How to Rewrite Matric in South Africa: NSC Exam Registration Guide
If you did not pass your National Senior Certificate (NSC), failed specific subjects, or want to improve your results, you can rewrite your matric exams through the Department of Basic Education. There are two main options: the NSC Supplementary Examinations (for those who wrote the previous November) and the main NSC examinations (for full rewrites and first-time adult candidates). This guide covers both.
Your Options for Rewriting Matric
The DBE offers two examination sessions each year for NSC candidates:
1. Supplementary Examinations: Held in February/March, available to candidates who wrote the main exams the previous November and failed up to a limited number of subjects. No registration fee for this sitting if you are eligible.
2. Main NSC Examinations (November): Available to adult candidates writing for the first time or rewriting after a previous attempt. Registration required at your district education office.
Who Can Register for a Matric Rewrite?
- Anyone who previously enrolled for the NSC and did not achieve a full pass
- Adults who did not complete Grade 12 and wish to obtain their NSC
- Candidates wishing to improve their matric results for university entrance
- Previous candidates seeking to improve specific subject results to meet tertiary admission requirements
Contact your nearest district education office early. Registration deadlines are strictly enforced and late registration may not be possible.
How to Register for the NSC Exams
Registration for the main NSC examinations (November) takes place between February and May at your nearest Department of Education district office. Supplementary exam registration is handled automatically for eligible candidates.
- Visit your nearest provincial or district Department of Education office.
- Request a registration form for NSC examinations as a part-time or adult candidate.
- Complete the form with your personal details and the subjects you wish to write.
- Pay the prescribed registration fee (approximately R180 per subject in 2026, subject to change).
- Attach copies of your ID and any previous NSC statement of results.
- Submit the completed form and receive confirmation of registration.
- Collect your examination entry forms and timetable from the district office closer to the exam date.
Registration Fees
The fee per subject for the NSC examinations is approximately R180. If you are rewriting multiple subjects, multiply accordingly. Some provinces may have slightly different fee structures.
Fee waivers or reductions may be available for unemployed candidates or those receiving social grants. Ask at your district office about financial assistance.
Study Options While Preparing to Rewrite
- Enrol at a TVET college that offers NSC preparation programmes
- Register with an accredited private or correspondence school
- Use free DBE past exam papers available at www.education.gov.za
- Access free online resources through platforms such as Siyavula (www.siyavula.com) and Mindset Learn
- Attend adult education and training (AET) centres offered by your provincial education department
After the Exams: Collecting Your Results
NSC results are released in January each year. You can check your results via SMS by sending the message NSC followed by a space and your ID number to 35658. Results are also available at www.education.gov.za.
Certificates are issued by Umalusi (the quality assurance body) and distributed through the provincial education departments. Collect your certificate at the school or district office where you registered.