Matric Results 2025/2026: Expected Release Date & How to Check
The South African Department of Basic Education has officially confirmed that the Matric Results 2025/2026 will be released according to the national examination timetable, providing clarity to thousands of candidates, parents, and schools awaiting the outcome of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.
The 2025 NSC examinations are scheduled to conclude on 27 November 2025, after which the marking, moderation, and verification processes will continue nationwide. The Minister of Basic Education, Ms Siviwe Gwarube, is expected to formally announce the examination outcomes on 12 January 2026, with individual candidate results becoming accessible the following day.
Speaking on the readiness of the department, Gwarube confirmed that “the marking and verification processes remain firmly on track,” reassuring the public that existing systems are operating as intended.
Countdown to the Matric Results 2025/2026 Announcement
The countdown below shows the time remaining until the official Matric Results 2025/2026 release on 12 January 2026
This countdown reflects the expected national announcement date for the Matric Results 2025/2026.
When Will Matric Results 2025/2026 Be Released?
According to the Department of Basic Education, the release process will take place in two stages:
- 12 January 2026: The Minister of Basic Education will officially announce the outcome of the 2025 National Senior Certificate examinations.
- 13 January 2026: Candidates will be able to access their individual matric results from 6:00 am, both online and through their schools or examination centres.
The department has noted that some results may not be immediately available due to technical considerations, which is a situation that occurs annually and is addressed through established follow-up procedures.
The department confirmed that the Matric Results 2025/2026 release will proceed as planned despite a localised examination paper leak identified at a small number of schools in Pretoria.
Minister Gwarube explained that the incident involved examination papers from seven schools, was detected early, and was swiftly contained. A National Investigative Task Team has been established to investigate the matter further.
She emphasised that “the integrity checks already built into the national marking system are continuing without delay,” adding that the investigation will not affect the marking or verification timelines.
How to Check Matric Results 2025/2026
Once the Matric Results 2025/2026 are officially released, candidates will be able to access their National Senior Certificate (NSC) results through several approved channels. The Department of Basic Education has made provisions to ensure that learners across South Africa can view their results regardless of internet access or location.
Candidates are advised to keep their examination number readily available, as it is required for all result-checking methods.
1. Collect Results from School or Exam Centre
The most reliable way to access Matric Results 2025/2026 is by collecting the official Statement of Results from the school or examination centre where the exams were written.
This method is particularly important for candidates whose results may not immediately appear online due to technical exclusions. Schools and centres receive official result statements directly from the Department of Basic Education.
Important notes:
- Results can be collected from 13 January 2026
- Bring identification if required by the school
- Arrive early, as long queues are common on results day
2. Check Matric Results 2025/2026 Online
Candidates can also check their Matric Results 2025/2026 online via official platforms managed by the Department of Basic Education and provincial education departments.
Online access is expected to open from 6:00 am on 13 January 2026, although availability times may differ slightly between provinces.
Steps to check results online:
- Visit the official Department of Basic Education (https://www.education.gov.za) or your provincial education website
- Navigate to the National Senior Certificate (NSC) Results section
- Enter your exam number (and ID number if requested)
- Submit the details to view your results
Some provinces operate independent portals, which may perform better during periods of high traffic.
Video Guide: How to Check Matric Results Online
The video below provides a step-by-step visual guide on how candidates can check their matric results online once the system is live:
3. SMS and USSD Result Services
For candidates without reliable internet access, SMS services provide an alternative method for checking results.
How it works:
- Open a new SMS message
- Enter your 13-digit exam number
- Send it to 45856
- Results will be sent to your phone once released
Please note:
- SMS charges may apply
- Ensure the exam number is correct before sending
4. Checking Matric Results Using USSD
USSD services allow candidates to check results on any mobile phone without requiring data or internet access.
USSD steps:
- Dial *120*45856#
- Follow the on-screen prompts
- Enter your exam number when requested
- View your results directly on your screen
This option is particularly useful during peak traffic periods when websites may be slow.
What to Do If Your Results Do Not Appear
In some cases, matric results may not be immediately visible online. The Department of Basic Education advises candidates to remain calm and take the following steps:
- Visit your school or examination centre for assistance
- Contact your district or provincial education office if necessary
- Submit a formal results query within 30 days of the release date
Candidates are also urged to verify that their names and identity numbers are correct on their statements of results and to report any errors before 20 February 2026.
Final Notes for Candidates and Families
For many learners, the Matric Results 2025/2026 represent a decisive milestone that determines access to universities, TVET colleges, and bursary opportunities. The Department of Basic Education has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accuracy, and fairness throughout the results process.
As the countdown to January continues, candidates are encouraged to prepare their examination details in advance and follow official announcements to ensure smooth access to their results.
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