A Matric rewrite can completely change your future. Many learners feel stressed if their first National Senior Certificate (NSC) results are not what they hoped for.
But the good news is that you can improve matric results through a rewrite, upgrade, or even by choosing to rewrite matric online. This gives you a second chance to meet the requirements of the National Senior Certificate and unlock better job opportunities, bursaries, and study options.
Whether you want to enter university, qualify for a higher-level course, or simply feel proud of your achievement, a rewrite can open new academic pathways after matric.
Let’s have a look at what a matric rewrite means and whether you should consider this option.
What does it mean to rewrite matric?
A matric rewrite is when you write certain Grade 12 subjects again to get better marks. The Department of Basic Education allows learners to rewrite one or more subjects if they want higher results.
You keep your matric certificate, but try again to improve your scores so you can meet the requirements for university or career programmes.
Some students rewrite because they failed a subject, while others want a bachelor’s pass. You can rewrite through full-time classes, part-time study, or by joining a second chance matric programme.
Is rewriting matric a good idea? Pros and cons
Rewriting matric is a strong option if you want to improve your marks, access better study opportunities, or boost your future earning potential. But it’s essential to understand both the pros and cons before you decide.
Pros
- Better university and college access: A rewrite can help you raise your marks so you qualify for higher-level programmes. Many students ask, “Can a matric rewrite improve university entry?” Yes, it often does. Higher results can help you meet diploma or bachelor’s degree entry requirements.
- More job opportunities: Some employers look at your Grade 12 marks or pass level. Improving your results can help you stand out and meet the requirements of the national hiring standards in many fields.
- Confidence and motivation: A rewrite gives you a chance to correct past mistakes. Many learners feel more focused the second time and enjoy the sense of achievement.
- Flexible study options: You can choose to attend classes, study part-time, or rewrite matric online. This makes it easier to balance work, family responsibilities, or other commitments.
- Support to learners: Some matric rewrite programmes offer tutoring, guidance, and extra help so students can succeed.
Cons
- Time commitment: A rewrite requires time and dedication. You must stay consistent and manage your workload.
- Extra costs: There may be fees for classes, rewriting exams, or study material. However, usually these costs aren’t very high.
- Emotional pressure: Some students feel stressed about writing exams again. But with the right support, this can be managed.
- Delayed entry into studies: If you rewrite, you may need to wait until your new results are released before applying to a university or college.
Overall, the matric upgrade benefits usually outweigh the challenges — especially if you want more options for your future.
When you upgrade your matric results, what happens to the old ones?
When you improve your matric results, your old results don’t disappear. Instead, the Department of Basic Education combines your new marks with your old ones into a single updated statement. This is called a “combined certificate.”
Your previous marks remain on record, but your improved results are the ones used for university or college applications. This helps you meet the requirements for programmes you could not enter before.
Your original senior certificate (SC) or National Senior Certificate (NSC) is still valid, but the updated one shows your new, higher achievement.
Can I get a bachelor’s degree without a high school diploma?
In South Africa, you cannot get a bachelor’s degree without completing Grade 12 or an equivalent qualification. Universities need you to have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Senior Certificate to apply.
But if you don’t have a bachelor’s pass, you can choose a Matric rewrite South Africa option or join a second chance matric programme to upgrade your results.
Once you improve your marks and meet the bachelor’s pass requirements, you can apply for a university programme that fits your specific field of study.
FAQ
Who qualifies to rewrite matric?
Anyone who has written the NSC or SC and wants to improve their marks can rewrite. This includes learners who failed, learners who passed but want better results, and adults who want new academic pathways after matric.
How many subjects can I rewrite?
You can rewrite one or more subjects. Most students work on the subjects they need to increase their pass level or qualify for university.
Will universities accept rewritten results?
Yes. South African universities and colleges accept rewritten results as long as they are issued by the Department of Basic Education or through a recognised matric rewrite South Africa programme. They look at your final combined marks.
What if I need a bachelor’s pass — can rewriting help?
Absolutely. A rewrite often helps you meet the bachelor’s pass requirements. Many students upgrade their marks to unlock diploma or degree study options and choose higher-level qualifications in their specific field.
Conclusion
A Matric rewrite South Africa option gives you the power to change your future. Whether you want to improve matric results, choose new study paths, or unlock better job opportunities, rewriting gives you the confidence and skills to move forward.
With flexible ways to study — full-time, part-time, or online — you can build a pathway that suits you. No matter where you are starting, a matric rewrite is a valuable second chance that can open doors to new opportunities.
If you’d like to see admission requirements for different undergraduate programmes (so you know whether a matric rewrite is necessary), you can have a look at REGENT’s various degrees, diplomas, and higher certificates.
