SAQA's objectives are to:

1. Advance the objectives of the NQF;
2. Oversee the further development and implementation of the NQF; and
3. Co-ordinate the elements within the NQF

SAQA together with the three Quality Councils (QCs) must seek to advance the objectives of the NQF by:

• Developing, fostering and maintaining an integrated and transparent national framework for the recognition of learning achievements;
• Ensuring that South African qualifications meet appropriate criteria, determined by the Minister of Education and are internationally comparable; and
• Ensuring that South African qualifications are of an acceptable quality.
• Communicating the NQF to the public
• Facilitating research initiatives and disseminating the outcomes thereof
• Evaluating foreign qualifications