Matric Results 2026: How and When to Check Your NSC Results
The 2026 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations are written in October and November 2026. Results are announced by the Minister of Basic Education in January 2027. This page explains exactly how to check your results, what your statement of results means, and what to do if there is a problem with your marks.
Results for the 2026 matric class will be available in January 2027. Set a reminder and keep your ID number handy.
When Are Matric Results Released?
NSC results are traditionally announced on the first Thursday of January each year. For the 2026 matric class, results are expected to be released in early January 2027. The Minister of Basic Education holds a national press conference and the results are simultaneously released online and via SMS.
Provincial results may be released at provincial level before or on the same day as the national announcement. Check your provincial education department website for your province-specific release.
How to Check Your Results via SMS
The quickest way to check your matric results is via SMS. This service is available from the results release date.
- Open your SMS application on any mobile phone.
- Type: NSC followed by a space and then your 13-digit South African ID number.
- Send the SMS to 35658.
- A response SMS with your subject results will be sent back to you. Standard SMS rates apply.
How to Check Your Results Online
- Visit www.education.gov.za on the results release date
- Click on the NSC Results link on the homepage
- Enter your exam number or ID number as prompted
- View and download your statement of results
- Results may also be available through your provincial education department website
Understanding Your Statement of Results
Your NSC statement of results shows each subject you wrote and the percentage mark and performance level (1 to 7) achieved. A pass requires a minimum of 40% in your Home Language and 30% in any other three subjects, plus meeting the overall NSC pass requirements.
A Bachelors pass (University entrance) requires 40% or more in four designated subjects, plus a minimum of 50% in four other subjects with specific combinations.
| Level | Description | Percentage Range |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | Outstanding achievement | 80-100% |
| 6 | Meritorious achievement | 70-79% |
| 5 | Substantial achievement | 60-69% |
| 4 | Adequate achievement | 50-59% |
| 3 | Moderate achievement | 40-49% |
| 2 | Elementary achievement | 30-39% |
| 1 | Not achieved | 0-29% |
Do not delay applying for a re-mark if you suspect an error. Deadlines are strictly enforced and no exceptions are made after the closing date.
What to Do If Your Results Seem Wrong
If you believe there is an error in your results, you can apply for a re-mark or a clerical re-check of your scripts. Applications for re-marks must be submitted to your provincial education department within the window period advertised after results release (usually within 30 days).
A re-check verifies that all answers were marked and totalled correctly. A re-mark involves a second examiner re-assessing your work. Fees apply for re-marks. Contact your district office or visit www.education.gov.za for the current fees and application process.
Collecting Your Certificate
Your NSC certificate is issued by Umalusi, the Council for Quality Assurance in General and Further Education and Training. Certificates are distributed to schools for collection. Contact your school or the district education office where you were registered to collect your certificate.