Lost Matric Certificate: How to Apply for a Replacement in 2026

Losing your Matric certificate (Grade 12 certificate) can affect job applications, further study, and official verification of your qualification.

If your certificate was lost, stolen, or damaged, you can apply for a replacement certificate through official government channels.

What Happens If You Lose Your Matric Certificate?

Your original National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Senior Certificate (SC) is an official national document.

If it is lost or damaged, you can request a replacement through the Department of Basic Education (DBE) or the provincial education department where you live.

The replacement process ensures that your qualification remains recognised and valid.

Who Issues Replacement Matric Certificates?

For certificates issued since 1992, the quality assurance body Umalusi handles replacement requests.

You can apply online using Umalusi’s online application system.

If your certificate was issued before 1992, you must apply through the Department of Basic Education (DBE) or your Provincial Education Department (PED) office.

What Documents Do You Need to Apply?

To apply for a replacement certificate, you must prepare the following supporting documents:

1. A sworn affidavit explaining how your certificate was lost or damaged. This is usually sworn at a police station or with a Commissioner of Oaths.
2. A certified copy of your South African identity document (ID).
3. The original certificate if it was damaged (not applicable if it is lost).
4. Proof of payment of the prescribed fee.

How Do You Apply for a Replacement Certificate?

There are two main ways to apply:

1. Online through Umalusi

• Register an account on the official Umalusi online portal for replacement certificates.
• Complete the replacement form and upload digital copies of your affidavit, certified ID copy, and proof of payment.
• Choose whether you want to collect the certificate from the Umalusi office or have it couriered to you.

2. In Person at a DBE or PED Office

• Visit your nearest Department of Basic Education or Provincial Education Department office.
• Request the replacement form, complete it, and submit it with your affidavit, certified ID copy, proof of payment, and damaged certificate if applicable.
• This process also applies if your certificate was issued before 1992.
  

How Much Does It Cost?

The replacement certificate fee set by the Department of Basic Education is currently around R170 for the certificate.

If you also request a statement of results, there may be an additional fee (often around R60).

These fees are valid until March 31, 2026 and may change after that.

If you use Umalusi’s online replacement service, fees may vary slightly depending on whether you choose to collect the certificate in person or have it couriered to your address.

How Long Does It Take to Get Your Replacement?

The processing time normally takes four to six weeks once your application is submitted and all documents are in order.

If your records are not yet digitised or archived, it may take longer for officials to locate them and issue your replacement.

Can You Get a Statement of Results While You Wait?

Yes. You can request your Matric statement of results immediately while waiting for your replacement certificate.

This can help with job applications or admissions while you wait for the full certificate to be printed and issued.

What If You Need the Certificate Urgently?

If you have urgent deadlines for study or work, it is best to apply as soon as possible.

Submit all required documents correctly the first time. Incorrect or missing documents can delay processing.

If you need evidence of your qualification quickly, the statement of results is usually available faster than the printed certificate.

Do You Need a Police Affidavit?

Yes. A police affidavit explaining how your matric certificate was lost or damaged is a key requirement for the replacement application.

This sworn statement helps confirm the circumstances under which the certificate is no longer available and must be included with your application.

What If Your Certificate Was Issued by IEB or SACAI?

If your Matric certificate was issued by a private assessment body like the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) or the South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute (SACAI), you must contact those bodies directly for replacement.

Their processes, contact details, and fees are separate from the Department of Basic Education and Umalusi.

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