HOW-TO

How to Apply for a Matric Rewrite or Supplementary Exam

A step-by-step guide on how to apply for a matric rewrite or supplementary exam, including eligibility, registration, and support options.

Step by step

1. Check your eligibilityYou may qualify if you failed one or more subjects, missed an exam for a valid reason, need to complete outstanding subjects, or want to improve a mark for study or work. NSC candidates from 2008 onward can typically rewrite — confirm your case with the DBE.
2. Decide which subjects to takeChoose the subjects that will make the biggest difference to your goal, whether that is meeting a university requirement or completing your certificate. Focusing on fewer subjects you can prepare for well often beats spreading yourself thin.
3. Gather what you needHave your South African ID and your previous matric statement of results ready. If you cannot find your statement, request one from a DBE office first — see our statement of results guide.
4. Register on timeRegister online via the e-services portal at eservices.gov.za, or in person at your nearest DBE district office or an accredited examination centre. Windows are strict and set yearly, so confirm the current dates early.
5. Join the Second Chance supportThe DBE Second Chance Programme is free and offers face-to-face tutoring at selected centres plus video lessons and broadcast resources. Enrol in the support for the subjects you are rewriting to lift your odds.
6. Confirm the exam timetableNote whether your subjects fall in the supplementary or the May/June cycle and check the official timetable. Confirm your exam centre, dates, and reporting times well before the first paper.
7. Collect your new resultsAfter the exams, check your results through official channels and request an updated statement or certificate. Your improved marks can then be used for applications — see how to check matric results.

If you missed the marks you needed, the Second Chance Programme and supplementary exams offer a path to rewrite or improve your matric subjects. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a matric rewrite or supplementary exam.

Whether you failed a subject, missed an exam, or want to achieve a better mark for study or work, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) provides opportunities to improve your matric results. This guide will walk you through the process, from eligibility to registration and support options.

### Who is eligible to apply for a matric rewrite or supplementary exam?

Who is eligible to apply for a matric rewrite or supplementary exam?

If you didn’t achieve the matric results you hoped for, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) offers opportunities to rewrite or improve your matric subjects through the Second Chance Programme and supplementary exams. Understanding your eligibility is the first step toward registering.

You may qualify to apply for a matric rewrite or supplementary exam if you meet any of the following criteria:

• You failed one or more subjects in your final matric exams.
• You missed an exam due to a valid reason, such as illness or a family emergency.
• You need to complete outstanding subjects to obtain your National Senior Certificate (NSC).
• You want to improve your marks to meet university admission requirements or to enhance your employment prospects.

Candidates who wrote the NSC from 2008 onward are typically eligible to rewrite. However, it’s important to confirm your specific case with the DBE, as there may be additional considerations based on your individual circumstances.

To help you understand the eligibility and requirements, here is a summary of the key details:

Remember, the DBE’s Second Chance Programme is provided free of charge, offering valuable support to help you succeed. Be sure to check the official website for the current registration window and exam-entry details.

### What subjects can I rewrite or take as a supplementary exam?

What subjects can I rewrite or take as a supplementary exam?

If you are considering a matric rewrite or supplementary exam, You should understand which subjects are eligible for these opportunities. The Department of Basic Education (DBE) offers the Second Chance Programme to help candidates improve their matric results, and this includes rewriting failed subjects or taking supplementary exams for subjects you may have missed.

You can rewrite or take supplementary exams for a variety of subjects, provided you meet certain eligibility criteria. Typically, candidates who have failed one or more subjects, missed an exam for a valid reason, need to complete outstanding subjects, or wish to improve their marks for further study or employment are eligible. This applies to candidates who wrote the National Senior Certificate (NSC) from 2008 onward.

To help you decide which subjects to focus on, consider the following:

• University Requirements: Identify the subjects required for your desired field of study at university and prioritize those.
• Career Goals: If you have specific career aspirations, focus on subjects that are essential for those careers.
• Strengths and Weaknesses: Choose subjects you are confident you can improve in with additional effort and support.
• Number of Subjects: It is often more effective to rewrite a few subjects you can prepare for well rather than spreading yourself too thin across many subjects.

To give you a clearer picture of the subjects you can rewrite or take as a supplementary exam, refer to the table below for a summary of the key details:

Remember to confirm your eligibility and the specific subjects you can rewrite or take as a supplementary exam by visiting the official DBE website at eservices.gov.za. This will ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information for your matric rewrite or supplementary exam registration.

### What documents do I need to apply for a matric rewrite or supplementary exam?

What documents do I need to apply for a matric rewrite or supplementary exam?

When applying for a matric rewrite or supplementary exam through the Department of Basic Education’s Second Chance Programme, You should have the right documents ready. This ensures a smooth registration process and helps you avoid any delays. Here are the key documents you will need:

• South African ID: You must provide a valid South African ID to prove your identity and eligibility for the programme.
• Previous Matric Statement of Results: This document is essential as it details the subjects you have already taken and the marks you received. If you do not have your statement of results, you can request a copy from a DBE office.

