Checking your matric results can feel stressful — especially if you’re unsure where to look or which websites to trust. Whether you’re a learner, parent, or guardian, this guide explains how to check matric results online in South Africa safely and correctly.
We cover official government platforms, SMS options, common problems, and what to do after receiving your results.
When Are Matric Results Released in South Africa?
Matric results are released by the Department of Basic Education (DBE), usually in January each year.
- Results are first sent to schools
- Online platforms open shortly after
- Official statements are collected from schools
📌 Release dates may change yearly, so always rely on official announcements.
Method 1: Check Matric Results on the DBE Website
The DBE provides the main official platform for viewing matric results.
Steps:
- Visit the Department of Basic Education website
- Click on “Matric Results”
- Enter your:
- Examination number
- ID number
- Submit to view your results
⚠️ During peak times, the site may load slowly.
Method 2: Check Matric Results via the SA Government Portal
The South African Government website also publishes matric results.
Steps:
- Go to the official SA Government website
- Navigate to Education → Matric Results
- Enter your examination number
- View your subject results online
This platform is safe, free, and reliable.
Method 3: Check Matric Results via SMS
If you don’t have internet access, SMS is a useful option.
How it works:
- Via SMS Send your ID number and exam number via SMS to 35658. Both numbers must have 13 digits to be accepted, and there is a once-off cost of R3 to register. Once registration is completed, the results will be delivered by SMS when they are released.
📱 Standard SMS rates apply, and delays may occur on release day.
Method 4: Collect Results from Your School
Your school remains the most important source of official results.
Why this matters:
- Schools issue the official statement of results
- Online results are not certificates
- You need the statement for:
- College applications
- Learnerships
- Bursaries
- Jobs
What You Need to Check Matric Results Online
Prepare the following:
- Examination number
- South African ID number
- Phone or internet access
If you’ve lost your exam number, contact your school or provincial education department.
Can You Check Old Matric Results Online?
Recent matric results are easier to find online.
For older results, you may need to:
- Contact the DBE
- Apply through Umalusi for verification
- Provide certified documents
Understanding Your Matric Results
Your results show:
- Subjects and marks
- Achievement levels (1–7)
- Overall pass status
Common Pass Types:
- Bachelor’s Pass
- Diploma Pass
- Higher Certificate Pass
- NSC Pass
Each pass allows different study and career opportunities.
Your matric pass level affects which training programmes you qualify for.
👉 learnerships, internships, and TVET options
What to Do After Checking Your Results
Once you have your results, it’s important to understand all your available options before applying.
Once you have your results, you can:
- Apply to TVET colleges
- Apply for SETA learnerships
- Apply for internships
- Apply for bursaries
- Upgrade subjects if needed
Matric is a starting point, not the end of your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I check matric results using my ID number only?
No. You usually need your examination number. Your ID may be required for verification.
2. Are matric results free to check online?
Yes. Official platforms do not charge fees.
3. What if my matric results are incorrect?
Report the issue to your school or provincial education department immediately.
4. Can parents check matric results?
Yes, as long as they have the learner’s exam number.
5. Are online matric results final?
Online results are preliminary. The official statement from your school is final.
6. What should I do if I fail matric?
You still have options, including:
- Rewriting subjects
- TVET colleges
- Learnerships
- Skills programmes
Many learners still qualify for skills programmes and workplace training.
7. Is it safe to check matric results on social media links?
No. Avoid unofficial links — use government websites only.
Final Reminder
Always use trusted, official platforms to check matric results online. Avoid scams, paid services, and websites asking for personal documents.
Your results are important — protect your information and plan your next step carefully.
