As the countdown begins for the 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube expresses confidence in the department’s readiness to manage this pivotal event. With over 700,000 learners registered to sit for the exams, this year’s NSC promises to be a significant milestone for South Africa’s education system.
A total of 732,448 full-time candidates have registered, reflecting an increase of 8,400 compared to last year, alongside 136,195 part-time candidates. The examination period will commence on Monday, October 21, 2024, and conclude during the final week of November 2024. With more than 800,000 matric candidates participating at over 6,900 exam centers nationwide, meticulous planning is crucial to ensure a smooth examination process.
Key Changes in the 2024 Matric Exam Timetable
This year’s timetable introduces several notable changes, particularly the scheduling of Computer Applications Technology (CAT) and Information Technology (IT) practicals, which will take place in the first week of the examinations. Additionally, all official language papers will begin with Paper 3.
Despite the department’s preparedness, there are ongoing concerns regarding the security, transportation, and printing of exam papers—issues that have plagued past examinations. The Minister emphasizes the future goal of digitizing exam management to mitigate human errors and streamline processes.
“Of course, you can’t necessarily anticipate unfortunate circumstances… one of the things that we would really want to do is to see how we digitize a lot more… the management of the exam process… so that we can also come to the 21st century and minimize human manipulation in that process,” Gwarube stated.
Important Dates for the 2024 Matric Results
The announcement of the final matric results is scheduled for Thursday, January 15, 2025. During this event, Minister Gwarube will disclose provincial pass rates and performance categories. Matriculants can collect their results on Friday, January 16, 2025, either at their schools, examination centers, or online.
Here’s a brief overview of the full results release schedule:
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Matric Exam Marks Are Captured | December 16, 2024 |
| Pre-standardisation meeting | December 22-23, 2024 |
| Umalusi standardisation meeting | December 24, 2024 |
| National Examination Irregularities Committee (NEIC) meeting | December 28, 2024 |
| Umalusi Approval of Results | January 7, 2025 |
| Minister Announcement of Matric Exam Results | January 15, 2025 |
| Provincial Release of Results | January 16, 2025 |
Preparing for the Matric Exams
In the lead-up to the exams, learners are encouraged to prepare thoroughly. The Careers Portal offers an array of resources, including matric past papers, to assist grade 12 students in their preparation. By providing access to vital study materials, the portal aims to ensure that all learners are well-equipped to tackle their final examinations.