What You Can Do After Dropping Out Of School (South Africa)

What You Can Do After Dropping Out Of School (South Africa)

Dropped Out of School? Here’s What You Can Do at Every Age

If you dropped out of school — whether in Grade 9, 10, 11 or even Grade 12 — you are not alone, and you are not stuck. In South Africa, thousands of young people leave school early every year for different reasons: family issues, financial pressure, mental health, learning difficulties, or just life getting in the way.

The good news? There are real alternatives and opportunities available — no matter your age.

In this post, we’ll break down what you can do after dropping out and the paths open to you from age 15 to 35+. Whether your goal is to go back to school, learn a skill, or build a career, there’s something for you here.

📌 First Things First: Take a Breath

Dropping out does not mean you failed. You are not your certificate. In fact, many successful people — entrepreneurs, creatives, and even doctors — have taken non-traditional routes to get where they are.

This is your chance to choose your path intentionally.

 

If You’re Under 21: You Still Have Time to Complete School

➡️ Option 1: Go Back to High School

If you left school recently and are under 21, you may still qualify to re-enroll at a public school. Speak to your local district office or school principal to find out what’s possible.

➡️ Option 2: Enroll in a Private or Online School

You can complete Grade 10–12 through a registered online school or distance learning provider. This allows you to study at your own pace and from home.

Popular providers:
- Brainline
- Impak
- CambriLearn

If You’re Over 21: You Can Write Adult Matric or Do the GED

➡️ Option 1: Senior Certificate (Adult Matric)

If you’re 21 or older, you can write the Senior Certificate (SC) exams, which are the same as matric exams, just for adults.

Learn more:
- Department of Basic Education
- Skills Academy: Adult Matric

➡️ Option 2: Get a GED® and Apply for Matric Exemption

The GED® is an international high school equivalent you can study for and write online. It’s great for flexible learning, and you can apply for a Matric Exemption to qualify for university.

Useful links:
- GED South Africa
- Official GED Website

If You’re 16–35: Learn a Skill and Earn

➡️ Option 1: Study at a TVET College

You don’t need matric to start a vocational qualification. TVET colleges offer courses in hospitality, IT, welding, plumbing, and more.

Start here:
- Find a TVET College

➡️ Option 2: Join a Learnership or Internship

Many SETA-accredited programs offer work + study packages and pay you a stipend while you learn.

Where to look:
- National Internships Portal
- Skills Portal

➡️ Option 3: Learn Online for Free

Gain digital, design, business or coding skills from free platforms:

No Matric? You Can Still Get a Job

There are many job options that don’t require matric, especially if you have experience or can show initiative. These include:

  • Sales and call centres
  • Retail or customer service
  • Delivery or driver roles
  • Freelance work: design, admin, writing
  • Entrepreneurship: small businesses or side hustles

Read next:
Side Hustles You Can Start Without Matric

What If You’re Just Not Ready?

If you’re dealing with mental health issues, burnout, or trauma, your first step might not be school or work — and that’s okay. Here are some resources that offer free mental health support in South Africa:

Final Words: You Are Still Powerful

Whether you’re 17 or 35, dropped out in Grade 9 or failed matric twice — it’s never too late to restart. The key is to stop comparing your path to others and focus on where you want to go next.

You are not behind. You are rebuilding. And that takes courage.

Stick with us on inamandla.com as we share more guides, success stories, and tools to help you rise on your own terms.

 

Need help choosing your next step?
DM us on Instagram or send a message via our Contact Page — we’re always happy to guide you forward.

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