If your matric results weren’t what you hoped for, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of South African learners feel stuck after Grade 12, unsure of what to do next.
The good news? You’re not out of options. A matric rewrite gives you a real opportunity to improve your results and open doors to further study or better career options.
In this guide, we’ll explain what a matric rewrite is, how it works, who qualifies for a matric rewrite, and whether age matters. We’ll also look at how institutions like REGENT can support you on your second chance journey.
What is a matric rewrite?
A matric rewrite allows learners who already wrote their National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams to rewrite matric subjects they did not pass or want to improve.
This option is ideal if you:
- Failed one or more Grade 12 subjects.
- Want higher marks for university or college entry.
- Need a Bachelor’s Pass.
- Want to improve subjects like Physical Sciences or Maths.
A matric rewrite is different from repeating Grade 12. You only rewrite the subjects you choose, not the entire year.
How does a matric rewrite work?
A matric rewrite is managed through the Department of Basic Education (DBE) or approved exam bodies.
Here’s how it works step by step:
- You already have matric: You must have written Grade 12 before and received official matric results.
- Choose subjects to rewrite: You can rewrite one or more subjects, such as Physical Sciences, Maths, or Accounting.
- Register for the rewrite exam: You register through the Department of Basic Education rewrite system or an approved centre.
- Study and prepare: You prepare for the exams on your own or with academic support.
- Write the rewrite exam: Exams are rewritten on different dates. Make sure you look for dates when registering for the rewrite to make sure you are available during those dates.
- Receive updated results: Your new marks replace your old marks for those subjects.
This process forms part of South Africa’s matric second chance programme, which is designed to help learners improve and move forward.
Who qualifies to write matric supplementary exams?
If you’re wondering who qualifies for a matric rewrite, here’s the simple answer:
You qualify if you:
- Previously wrote the National Senior Certificate (NSC).
- Failed one or more Grade 12 subjects.
- Passed but want better marks.
- Need to meet matric rewrite requirements in South Africa for university or college entry.
This includes learners who narrowly missed a Bachelor’s Pass or those upgrading results to meet admission requirements.
Is there an age limit for rewriting matric?
A common question is about the matric rewrite age limit. The good news is that there is no age limit for rewriting matric in South Africa.
Whether you’re 18, 25, or 45, you can rewrite matric subjects as long as you meet the basic requirements. Many adults choose to rewrite matric later in life to:
- Change careers
- Study further
- Improve job prospects
Learning truly has no expiry date.
How long does it take to get your matric certificate after rewriting?
After you write your rewrite exam, results are usually released within 6–8 weeks, depending on the exam session.
Once your results are finalised:
- Your updated marks are added to your record.
- Your matric certificate reflects the improved results.
- The original certificate does not show failed attempts.
This means your final certificate only shows your best results, not your previous marks.
FAQ
Does a matric rewrite show on my certificate?
No. Your certificate does not show that you rewrote subjects. It only shows your final marks for each subject.
What’s the difference between a matric upgrade vs rewrite
The key differences between matric rewrite and upgrade are the following:
- Matric rewrite: You rewrite subjects you already wrote in Grade 12.
- Matric upgrade: You improve or add specific Grade 12 subjects (such as Mathematics or Physical Sciences) through approved exam bodies, rather than rewriting your entire matric. This option is useful if you want to qualify for further study that requires specific subjects or higher marks.
For most learners, a rewrite is the faster option.
Can a matric rewrite help me get a Bachelor’s Pass?
Yes. Improving key subjects can help you meet the requirements for a Bachelor’s Pass and access degree studies. Similarly, it can also help you get a Higher Certificate and Diploma Pass if that’s all you require.
Have a look at NQF levels and how your matric results affect what you can study.
Study further with REGENT
A matric rewrite can be your stepping stone to higher education. Once you’ve improved your results, REGENT Business School offers a range of undergraduate qualifications designed to help you move forward, from higher certificates to diplomas and degrees.
If you didn’t get the results you wanted the first time, that doesn’t define your future. A matric rewrite gives you a real second chance — and with the right support, it can be the start of a brand-new chapter.
