South Africa – Wednesday, 17 December 2025 — The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has officially announced the release dates for the 2025 South African Matric results. Learners and parents across the country can now prepare to access the results that mark a major milestone in every learner’s academic journey.

2025 Matric Results Key Dates

• Ministerial Announcement:
  Monday, 13 January 2026
  The Minister of Basic Education will announce the national matric results during a live media briefing.
• Individual Learner Results Available:
  Tuesday, 14 January 2026, from 6:00 AM
  Learners can collect their results at schools or access them online via official DBE platforms.

How Learners Can Access Their 2025 Matric Results

The DBE offers multiple official methods for accessing matric results. Here’s a detailed guide for each:

1. Online via the DBE Website

The DBE’s official website is one of the most reliable ways to check matric results.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Go to the official DBE Matric Results portal: https://www.education.gov.za/MatricResults/ExamResults.aspx
2. Enter your Examination Number exactly as it appears on your exam certificate or timetable.
3. Click Submit to view your 2025 matric results.
4. You can download or print your results for future reference.

Tips:

• Ensure you have a stable internet connection to avoid delays.
• If the website is slow due to high traffic, try checking during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening).
• Only use the official DBE website — beware of fake sites claiming early results.

2. By SMS

Learners can receive their matric results directly on their mobile phones via SMS.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Open your mobile messaging app.
2. Type your exam number in the message field.
3. Send the SMS to 45856.
4. The system will verify your number and send your results once available.

Important Notes:

• Cost: R1.50 per SMS. Free SMS bundles do not apply.
• Ensure your exam number is correct; incorrect numbers will be rejected.
• Results are sent as a standard text message, so you can save them for later reference.

Tips:

• Use a personal phone number to avoid losing access to your results.
• Check your SMS balance beforehand to avoid failed delivery.
• If your SMS fails, wait a few minutes and try again.

3. Via USSD

USSD allows learners to access results even without an internet connection.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. On your phone, dial: *120*45856#.
2. Follow the prompts and enter your exam number.
3. Wait for the system to verify your number.
4. Your matric results will be sent directly to your phone once released.

Important Notes:

• Cost: R1.50 per minute.
• Works on both smartphones and feature phones.
• Ensure you have network coverage when registering.

Tips:

• Keep your phone charged during the process.
• If your registration fails, try re-dialing after a few minutes.
• This method is ideal for learners in areas with limited internet access.

4. Using the MatricsMate App

The MatricsMate App is a convenient option for learners who prefer mobile apps.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Download MatricsMate from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Open the app and sign up with your full name, surname, and email address.
3. Check your email for the confirmation code sent by the app.
4. Enter the code in the app to verify your account.
5. Set a secure password and log in.
6. Tap the Results icon, enter your exam number, and access your 2025 matric results.
7. You can download, save, or print your results from the app.

Tips:

• Make sure your email address is correct and active, as the confirmation code is sent there.
• Use a strong password to protect your account.
• The app allows you to access past matric results if needed.
• Check for app updates before the release date to avoid technical issues.

What to Do If Results Are Not as Expected

For learners who may be disappointed with their results, it is important to remember that this is not the end of the road. Options include:

• Re-marking or re-checking your exam papers
• Writing supplementary exams
• Enrolling at TVET colleges or vocational programs
• Exploring alternative career and study paths

Matric results are just one step, many learners achieve success through second-chance opportunities.

Final Reminders

• Keep your exam number safe.
• Use official DBE platforms only.
• Avoid scams promising early results.

Learners can access their 2025 matric results from Tuesday, 14 January 2026, from 6 AM. Be ready to check your results as soon as they are released.