section. You can write it as:
“GED® (General Educational Development) — NQF Level 4 equivalent, SAQA recognised”
This gives employers all the context they need.
Can I get a trade or skilled job with the GED®?
Yes. Trades like plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, and others often require a Matric pass as a minimum to enter apprenticeship programmes. The GED® can fulfil this requirement, opening doors to well-paying, in-demand careers in the trades.
Are there free resources to help me study?
Absolutely. Here are some great free options:
- ged.com — official free study resources and sample questions
- Khan Academy (khanacademy.org) — excellent for Maths and Science
- YouTube — search for GED prep channels; there are hundreds of free tutorials
- GED Study Guide apps on your phone
Is the GED® harder than Matric?
It’s different rather than harder or easier. Some people find the GED® more manageable because it uses more analytical and reading-based questions rather than pure memorisation. Others find certain sections more challenging. The good news is that with the right preparation, most people can pass — especially if they study consistently.
Everything you need to know about the GED®, EduPak, and how we can help you succeed.