If you have lost your matric statement of results, you should obtain a new copy before attempting to register for a rewrite or supplementary exam. This can be done by visiting your nearest DBE office and following their procedure for requesting a replacement statement.

Plus, you should be aware of the eligibility criteria for the matric rewrite or supplementary exam. You may qualify if you:

• Failed one or more subjects in your matric exams.
• Missed an exam for a valid reason.
• Need to complete outstanding subjects to obtain your National Senior Certificate (NSC).
• Want to improve your marks for further study or employment opportunities.

Candidates who wrote the NSC from 2008 onward are typically eligible to rewrite. However, it’s always a good idea to confirm your specific case with the DBE.

To help you understand the requirements better, here is a compact table summarizing the key details:

Remember, the registration windows are strict and set yearly, so You should confirm the current dates early and register on time via the e-services portal at eservices.gov.za or in person at your nearest DBE district office or an accredited examination centre.

### How do I register for a matric rewrite or supplementary exam?

How do I register for a matric rewrite or supplementary exam?

If you need to improve your matric results, you can register for a matric rewrite or supplementary exam through the Department of Basic Education’s Second Chance Programme. This programme is designed to support candidates who wish to rewrite subjects they failed, missed due to valid reasons, or want to improve their marks for further studies or employment.

Steps to Register:

1. Check Your Eligibility:

• You may qualify if you failed one or more subjects, missed an exam for a valid reason, need to complete outstanding subjects, or want to improve your marks.
• NSC candidates from 2008 onward are typically eligible. Confirm your specific case with the DBE.

1. Decide Which Subjects to Rewrite:

• Choose the subjects that will have the most significant impact on your goals, whether meeting university requirements or completing your matric certificate.
• Focusing on fewer subjects you can prepare for well is often more effective than spreading yourself too thin.

1. Gather Required Documents:

• Have your South African ID and your previous matric statement of results ready.
• If you cannot find your statement, request a copy from a DBE office. Refer to our guide on obtaining a statement of results.

1. Register for the Exam:

• You can register online via the government e-services portal at eservices.gov.za.
• Alternatively, you can register in person at your nearest DBE district office or an accredited examination centre.
• Registration windows are strict and set yearly, so confirm the current dates early to avoid missing the deadline.

Key Details at a Glance:

1. Join the Second Chance Support:

• The DBE Second Chance Programme is free and provides face-to-face tutoring at selected centres, video lessons, and broadcast resources.
• Enrol in the support for the subjects you are rewriting to increase your chances of success.

By following these steps and use the resources available, you can effectively register for a matric rewrite or supplementary exam and work towards improving your academic standing.

### Is there a fee for rewriting matric subjects or taking supplementary exams?

Is there a fee for rewriting matric subjects or taking supplementary exams?

If you’re considering rewriting matric subjects or taking supplementary exams, you might be wondering about the associated costs. The good news is that the Department of Basic Education’s Second Chance Programme, which supports candidates looking to rewrite or improve their matric subjects, is provided free of charge. This means you won’t have to pay any fees to participate in the programme or to register for the exams themselves.

However, while the programme and exam registration are free, there are some potential costs to be aware of. For instance, if you need to request a copy of your matric statement of results, you may incur a small fee. It’s also important to note that while the Second Chance Programme offers free tutoring and resources, any additional study materials or resources you choose to use may come at a cost.

To help you understand the potential costs and requirements, here is a breakdown of the key details:

When it comes to eligibility, you may qualify to rewrite if you failed one or more subjects, missed an exam for a valid reason, need to complete outstanding subjects, or want to improve a mark for study or work. NSC candidates from 2008 onward can typically rewrite, but it’s always best to confirm your specific case with the DBE.

Remember, the key to success is focusing on the subjects that will make the biggest difference to your goals. Whether you’re aiming to meet university requirements or complete your certificate, concentrating on fewer subjects and preparing well is often more effective than trying to tackle too much at once.

### When is the registration deadline for matric rewrites and supplementary exams?

When is the registration deadline for matric rewrites and supplementary exams?

Registering for a matric rewrite or supplementary exam requires careful attention to deadlines set by the Department of Basic Education (DBE). The registration windows are strict and typically announced annually, so You should confirm the current dates early on the official government website at eservices.gov.za. Missing these deadlines can result in your application not being accepted, so it’s important to plan ahead.

Generally, the registration period for matric rewrites and supplementary exams opens a few months before the exam session. For instance, if you are planning to rewrite your matric subjects in the next exam cycle, you should start monitoring the DBE’s official site for announcements around the opening of the registration window. The DBE usually provides ample notice, but it’s wise to check regularly to avoid missing any updates.

