Second Chance Matric Programme: Who Qualifies for May/June Exams?
The Second Chance Matric Programme 2026 in South Africa gives learners another opportunity to complete or improve their Matric National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Senior Certificate (SC).
Check Your Personalized Bursary Options
Step 1: Choose Study Level
Step 2: Choose Field of Study
Step 3: Describe Your Interest
Tell us if you want bursaries, scholarships, admissions, or student loans?
It is part of the Department of Basic Education’s efforts to boost learner success and help learners meet the requirements of a Grade 12 qualification.
What is the Second Chance Matric Programme?
The Second Chance Matric Programme is an initiative managed by the Department of Basic Education.
It supports learners who have not met the requirements to pass the NSC or SC.
The programme provides academic support, resources, and examination opportunities that help learners rewrite subjects, improve results, and achieve matric certification.
Who Can Apply for the Second Chance Matric Programme?
Learners who want to join the Second Chance Matric Programme may include:
- NSC part-time candidates: Learners who previously attempted the National Senior Certificate after 2008 but did not pass or want to improve their results.
- SC candidates: Adult learners who are working towards the Senior Certificate qualification and may need additional support to pass.
These candidates can register to sit for exams in the May/June cycle to improve results or complete outstanding subjects.
What are the Qualifications for May/June 2026 Exams?
To qualify for the May/June 2026 Second Chance Matric exams, you must fall into one of the following categories:
- NSC part-time candidate: You have previously written the NSC exams and need to rewrite one or more subjects.
- SC candidate: You are taking the Senior Certificate route to complete your Grade 12 qualification or improve your results.
You must register for the May/June exam cycle before the official closing date.
What Subjects are Covered in the Programme?
The programme targets key matric subjects that are critical for certification and future opportunities. These include:
- Â Accounting
- Agricultural Sciences
- Business Studies
- Economics
- English First Additional Language
- Geography
- History
- Mathematics
- Mathematical Literacy
- Physical Sciences
- Life Sciences
The subjects offered may vary depending on the support centres available in your province.
Do You Have to Be in School to Participate?
No. You do not have to be a current school learner to qualify. Many part-time NSC candidates have already left school.
Adults pursuing the Senior Certificate are also eligible.
The programme includes tutoring classes, resources, and support that help learners prepare for the exams even if they are not enrolled in a full-time school programme.
Is the Second Chance Matric Programme Free?
Yes. The Department of Basic Education provides the Second Chance Matric Programme free of charge to eligible learners.
Do not pay private organisations that claim to offer the programme for a fee. Always verify information through official DBE channels.
How Do You Register for the May/June Exams?
To register for the May/June 2026 examinations under the Second Chance Matric Programme:
- Senior Certificate (SC) candidates may register at their nearest district education office or online through the official e-Services portal.
- NSC candidates must register in person at the nearest district office or a registered examination centre.
Registration must be completed within the official registration period before the closing deadline.
What is the Registration Deadline?
The official closing date for Second Chance Matric Programme candidates to register for the May/June 2026 exams is 6 February 2026.
No late registrations are accepted after this date.
Make sure you complete all required documents and submit them before this deadline.
Can You Write More Than One Subject?
Yes. You can register to rewrite one or more subjects under the programme, depending on the gaps in your previous results.
The programme is designed to help you meet the minimum requirements for the NSC or SC qualification by improving specific subjects.
What Happens After You Register?
After you register, you will receive confirmation of your subjects and examination details.
You should prepare for your exams using the study support, classes, and resources available through the programme.
Results are released after the exams, and successful candidates will obtain the NSC or SC qualification if they meet the criteria.
Can Adults Join the Second Chance Matric Programme?
Yes. Adult learners who are 18 years or older and who did not pass their matric or want to upgrade their results can register for the Senior Certificate examinations in the May/June cycle.
This provides a pathway to obtain a recognised qualification even later in life.
FAQs
1. Who qualifies for the Second Chance Matric Programme May/June exams?
Learners who previously attempted NSC exams and want to improve results, and adult SC candidates working towards their Senior Certificate, qualify for the May/June exams.
2. What is the purpose of the Second Chance Matric Programme?
The programme supports learners who have not met NSC or SC requirements by providing academic support and exam opportunities to improve or complete their matric qualification.
3. Is the programme free?
Yes. The Department of Basic Education provides the Second Chance Matric Programme free of charge for eligible learners.
4. When is the closing date for May/June 2026 registration?
The closing date for May/June 2026 registrations is 6 February 2026.
5. Can I register online for the Second Chance Programme?
Senior Certificate candidates can register online via e-Services, but NSC candidates must register in person at a district office.
6. What subjects are offered under the programme?
Subjects include mathematics, mathematical literacy, accounting, business studies, physical sciences, life sciences, and more.
7. Do I have to be currently in school to participate?
No. Part-time candidates and adult learners may participate without being enrolled in full-time school.
8. Can I rewrite more than one subject?
Yes, you may register to rewrite multiple subjects to meet the requirements for certification.
9. Will the programme help me get a matric certificate?
Yes. If you meet the exam requirements after rewriting, you can obtain an NSC or SC certificate.
10. Are there any fees for rewriting subjects?
There are no fees for the Second Chance Matric Programme itself, but examination fees as determined by the DBE may still apply.
