Rewriting matric

Matric College is an institution that aims at providing you with a second chance. With Matric College, you will receive the best support to ensure that you improve your matric results.

What is a matric rewrite?

Supplementary exams (second chance exams) are for students who did not meet the requirements of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Senior Certificate (SC). The Department of Basic Education has created a programme called the Second Chance Programme

The Second Chance Programme was designed to support learners who want to rewrite their matric subjects. This programme is not restricted to students who failed matric as support is also provided to part-time and supplementary learners. 

Matric Pass levels

Higher certificate pass

Learners with a higher certificate pass may only study at an institution that offers higher certificate courses or you can study towards a course that does not require matric. To get a higher certificate pass you have to;

  • Obtain 40% in your Home Language.
  • At least 40% in two other subjects.
  • At least 30% for three other subjects.

Diploma pass

Learners with a diploma pass can study at a college and get a diploma certificate. Learners can also study at a university that offers diploma courses. To get a diploma pass you have to;

  • Get at least 40% in your home language 
  • At least 40% in three other subjects
  • At least 30% for two other subjects 

Bachelor's pass

Learners with a bachelor’s pass can apply to study at university, college or any school of higher education. Acceptance will depend on the course and university requirements. To get a bachelor’s pass you have to;

  • Obtain at least 40% in your home language 
  • At least 50% in four other subjects 
  • At least 30% in two other subjects

Level system: What the grades mean

Level 7

80–100% (Outstanding achievement)

Level 6

70–79% (Meritorious achievement)

Level 5

60–69% (Substantial achievement)

Level 4

50–59% (Moderate achievement)

Level 3

40–49% (Adequate achievement)

Level 2

30–39% (Elementary achievement)

Level 1

0–29% (Not achieved: Fail)

Where can I apply for a matric rewrite?

You can rewrite your matric through Matric college. When you choose to study through matric college, you will receive all the support that you need to complete your studies. The best part is that you will get to study in the comfort of your home as all your relevant study material will be delivered to your doorstep.

How to prepare for a matric rewrite?

  • Commit to your wellbeing
  • Create a study timetable
  • Identify your peak times
  • Use past exam papers

Commit to your wellbeing

Studying for your matric exams can be very stressful. It is important that you take care of yourself. Make sure you eat healthy, get enough rest, exercise and make use of your support system. If you feel stressed or anxious, reach out to someone you trust who you can talk to.

Create a study timetable

Creating a study timetable is a very important method to use to help you manage your time. A study timetable will act as a guide for when you have to study. 

Identify your peak times

We all have times in the day where we are more effective in how we work. These times might be different between you and your peers. Once you know your peak hours, study your most difficult subjects during your peak hours. This will allow you to use more time and concentration on the subjects you find challenging

Use past exam papers

Past exam papers are very useful in helping you test your knowledge. A very useful tip is for you to try to finish these past exam papers in the same amount of time as you would in the actual exam. To download past exam papers for all subjects, click here.

Study without matric

If you do not have your matric, there are a variety of courses available for you that do not require a matric certificate.  Here is a list of courses you can study without matric:

Benefits of Getting Your Matric Through Distance Learning

  • Study in the comfort of your own home
  • Course material is delivered to you
  • Access to support from tutors and lecturers
  • Money back within 30 days after registering if you aren’t happy with our services
  • No credit checks