For Grade 12 students in South Africa getting ready for their 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams, the Matric schedule is an essential tool. The dates and timings for each subject’s exam are listed in this timetable, which helps students organize their study habits and time properly.
Key Examination Periods in 2025
- May/June Examinations: These mid-year exams typically commence in early May and conclude in early June. For instance, the South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute (SACAI) has released its final timetable for this period, starting on May 8, 2025, and ending on June 6, 2025.
- Preliminary Examinations: Often referred to as “prelims,” these exams are usually scheduled between August and September. They serve as a preparatory phase for the final exams, allowing students to identify areas that need improvement. Specific dates can vary by school, so it’s essential to consult your institution for exact timings.
- Final Examinations (October/November): The culmination of the matric year, these exams generally begin in late October and run through November. While the Department of Basic Education (DBE) has not yet released the official timetable for the 2025 final exams, it’s anticipated that they will follow a similar schedule to previous years.
When Will the Matric Exams Start in 2025?
The National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations typically begin in October and extend through November, with results released in early January the following year. While the official timetable is yet to be released by the Department of Basic Education (DBE), past trends suggest that the first exams will start with practical subjects such as Computer Applications Technology (CAT) and Information Technology (IT), followed by core subjects like Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and English.
How to Access the Matric Timetable 2025
The official Matric Exam Timetable 2025 will be published by the Department of Basic Education on their website (www.education.gov.za) as well as on provincial education department portals. Schools will also distribute printed copies to learners.
To stay updated, students should:
- Regularly check the DBE website for announcements.
- Follow the social media pages of the education department.
- Consult their schools for the latest updates.
Key Subjects and Exam Dates
While we await the final timetable, here’s a general outline of how Matric exams are usually scheduled:
- Early October: Practical exams (CAT, IT, and Visual Arts)
- Mid-October: Major language papers (English, Afrikaans, isiZulu, isiXhosa, etc.)
- Late October – Early November: Core subjects (Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Accounting, Business Studies, etc.)
- Mid-November: Final exams for elective subjects
- End of November: Completion of all exams