What can I study at school?

Your subject choice in Grade 9 quietly decides which doors are open in Grade 12. Tap the subjects you take, or wish you could take, and see where they lead.

Every subject, in plain language

Tap a subject to see what you actually learn, who tends to enjoy it, and the careers it opens.

How subject choice actually works

1

Grade 9 is when you choose

At the end of Grade 9 you pick the subjects you will write in Matric. Four are set for you: two languages, Life Orientation, and either Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy. You then choose three more.

2

Start from the careers, not the subjects

Find two or three careers that interest you, look at the subjects they need, and work backwards. That is far safer than picking whatever sounds easiest.

3

Keep your options wide

Taking Mathematics and Physical Sciences keeps almost every door open, even if you change your mind in Grade 11.

4

Changing is possible, but hard

You can usually change a subject in Grade 10 and sometimes early in Grade 11. After that it gets very difficult, so choose carefully now.

Popular subject combinations

Mathematics + Physical Sciences

  • Engineering
  • Medicine
  • Data Science
  • Actuarial Science
  • Architecture
  • Computer Science

Mathematics + Accounting

  • Chartered Accounting
  • Finance
  • Actuarial Science
  • Economics
  • Business Management

Life Sciences + Physical Sciences

  • Nursing
  • Pharmacy
  • Physiotherapy
  • Veterinary Science
  • Dietetics
  • Lab Science

Creative subjects + Languages

  • Graphic Design
  • Journalism
  • Advertising
  • Film
  • Animation
  • UX/UI Design
  • Marketing

Technical subjects + Maths Literacy

  • Electrician
  • Plumber
  • Welder
  • Automotive Technician
  • Solar Installer

Business Studies + Tourism

  • Event Management
  • Hotel Management
  • Tour Guiding
  • Entrepreneurship

Subject combinations and admission requirements differ by institution and by course, always check the official requirements of the university or college you are interested in.

This tool is designed to help you explore career possibilities. It does not replace professional career counselling, school guidance or official university admission requirements.