GED Q&A
Can I study internationally with a GED?
Yes. Many international and online tertiary institutions accept the GED for admission. Entry requirements differ between institutions, so students should confirm admission criteria directly with the university or college they plan to attend.
How long does it take to complete the GED?
The GED is self-paced. The time required depends on a student’s academic background, study schedule, and readiness to write each subject test.
Who can write the GED?
Students must:
Be at least 17 years old Have valid identification (ID or passport). There are no formal schooling prerequisites to register.
Can I rewrite a GED subject?
Yes. Students may rewrite individual subjects if they do not achieve a passing score. Waiting periods and rewrite rules may apply according to GED Testing Service policies.
How are GED tests written?
Tests are written digitally through authorised GED testing centres. Students book their exams online and choose available testing dates and locations.
What opportunities are available after completing the GED?
After completing the GED, students commonly pursue:
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Higher Certificates or Diplomas that can roll over into Degree studies.Â
Skills-based training and vocational programmes
Selected international tertiary study opportunities- please reach out
Employment pathways that require Grade 12 equivalent education
AHSD Q&A
What is the AHSD?
The American Home School Diploma (AHSD) is a high school diploma awarded to students completing their secondary education at home through a structured program. It is recognized internationally and can be used for tertiary studies in South Africa and abroad, or for employment.
Who teaches the student?
Parents or guardians act as the primary teacher, guiding daily lessons, reviewing assignments, and supporting learning. Northside Tutors (NST) provides the curriculum, guidance, tutoring, and progress monitoring to ensure students meet diploma requirements.
Do I need a specific curriculum?
No, you can follow the curriculum of your choice providing it meets the curriculum requirements of the South African CAPS system. NST provides services only to students enrolled in its preferred curriculum. This ensures consistency, compliance with AHSD requirements, and smooth progress tracking. NST advises on curriculum implementation, pacing, and lesson planning within this preferred program.
How are student records managed?
Parents maintain records of completed courses, grades, and progress reports. NST supports families by:
Maintaining official transcripts
Assisting with diploma issuance through the registered Umbrella School or online US accredited SchoolÂ
Monitoring student progress to ensure graduation success.
Is the AHSD accredited?
Northside Tutors offers both accredited and non-accredited American High School Diploma pathways. Our preferred route is through a WASC-accredited institution, which is internationally recognized and generally carries greater weight for tertiary admission purposes.
Graduates may apply for SAQA evaluation and, where requirements are met, may qualify for USAF exemption and university admission, subject to the requirements of the relevant institution.
Meeting requirements of selected tertiary institutions students my also be granted exemption with USAf (terms and conditions apply)
Age and graduation requirements?
Students may not graduate before the age of 16
The diploma cannot be completed in less than 3 years.
This ensures students receive a full high school education while still allowing flexible pacing.
How are students assessed
Depending on the Transcript Service provider Assessment may include:
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- Quizzes and exams
- Projects & portfolios
- Standardized tests
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NST provides guidance on assessments and helps families maintain records that satisfy diploma and tertiary study requirements
Can students take extracurricular activities or sports?
Yes. Homeschooled students can participate in local clubs, arts programs, volunteer activities, and sports. This helps develop social skills, leadership, and well-rounded profiles for tertiary applications. Credits can be transferred with the Umbrella school.
Home Schooling Q&A
What about tertiary studies in South Africa and abroad?
AHSD graduates can apply to universities both in South Africa and internationally. For South African universities:
Students must meet the exemption and admission requirements of their chosen institution.
Admission requirements vary between universities and faculties, and some institutions may require additional assessments such as SAT, AP, or NBT results.
Students are encouraged to explore a broad range of public and private tertiary opportunities and engage with admissions offices from Grade 10 onwards.
Northside Tutors provides guidance on tertiary pathways, exemption requirements, and preparing academic documentation for university admission.
How much does it cost?
Costs vary depending on curriculum, online courses, textbooks, and tutoring services. NST offers tailored packages for tuition, guidance, and progress monitoring to help families manage costs effectively.
Do I have to follow South African regulations?
Yes. Families must comply with South African homeschooling laws
Gr. R – 9Â are required to register with the Dept. of Basic Education, this is the parents responsibility and Northside Tutors can assist with ensuring that you meet requirements.Â
Keeping detailed records and progress reports
Following reporting and assessment requirements.
NST assists families to ensure compliance while meeting AHSD standards.
How long does it take to complete?
Most students complete high school in 3–4 years. Homeschooling allows flexible pacing within these requirements, and NST helps design accelerated or extended programs to suit individual student needs.
How can I ensure quality education at home?
Follow a structured daily or weekly schedule
Track progress carefully with transcripts and records
Use a variety of learning methods (reading, videos, projects)
Include social and extracurricular activities
Utilize NST tutoring and guidance to stay on track
How NorthSide Tutors Supports AHSD Students in South Africa
1. Preferred curriculum support, NST provides services only to students using its approved curriculum
2. Tutoring and academic support, one-on-one or group sessions for core subjects
3. Progress monitoring, creating transcripts and maintaining academic records
4. Tertiary guidance, assisting students to meet USAf exemption requirements within the Diploma, parents are responsible for contacting the Faculty and ensuring that entry requirements are communicated with Northside Tutors for advice and guidance.
5. Compliance support, registration with an umbrella school, notarization and U.S. apostille, and secure shipping of diploma and transcripts