South Africa Prepares Record Full-Time Matric Cohort for Exams
South Africa's Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube said 815,051 full-time pupils are ready for matric exams beginning 13 October. Including 147,781 part-time candidates, total registrations reach 962,832, with results scheduled for 8 January 2027. About 7,100 exam centres and 51,104 markers will support the process, though Umalusi has flagged shortages in some subjects.
South Africa's education minister, Siviwe Gwarube, briefed reporters in Pretoria on 11 October. She said 815,051 full-time candidates will write the National Senior Certificate, the country's school-leaving qualification, the largest full-time group so far. That full-time group is 48,508 larger than in 2025. Another 147,781 part-time registrations bring the total to 962,832.
Papers are scheduled from 13 October to 26 November. Roughly 7,100 centres and 51,104 markers will handle the process. Umalusi, which approves papers and results, reported broader figures: 1,079,879 candidates across 9,183 centres. It noted shortfalls of markers in English Home Language, Afrikaans Home Language and History.
The exams may shape university access and job prospects for nearly a million candidates, affecting families, schools, and employers. Marker shortfalls in some subjects could complicate marking timelines or quality, though the regulator described readiness as generally adequate. Results due in January 2027 may influence tertiary admissions and labour-market entry, while the record cohort could intensify pressure on places and support services.