VerifiedMatric candidates take seven subjects: two languages, mathematics or mathematical literacy, Life Orientation and three electives. To obtain the National Senior Certificate, you must pass six of them at set levels. One subject can be failed, as long as it is not your home language.
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The seven subjects
- Home language
- First additional language
- Mathematics or mathematical literacy
- Life Orientation
- Three other subjects
Minimum pass (NSC)
- Home language: at least 40%.
- Two other subjects: at least 40%.
- Three other subjects: at least 30%.
- The seventh subject may be below 30%.
Higher passes for further study
| Endorsement | What it allows you to apply for |
|---|---|
| Higher certificate | Higher certificate programmes |
| Diploma | Diploma programmes, with at least 40% in four subjects including home language |
| Bachelor’s | Degree programmes, with at least 50% in four subjects excluding Life Orientation |
Universities add their own admission points and subject requirements, so meeting the endorsement is only the minimum.
If you do not pass
- Rewrite the subjects you failed in the May/June exams; register at eservices.gov.za.
- You keep the subjects you passed.
- Or consider a TVET college, where the NC(V) accepts Grade 9: what to study without matric.
Frequently asked questions
How many subjects can you fail in matric?
One, provided it is not your home language and you meet the other requirements.
Is Life Orientation counted in matric?
Yes, it is one of the seven subjects, but it is excluded from the four subjects counted for a bachelor’s pass.