Matric Class of 2025 Final Result Countdown is Successfully Winding Down

Matric Class of 2025 is almost done and dusted. The Department of Basic Education is set to release the final result for almost one-million grade 12 learners on 12 January 2026. Across South Africa in 7 000 exam centres and supported by thousands of invigilators over 900 000 learners sat for their final school examination. There were also more than 51 000 markers and moderators involved in ensuring each and every exam paper was given the priority of distinction it deserved.

Matric is a stepping stone

With almost one-million learners now deciding on the next step of their lives, some may not have entirely passed the final examination. There is a second chance to try again. Learners should understand that there are times that one’s results successes don’t fall into place but that there is no need to take drastic steps. Speak to a caring family member of friend if you feel as if you can’t manage knowing that you may have not passed the entire exam. However, the DBE is committed to ensuring that learners do get a second chance at writing their matric.

Matric Second Chance Programme

The official Second Chance Programme is provided free of charge to candidates. Any candidate who has failed the initial exam after 2008 can attempt their matric exam again. These exams will take place in two cycles. One in May and June and one in November 2026. The DBE has stressed that eligible individuals may register to rewrite or add subjects without any payment in accordance with its policies for the first exam cycle. Candidates should take note that the DBE does not endorse any private or commercial services that request payment for the Second Chance Programme for matric rewrites.

Visit official education sites

“For authentic information, please contact the Department of Basic Education directly or visit the official website,” the DBE said. The department said that the aim of the Second Chance Matric Programme was to provide support to learners, who have not been able to meet the requirements of the NSC or the extended Senior Certificate. “The programme is part of meeting the goals of the National Development Plan and the basic education sector, leading to increased learner retention. Learners are also exposed to bursary opportunities for further studies,” added the DBE.

Targetted subjects to rewrite

The DBE said that there were targeted subjects for matric learners to rewrite during the Second Chance Programme.

This includes:

• Accounting
• Agricultural Science
• Business Studies
• Economics
• English First Additional Language
• Geography
• History
• Mathematics
• Mathematic Literacy
• Physical Science
• Life Sciences

Student bursary and loans

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) closed applications to matric learners wishing to apply for student aid on 31 December 2025. The scheme advised first-time entering students, who meet the financial eligibility criteria, that a valid acceptance from an institution of higher learning was also required in order to process payments for higher education. “In most cases, this confirmation will only be available once matric results are released,” added the scheme. Any application classified as “in process” and reflected as “incomplete” relates to cases where additional documentation is outstanding.

How it works at NSFAS

A total of 893 847 matric learners applied for student aid at the NSFAS. Some applications had to be returned for further evaluation once applicants submitted the required information. Correspondence is sent to affected students who don’t provide all of the necessary documentation, some more than once, clearly indicating the documents that must be provided.

• Applications qualifying for financial aid: 609 403.
• Applications that are rejected for financial aid: 49 538
• Incomplete applications (awaiting documents): 218 043
• Withdrawn/cancelled applications: 16 863

Visit us for more news on matric 2025 and more education news in the coming days.

If you don’t plan on studying in 2026 and wish to take a gap year why not try to find a job, read this story for more information.

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