How to Choose the Right Career Path in High School (SA Guide)
To choose a career path while you are still in high school can feel like a mountain on your shoulders. You might not be clued up with existing jobs or how your school subjects choices connect to them.
This guide will provide you with simple steps to explore your strengths, understand your options, and start building your dream future.
- Know What You Are Good At
The subjects you are best in and enjoy the most might be subjects that can help you make informed career choices.
Ask yourself:
- Which subjects are my favorite?
- Where do I get good marks?
- What projects make me feel proud?
Examples:
- If you enjoy Maths, consider careers in finance, IT, or engineering.
- If you enjoy Life Sciences, look into medicine, agriculture, or health.
- If you enjoy English, explore journalism, law, or education.
Speak to your teachers. They often spot your strengths before you do.
- Research Different Careers
You can’t choose what you don’t know. Start by exploring career websites made for South African learners:
- Career Planet
- Go Study
- National Career Advice Portal
These sites explain:
- What different jobs involve
- What you need to study
- What types of skills are currently in demand in South Africa
Another idea is to explore job boards or talk to people who already work in careers that interest you.
- Choose the Right Subjects
Your subject choices matter. They open or close doors for further study and jobs.
Some examples:
- To study medicine: You’ll need Pure Mathematics, Life Sciences, and Physical Sciences.
- To study law: Strong English and History are useful.
- To go into IT: Choose Pure Mathematics and Computer Applications Technology.
Before you make your subject choices in Grade 9 or Grade 10, visit websites like:
Check the entry requirements for the courses you’re interested in.
- Get Real-World Experience
Try to gain experience before you leave school. This helps you test your interests.
You can:
- Job shadow someone in your community
- Volunteer at a business, clinic, or school
- Join school clubs that link to careers—like coding, debating, or science clubs
You can also explore:
The more you try, the clearer your path becomes.
- Look for Study and Funding Options
Not everyone can afford university—but you still have options.
Here’s how to keep going after high school:
- Apply to a TVET College for practical courses (see TVET Colleges SA)
- Look for learnerships that pay while you train
- Apply for NSFAS funding (NSFAS website)
- Try free or low-cost online courses at Coursera or LinkedIn Learning
Don’t let money or location stop you. There are many paths to a career.
Take One Step at a Time
You don’t need to have it all figured out. What matters is getting started.
Be curious. Try things. Ask questions.
Your career path will grow with you.