Matric Results 2026: How to Combine Two Certificates
If you wrote your Matric (National Senior Certificate) more than once, for example, you rewrote subjects or upgraded your results, you may end up with two separate certificates.
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?
To make your qualification easier to use for work, study or bursary applications, you can combine your results into one official certificate.
What Does Combining Two Matric Certificates Mean?
Combining Matric certificates refers to merging your results from multiple exam sittings into one single National Senior Certificate (NSC) that reflects your best subject marks from all sittings.
This final certificate is issued by the education quality council, Umalusi, on behalf of the Department of Basic Education.
Who Qualifies to Combine Matric Certificates in 2026?
You may qualify to combine your Matric results if:
- You rewrote one or more subjects after your original Matric exam.
- You improved your marks in later sittings or adult Matric programmes.
- You have separate NSC certificates from different years that you want consolidated.
However, if you already achieved a Bachelor’s Degree pass in your first Matric sitting, your results generally cannot be combined because there would be no higher qualification to reflect in a combined certificate.
What Documents Do You Need to Apply?
To apply for a combined Matric certificate, prepare the following:
- Certified copy of your South African identity document (ID).
- Original Matric certificates and/or statements of results from all your sittings that you want combined.
- Proof of payment for the combination service.
These documents are required when you complete the official application form.
How Do You Apply to Combine Your Certificates?
You have several options for submitting your application:
1. Online via e‑Services:
- Visit the South African e‑Government Portal at www.eservices.gov.za.
- Register or log in.
- Complete the e‑Matric e‑Reissue / Change of Status application.
- Upload your certified ID, all results, and proof of payment.
2. In Person at a DBE or PED Office:
- Visit your nearest Department of Basic Education (DBE) or Provincial Education Department (PED) office.
- Submit your completed form with all documents and proof of payment.
3. By Post:
- Download the application form from DBE or SACAI sources.
- Attach certified copies of your documents and proof of payment.
- Post to the address indicated on the form (e.g., Private Bag X895, Pretoria, 0001).
How Long Does the Process Take?
The processing time for a combined certificate can vary:
- Standard combination processing through the DBE or e‑services typically takes four to six weeks once all documents are submitted correctly.
- If handled through SACAI (South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute) after verification, it can take up to 12 weeks because certificates are first issued annually before the combination can proceed.
How Much Does It Cost?
Under official DBE guidance, the fee for combining certificates (“Replacement certificate: change of status”) is approximately R170, and if you request a combined statement of results while waiting, there may be an additional fee (about R60).
These fees apply to the 2025–2026 period and may be updated annually.
Will the Final Certificate Show All Results?
The new combined certificate will display your best subject marks from all the sittings included in the application.
It replaces the previous separate certificates and is recognised for study, work, and official purposes.
When Should You Apply?
You should apply only after you have received all individual certificates or statements of results for the sittings you want combined.
Because Umalusi certificates are usually issued mid‑year for each exam cycle, some applications are best submitted after all documents are available.
Can You Use Separate Certificates While Waiting?
Yes. If you have not yet received the combined certificate when deadlines (for university or jobs) approach, you may request a combined statement of results from the DBE or SACAI.
This letter or statement can be used temporarily as proof that your combined certificate is being processed.
What Happens if Your Application Is Incomplete?
If documents are missing, uncertified, or the payment proof is incorrect, your application could be delayed or returned.
Ensure certified copies and accurate submissions to avoid processing delays.
FAQs
1. Can two Matric certificates be combined into one official NSC?
Yes. You can apply to combine separate Matric results into one official National Senior Certificate.
2. Who issues the combined Matric certificate?
The combined certificate is issued by Umalusi through the Department of Basic Education.
3. Do I need certified copies of my ID and certificates?
Yes. Certified copies are required for the application.
4. Can I combine certificates if I already have a Bachelor’s pass?
No. If your first sitting resulted in a Bachelor’s pass, your results usually cannot be combined.
5. How long does it take to get the combined certificate?
It usually takes four to six weeks once the application is submitted correctly, but can take longer in some cases.
6. Can I apply online to combine my certificates?
Yes. The application can be done online through the e‑Government Portal.
7. What documents must I include in my application?
Include your certified ID, all certificates or statements from separate sittings, and proof of payment.
8. Can I get a statement of combined results while waiting?
Yes. You can request a combined statement of results for immediate use.
9. Where can I submit my combination application in person?
You can submit it at a local DBE office or Provincial Education Department office.
10. Does combining results affect my university applications?
No. A combined certificate is recognised by universities and employers and makes applications easier.
