Matric Exam Timetable 2026 — NSC November 2026
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) publishes the official NSC November 2026 examination timetable, listing all subjects, paper numbers, dates, and times. The timetable is typically released around August each year. All Grade 12 learners, whether at public or state-aided schools, write on the same scheduled dates. This guide explains how to read the timetable, what to expect on exam days, and what to bring.
The official 2026 NSC timetable will be published at education.gov.za around August 2026. Bookmark this page and check back for the confirmed schedule.
When Is the 2026 NSC Timetable Published?
The DBE publishes the NSC November examination timetable on education.gov.za in approximately August 2026. Once published, the timetable is final and no subject-level changes are made.
The November NSC examinations typically begin in late October (around 20–23 October) and run until late November (approximately 27–30 November). Practical and oral assessments for certain subjects (like Music, Drama, and Visual Arts) may take place earlier in Term 3.
How to Read the NSC Timetable
The NSC timetable lists each exam session by date, time, subject, and paper number. Morning sessions typically begin at 09:00 and afternoon sessions at 14:00.
- Check your subject list against the timetable to identify every date you need to write.
- Note whether your subjects have Paper 1, Paper 2, and/or Paper 3 on different dates.
- Mark all exam dates in your personal study calendar.
- Note sessions that fall close together — study those subjects in advance.
- If two of your subjects clash on the timetable, report this to your school's examination officer immediately — the DBE has a process for clash papers.
What to Bring to Every NSC Exam
- Your South African ID book, Smart ID card, or valid passport — you cannot enter the exam hall without it.
- Your examination admission letter (provided by your school).
- Black or blue ballpoint pens — bring spares.
- Pencils and an eraser for diagrams and graphs.
- A transparent scientific calculator (not graphical) for Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Accounting, Economics, and other calculation-based subjects.
- A protractor and ruler for Geography and Mathematics mapwork.
- A watch (non-smartwatch) to monitor your time.
- Correction fluid (Tipp-Ex) is generally not allowed — rather use a single neat line through errors.
Exam Day Rules
- Arrive at the examination centre at least 30 minutes before the start time.
- No mobile phones, smartwatches, or electronic devices are allowed in the exam hall — leave them at home or hand them to the invigilator.
- You may not leave the exam hall in the first hour or the last 15 minutes of the session.
- Do not talk to other candidates once papers have been distributed.
- Read all instructions on the cover page carefully before you start writing.
- Write your examination number on every page of your answer booklet.
Special Concessions
Learners with disabilities or barriers to learning may apply for special concessions — such as extra time, a reader, a scribe, or a separate venue. Applications must be submitted through your school's examination officer well in advance (typically before May of Grade 12). Contact your school or the DBE for the application process.