The moment that every South African matriculant has been eagerly anticipating has finally arrived, the Department of Education has released the Matric Results! With excitement and anticipation building, students across the country are eager to learn how they performed in their final exams. This year’s results not only represent a significant achievement but also provide an opportunity for students to determine their next steps in their academic or career journeys.

In this article, we will guide you on how to easily access your matriculation results from the Department of Education, what you need to know to understand your marks, and how to plan your future accordingly.

When are Matric Results Released?

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) typically releases matriculation results in early January. This is a significant event as it marks the end of a long journey for students who have completed their National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams. As of 2025, results are expected to be available by the first week of January, with some schools and students receiving their results earlier through various channels.

How to Access Your Matric Results

Now that the results are out, here’s how you can access them quickly and easily:

Visit the Official Department of Basic Education Website

The most direct and official way to check your matriculation results is through the Department of Basic Education’s website. The DBE sets up a dedicated page for matriculation results each year. To view your results online:

• Go to the official DBE website: www.education.gov.za.
• Look for the section where matrix results are posted (this will be highlighted on the homepage when results are available).
• Enter your exam number in the required field. This unique identifier is given to you during your matric year and is used to locate your results.
• You may be asked to verify your identity by providing your date of birth or other details, so have that information ready.
• Once entered, your results will appear, including the marks for each subject and your overall performance.

Check Via SMS

For added convenience, the Department of Basic Education provides a quick and easy way to receive your matriculation results via SMS. To do this:

• Send your exam number to the official shortcode 35658.
• You will receive an SMS with your matric results shortly after sending the message.

This method is beneficial for those who do not have internet access or prefer not to navigate websites.

Call the Department of Education

For those who prefer speaking to someone or need assistance, you can call the Department of Education’s toll-free helpline. The number is typically 0800 00 74 74, and once you follow the prompts, you can input your exam number to hear your results.

Access Through Your School

If you would rather check your results in person or do not have access to an online service, your school will usually have the results available for you. Schools often provide printed copies of matriculation results or display them on noticeboards for students to check.

Enter Exam Number To Check Matric Results Now !!

What to Do After Checking Your Matric Results

After receiving your matriculation results, there are several important steps to take depending on your results:

Evaluate Your Results and Future Plans

Your matriculation results will determine whether you qualify for a Bachelor’s Degree, Diploma, or Higher Certificate. Understanding your results is key to knowing what opportunities are available to you. If you’ve passed with the required marks, you can consider applying to universities or colleges. If your results fall short, there are options to pursue supplementary exams, or you can consider vocational training.

Apply to Universities and Colleges

If your marks are in line with the entry requirements for higher education, you can begin applying to universities and other institutions. Most universities have specific entry requirements based on subject choices, and your admission points score (APS) will play a significant role in whether you are accepted into your desired course.

Be sure to check the application deadlines for each institution, as they vary and can be quite strict.

Consider Supplementary Exams

If you did not pass all of your subjects, don’t be discouraged. The Department of Education offers the opportunity to write supplementary exams for students who need to improve their marks in specific subjects. You will need to apply for supplementary exams by following the instructions provided by your school or the Department of Education.

Enter the Workforce

If you choose not to pursue further studies, your matric certificate is still a valuable asset in the job market. Many employers require a matric qualification as a basic entry requirement, and with your marks in hand, you can begin applying for jobs in various fields. Some positions may require specific subjects, such as mathematics or a language, so make sure to target roles that align with your strengths.

Enter Exam Number To Check Matric Results Now !!

How to Interpret Your Matric Results

Matric results are broken down into the following categories:

Pass Rate: You need to pass at least 4 subjects to achieve a National Senior Certificate (NSC). A Bachelor’s Pass allows you to apply for university studies, a Diploma Pass is for further education at a college or a trade, and a Higher Certificate Pass opens doors for basic job opportunities.

Subject Marks: You’ll see your marks for each subject, such as English, Mathematics, and Science. Pay attention to which subjects you’ve excelled in and which ones might require improvement for your future academic plans.

Matriculation Endorsement: In addition to subject marks, your results will show your endorsement (whether you qualify for a bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate). It’s important to know what kind of pass you achieved because it determines your eligibility for different types of further study.

Conclusion

The release of matric results by the Department of Education is an important milestone for all students in South Africa. Whether you’re eagerly awaiting your results or helping a friend or family member navigate the process, understanding how to access your results and what to do next can make the transition from high school to the next phase of life smoother.

Keep in mind that the road ahead is filled with opportunities. If you didn’t achieve the results you wanted, there are still various options to continue your education, take supplementary exams, or pursue vocational and employment opportunities. Celebrate your accomplishments, regardless of the outcome, and begin planning your future with confidence.

Good luck, and may this be the first step toward an exciting new chapter in your life!