How to Apply for Matric Upgrade

WHAT DOES IT MEAN? A matric upgrade allows you to improve your Grade 12 results by redoing certain subjects or taking new ones. To do so you, therefore, need to Apply to rewrite your matric.

SEE – When Are the Application Opening for Matric Rewrite?

How to Apply for Matric Upgrade / Rewrite 2025/2026

There are certain steps involved in rewriting NSC Matric Exams, please read on to find out.

STEP 1: Determine Your Eligibility

You must have completed Grade 12 and have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Senior Certificate (SC). You need access to your old results as these are required for the application.

STEP 2: Choose an Institution

Enrol with institutions offering matric upgrades, such as:

• Department of Basic Education (DBE): You can re-write subjects through the DBE’s Second Chance Programme.
• Private colleges or institutions: Examples include Damelin, Skills Academy, and Boston City Campus.
• Adult learning centres (ABET): Available at local community education and training (CET) centres.

STEP 3: Decide on Subjects

Choose the subjects you want to improve or add. Consult an academic advisor if needed.

STEP 4: Register for the Upgrade

You can register through the following channels;

• Through DBE: Visit your nearest Department of Education district office or website.
  Submit the required forms and documents.
• Register through a Private Institution: Visit the institution’s website or office.

STEP 5. Documents Required

• Certified copy of your ID or passport.
• A certified copy of your original matric results.
• Proof of address.
• Completed registration form (provided by the institution or DBE).

STEP 6. Pay Fees

DBE rewrites are free if registered through the department.
Private institutions will charge fees for tuition, study materials, and registration.

STEP 7: Study and Prepare

Utilize study guides, attend classes, or join online tutorials.

DBE’s Second Chance Programme provides free resources, including past papers and online lessons.

Recommended:

• NSC Exam Papers – Feb/March 2017
• NSC Exam Papers – Feb/March 2018
• NSC Exam Papers – May/June 2019 
• NSC Exam Papers – Grade 11

STEP 8: Write the Exams

Exams are typically scheduled for the next available exam period:

• Supplementary Exams: occur shortly after the matric results are released (May/June).
• November Exams: Available for all upgrade candidates.

SEE: May/June NSC Exams 2025

STEP 9. Receive Your New Results

After writing, your updated results will be issued by Umalusi and can be combined with your original results if needed.

If you need assistance finding institutions or further guidance, let Us know in the comment session below.