South Africa’s Department of Basic Education says the 2026 matric exams are progressing steadily and that marking is due to begin on 1 December, as the National Senior Certificate (NSC) cycle enters its final stages.
In a statement distributed by the government, the department said marking centres will become operational between 26 and 28 November.
How are the 2026 matric exams going?
The department said it was pleased with the administration of the exams and was intensifying preparations for marking. It did not report any paper leaks or major disruptions in the statement.
It urged provincial departments and exam centres to stay vigilant about heat, heavy rain and thunderstorms. Parts of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West and the Northern Cape were singled out for extreme temperatures. Centres were told to ensure ventilation, safe drinking water and working sanitation.
Why is absenteeism a concern?
The department said it remains concerned about absenteeism among registered candidates, particularly part-time candidates, and appealed to them to attend. It gave no absenteeism figures. Pre-exam reports by SAnews put full-time candidates at 815,051 and part-time candidates at 147,781.
What happens next with the matric exams?
The department reminded candidates of the examination pledge and warned that dishonesty, unauthorised assistance or possession of prohibited material would undermine the qualification’s credibility. The marking dates are the department’s own schedule and may change.
FAQ
When does marking of the 2026 matric exams start?
The department says marking is expected to start on 1 December, with centres operational from 26 to 28 November.
Which provinces face extreme heat during the 2026 matric exams?
The department named parts of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West and the Northern Cape.
Why does the department mention part-time candidates?
It said absenteeism is persistent among registered candidates, particularly those studying part-time.
