In our third video in the series, we unpack one of the most important topics: the EISA (External Integrated Summative Assessment) and how learners can best prepare for it.
What is the EISA?
The External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) is the final step in a QCTO qualification. Unlike traditional classroom tests, it is a national exam administered through accredited assessment centres in partnership with the QCTO.
It’s the point where learners demonstrate that they can bring together:
- Knowledge
- Practical Skills
- Workplace Experience
Think of it as the final seal of competence – the “badge” that confirms a learner is ready to perform their role with confidence.
Why the EISA Matters
Many learners are nervous about the EISA. After all, for most, it’s been years since they last wrote a formal exam. But here’s the truth: with the right preparation, the EISA is not something to fear. It’s a structured process designed to validate competence, not to trip learners up.
For organisations, the EISA provides reassurance: every graduate leaving with a QCTO qualification has been independently assessed and moderated to a national standard.
How We Prepare Learners at Leverage Leadership
Preparation is everything. At Leverage Leadership, we ensure learners walk into their EISA with confidence by providing:
- Mock Exams: Practice runs that simulate the real assessment.
- Exemplar Papers: Past examples released by the SETAs/QCTO.
- Q&A Feedback Sessions: Facilitators provide detailed guidance on what learners did well and where they can improve.
- Time Management Practice: Helping learners stick to exam limits with confidence.
This step-by-step support has resulted in consistently strong pass rates across our programmes.
Behind the Scenes of the EISA
Here’s what happens once learners write the EISA:
- Assessment Centres mark and conduct internal moderation.
- Results are submitted to the Assessment Quality Partner (AQP).
- The QCTO performs final moderation.
- Successful learners are issued with their official qualification.
It’s a rigorous process – and that’s the point. The EISA is about quality assurance and national credibility.
Overcoming the Fear Factor
Yes, the EISA is an exam. But it’s also an opportunity:
- To validate everything learnt across knowledge, practice, and workplace modules.
- To gain a nationally recognised qualification.
- To walk away with the confidence that skills are real, tested, and certified.
The Leverage Leadership View
We believe the EISA adds weight to the QCTO system. It gives learners the recognition they deserve and organisations the assurance they need.
With the right preparation and support, the EISA becomes more than a test – it’s the final step in building competence, confidence, and career growth.
With this, our QCTO blog series comes full circle:
Together, these changes represent a new era of skills development in South Africa – one that builds lasting capability, not quick fixes.
