Matric 2026: Exam Dates and Results
Exam dates for the class of 2026, a live countdown, and what to expect on results day.
Key dates
- First exam
- Tue, 13 October 2026
- Last exam
- Thu, 26 November 2026
- Results
- Mid-January 2027 (date not yet announced)
A record 962 832 candidates registered: 815 051 full-time and 147 781 part-time.
On results day
- Have your exam number and ID number ready.
- Collect your statement from your school or exam centre, the most reliable option.
- Or check by SMS, USSD or on the DBE website from early morning on release day.
- If a mark looks wrong, ask your school about a remark or recheck straight away, as the window is short.
- Work out your APS score and pass level for university applications.
How it works
The countdown runs to the last exam on 26 November 2026 and, once exams are over, to results day when the date is confirmed.
Sources: eNCA: 2026 matric exams kick off (13 Oct 2026) · Daily Maverick: Matric 2025 results release dates.
Figures last checked against official sources on .
Questions
When do the 2026 matric exams start and end?
The final National Senior Certificate exams run from Tuesday, 13 October 2026 to Thursday, 26 November 2026.
When will the class of 2026 matric results be released?
The Department of Basic Education hasn’t announced the date yet. Last year, the Minister announced the national results on the evening of 12 January 2026 and learners could get their own results from 13 January 2026, so expect mid-January 2027.
How do I get my matric results?
Collect them from your school or exam centre, which is the most reliable option. Results are also available by SMS, USSD and on the DBE website once released. Newspapers publish exam numbers and results only, without names.
Can I ask for a remark or recheck?
Yes. Applications open after results are released and have a short deadline. Your school or provincial education department will give the dates and fees.