The wait is almost over for South Africa’s matric class of 2025! Matric results are a milestone that marks the end of your school career and the beginning of new opportunities. Whether you’re aiming for university, a TVET college, an apprenticeship or a gap year, knowing how and when to get your results is crucial.

When are the 2026 matric results released?

• The Department of Basic Education (DBE) will announce the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination results on Monday, 12 January 2026 and results will be available to candidates from Tuesday, 13 January 2026.
• The Independent Examinations Board (IEB) will release private‑school results on 12 January 2026.
• Results are usually available online from 06:00 on the release date.

Make sure you have your 13‑digit ID number and examination number ready before results day. These details are essential for all official result‑checking channels.

Official Ways to Access Your Matric Results

1.1 DBE Online Results Portal

1. Open a web browser and go to the DBE results page: education.gov.za/MatricResults/ExamResults.aspx. The link becomes active when results are released.
2. Enter your examination number and other requested details (ID number, home language, etc.).
3. Click Search to view your subject marks and overall status. If the page is busy due to high traffic, refresh after a few minutes.

1.2 SMS Services

• Option A – exam number to 45856: Send an SMS containing your exam number to 45856. You will receive a confirmation message and, once results are out, a message with your marks. Each SMS costs approximately R1.50 (no free SMS bundles).
• Option B – ID and exam number to 35658: In some provinces, you can send your ID number and exam number to 35658. Standard SMS rates apply. Check provincial education announcements for availability.

Tip: Double‑check that you’ve typed your details correctly; an incorrect exam number will return no results.

1.3 USSD Service

1. Dial *120*45856# on your mobile phone.
2. Follow the prompts to enter your exam number and other details.
3. You’ll be charged around R1.50 per minute. Once you’ve registered, your results will be sent via SMS as soon as they are available.

1.4 MatricsMate Mobile App

MatricsMate is a free DBE‑endorsed app that provides results via your smartphone.

1. Download the MatricsMate app from Google Play or the Apple App Store.
2. Create an account using your name, surname and a valid email address. You will receive a verification code via email.
3. Verify your account, set a password and log in.
4. Tap on the Results section, enter your exam number and view your marks.

1.5 Newspaper and School Notice Boards

Major newspapers publish matric results on release day, usually listing exam numbers instead of names. You can also collect a printed statement of results from your school or exam centre on the day results are available to candidates (13 January 2026). Bring your ID to verify your identity.

Understanding Your Matric Pass

Your results will specify not only your marks but also the type of pass you achieved. Here’s a quick overview:

• Bachelor’s Degree Pass: Qualifies you for university. Requires at least 40 % in your home language, 50 % in four other subjects (excluding Life Orientation), and 30 % in two remaining subjects. You must have at least 23 APS points.
• Diploma Pass: Allows entry to diploma or national diploma programmes at TVET colleges and some universities of technology. Requires 40 % in your home language, 40 % in three other subjects, and 30 % in two remaining subjects.
• Higher Certificate Pass: Grants access to certificate programmes and certain college courses. Requires 40 % in your home language, 40 % in two other subjects, and 30 % in three subjects.
• Senior Certificate/NSC Pass: The minimum requirement to receive a National Senior Certificate. You must pass at least six subjects: 40 % in the home language and 30 % in two other subjects.

Note: Life Orientation does not count when calculating eligibility for degree or diploma programmes.

Understanding Matric Results Symbols: Bachelor, Diploma, and Higher Certificate

Collecting and Verifying Your Statement of Results

Although online services provide a convenient preview of your marks, they are considered provisional. You must collect your official statement of results from your school or exam centre on 13 January 2026.

• Bring your ID document to verify your identity.
• Check that your name, ID number and subject entries are correct. Report any discrepancies to your school or district office within 30 days of release.
• Keep the statement safe; it is needed for tertiary applications and job interviews. Your official matric certificate will be issued later by Umalusi.

Re‑marking, Re‑checking and Viewing Your Scripts

If you believe your exam scripts were not marked accurately, you can apply for a re‑mark or re‑check:

• Application window: 13 January – 27 January 2026. No late applications are accepted.
• Fees: Re‑mark – R120 per subject; Re‑check – R30 per subject; Viewing your script after a re‑mark – R230. Fees may be waived for learners from no‑fee schools.
• How to apply:
  1. Register or log in at www.eservices.gov.za.
  2. Select the e‑Re‑Mark/re‑Check service.
  3. Choose the subject(s) you wish to appeal and pay the applicable fee online.
  4. Monitor your email for updates. Re‑mark results are typically released in March 2026.

If your personal details (e.g., name or ID number) are incorrect, or if you suspect administrative errors, contact your provincial education department within 30 days of result release. Corrections must be submitted by 21 February 2026.

Upgrading or Rewriting Your Matric Results

Didn’t achieve the marks you wanted? You have several options:

5.1 Second Chance Matric Programme (May/June 2026)

The DBE’s Second Chance Programme allows candidates to rewrite subjects to improve their NSC results.

• Who can apply: Anyone who sat for the 2025 NSC exams and has an exam number.
• Registration dates: 1 October 2025 – 6 February 2026 (no late registrations).
• Cost: Free of charge.
• How to register: Apply online via www.eservices.gov.za or at your nearest education district office. You’ll need your statement of results, ID, and exam number.

5.2 Senior Certificate (SC) for Adults

If you are 21 years or older and never completed matric, you can register for the Senior Certificate (old curriculum). The registration window is the same as the Second Chance Programme. You must provide a certified ID and any previous school reports. SC candidates write exams in June.

5.3 Private Upgrade Colleges

Private institutions offer part‑time and full‑time matric upgrade programmes. They prepare you to rewrite in the October/November exam cycle. You’ll pay tuition and exam fees, but you get structured support and study materials. Choose only accredited colleges.

Preparation tips: Use past exam papers, join study groups, create a study schedule, and maintain a healthy routine. Upgrading is not just about rewriting but also about better study habits.

What to Do After Receiving Your Results

Regardless of your outcome, there are many pathways available:

• University or college applications: If you achieved a Bachelor’s or Diploma pass, finalise your university or TVET college applications. Check that you meet the Admission Point Score (APS) requirements for your programme.
• Learnerships and apprenticeships: These combine work experience with training and can be a great alternative for those who prefer practical learning.
• Gap year or short courses: If you’re unsure about your next step, consider a gap year with volunteering, travel or short courses in areas like digital skills, entrepreneurship or coding.
• Bridging or foundation programmes: Some universities and private colleges offer bridging courses for students who narrowly miss admission requirements. These programmes help you boost your marks and prepare for degree studies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Receiving your matric results marks the end of one journey and the start of another. By understanding when and how to access your marks, knowing your options if things don’t go as planned, and exploring the various pathways available after matric, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions about your future. Whether you’re celebrating a Bachelor’s pass or planning a rewrite, remember that there are countless opportunities ahead.