Here are the key steps and deadlines to keep in mind:

• Check Eligibility: Ensure you qualify by having failed one or more subjects, missed an exam for a valid reason, or needing to improve your marks. NSC candidates from 2008 onward are typically eligible.
• Gather Documents: Have your South African ID and previous matric statement of results ready. If you need a replacement statement, request it from a DBE office beforehand.
• Register Online or In-Person: You can register via the government e-services portal or in person at a DBE district office or accredited exam centre.
• Join the Second Chance Programme: Consider enrolling in the DBE’s free support programme, which offers tutoring and resources to help you prepare.

To help you understand the requirements and steps involved, here’s a compact summary:

By staying informed and preparing your documents in advance, you can ensure a smooth registration process for your matric rewrite or supplementary exam.

### What support is available for candidates rewriting matric subjects?

What support is available for candidates rewriting matric subjects?

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) offers comprehensive support for candidates looking to rewrite matric subjects through the Second Chance Programme. This initiative is designed to provide additional resources and assistance to help you succeed in your exams.

The Second Chance Programme is available at no cost to eligible candidates, making it an invaluable resource for those seeking to improve their matric results. The programme includes face-to-face tutoring at selected centres across the country, allowing you to receive direct support from qualified educators. Plus, the programme offers video lessons and broadcast resources, providing flexible learning options that can fit into your schedule.

To make the most of the support available, consider the following steps:

• Enrol in the Second Chance Programme: Visit a DBE district office or an accredited exam centre to enrol in the programme. This will give you access to tutoring and resources tailored to the subjects you are rewriting.
• use Video Lessons and Broadcasts: Take advantage of the video lessons and broadcast resources provided by the DBE. These materials are designed to reinforce your understanding of key concepts and help you prepare effectively for your exams.
• Attend Tutoring Sessions: If possible, attend the face-to-face tutoring sessions offered at selected centres. These sessions provide an opportunity to ask questions and receive personalised guidance from experienced tutors.

For those who may be unsure about their eligibility or the subjects they should focus on, the following table provides a quick reference guide:

Remember to confirm the current registration window and exam-entry details on the official DBE website to ensure you don’t miss important deadlines. With the right support and preparation, you can improve your matric results and open up new opportunities for your future.

### What is the process for requesting a matric statement of results?

What is the process for requesting a matric statement of results?

If you need to apply for a matric rewrite or supplementary exam, obtaining your matric statement of results is a crucial step. This document provides essential information about your previous exam performance and is required for registration. Here is how you can request your matric statement of results:

To request your matric statement of results, you must follow these steps:

• Visit a Department of Basic Education (DBE) office: You can request your statement in person at your nearest DBE district office. Ensure you bring your South African ID with you.
• Complete the application form: You will need to fill out an application form with your personal details and exam information. This form is usually available at the DBE office.
• Submit the form and pay the fee: Once the form is completed, submit it to the DBE office. There is typically a small fee associated with this request. As of the latest information, the fee is around R55, but it is advisable to confirm the current fee at the time of your request.
• Wait for processing: The processing time for your statement of results is usually a few days. You will be notified when your statement is ready for collection.
• Collect your statement: Return to the DBE office to collect your matric statement of results once it is ready.

If you are unable to visit a DBE office in person, you may also request your statement online. The Department of Basic Education provides an eServices portal where you can apply for your statement of results. Here is a summary of the key details:

Remember, having your matric statement of results is essential for registering for a matric rewrite or supplementary exam. Ensure you have this document ready before proceeding with your application. For more detailed information, visit the official DBE website at https://www.gov.za/services/services-residents/education-and-training/basic-education/register-rewrite-matric-subjects.

If you cannot find your matric statement of results, you can request one from a DBE office. This document is essential for the registration process, as it provides proof of your previous exam attempts and results.

If you cannot find your matric statement of results, you can request one from a DBE office. This document is essential for the registration process, as it provides proof of your previous exam attempts and results. To obtain a replacement statement of results, you will need to follow a specific procedure. First, visit your nearest Department of Basic Education (DBE) district office. You can find the list of district offices on the official DBE website at https://www.gov.za/services/services-residents/education-and-training/basic-education/register-rewrite-matric-subjects.

When you arrive at the DBE office, inform the staff that you need a replacement matric statement of results. You will be required to fill out an application form and provide certain documentation. Here is a list of what you will need to bring with you:

• Your South African ID or a certified copy of it.
• Proof of payment for the replacement statement (if applicable).
• Any other documents requested by the DBE office.

There may be a fee associated with requesting a replacement statement of results. The exact amount can vary, so it is advisable to confirm the current fee with the DBE office. Plus, processing times may vary, so it is recommended to request your replacement statement well in advance of the registration deadline.

For your convenience, here is a table summarizing the key details regarding the replacement of your matric statement of results:

Once you have your replacement statement of results, you can proceed with the registration process for the matric rewrite or supplementary exam. Remember to check the registration deadlines and ensure you have all the necessary documents ready to avoid any delays.

CluedUp is an independent guide and is not affiliated with any government agency. Fees, links and steps can change — always confirm on the official portal before you act. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.