Matric Exams 2026: Key Dates, Candidate Numbers and When Results Come Out
Matric Exams 2026 at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| First paper | Tuesday, 13 October 2026 (Computer Applications Technology, practical) |
| First paper for most learners | Thursday, 15 October 2026 (English) |
| Last day of exams | Thursday, 26 November 2026 |
| Total candidates | 962,832 (a record) |
| Full-time candidates | 815,051 |
| Part-time candidates | 147,781 |
| Exam centres | About 7,100 |
| Marking centres | 189 |
| Markers | 51,104 |
| Results | Expected mid-January 2027 (date to be confirmed) |
Election Day During the Exams
The local government elections take place on Wednesday, 4 November 2026, in the middle of the exams. The President declared the day a public holiday, and the Electoral Commission said this helps limit disruption to matric learners. Learners should follow the official timetable and their school’s instructions. See our page on the 4 November 2026 public holiday.
Tips for the Rest of the Exams
- Check your timetable every evening, and arrive at least 30 minutes early.
- Take your ID or admission letter and the stationery allowed in the exam room.
- Do not take cellphones or notes into the exam room. Breaking exam rules can lead to your results being withheld.
- Sleep well before each paper. Short study sessions with breaks work better than all-night studying.
- If you feel overwhelmed, speak to a teacher, parent or counsellor.
After the Exams: Marking and Results
After 26 November, papers go to 189 marking centres, where 51,104 markers check them. Results usually come out in mid-January. The Minister of Basic Education announces the national results first, and learners can see their own results the next morning.
Read our full guide on how to check matric results, including SMS, USSD and the DBE website.
What to Do While You Wait
- Check that your university and NSFAS applications are complete. See universities still open for 2027.
- If you want to become a teacher, apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary 2027 before 31 January 2027.
- Look at TVET college applications as a backup plan.
- If you are worried about your results, read about the matric rewrite programme.
Matric Exams 2026 Questions
When do the 2026 matric exams end?
On Thursday, 26 November 2026.
How many learners are writing matric in 2026?
A record 962,832 candidates: 815,051 full-time and 147,781 part-time.
When will the 2026 matric results be released?
They are expected in mid-January 2027. The exact date will be announced by the Department of Basic Education.
Is there an exam on 4 November 2026?
4 November is a public holiday for the local elections. Follow the official timetable from your school for any changes.