Western Cape aiming for above 80% matric pass rate
The Department of Basic Education confirmed that the matric results will be published in newspapers next week
Image: File
As the countdown begins to the release of the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) results, thousands of matriculants and their families across South Africa are bracing for what is often one of the most emotionally charged moments of a learner’s school career.
The results of the November 2025 examinations will be released on 13 January 2026, with candidates able to access their results online from 10am, or collect their original statements of results from their writing venues or schools.
In the Western Cape, the Department of Education says it is optimistic about this year’s cohort.
Western Cape Education Department (WCED) spokesperson Bronagh Hammond said the department is aiming to achieve a pass rate of above 80% for the 2025 NSC.
Unlike some other provinces, the WCED releases both school and individual results later to ensure that adequate systems are in place to support learners.
Hammond explained that the delay allows schools time to review results, raise concerns where necessary, and prepare psycho-social support for learners who may not have achieved the outcomes they were hoping for.
“This approach ensures that support structures are in place for those who need assistance in processing their outcomes and planning their next steps,” she said.
For learners who do not meet the requirements to pass matric, the department has emphasised that results do not define a learner’s future.
Hammond said learners and parents are encouraged to make use of the wide range of resources available through schools and the WCED.
“There are opportunities to re-write examinations in May/June next year,” she said.
“Additional tutoring sessions will be held through the Second Chance Matric programme, along with various tools, resources and programmes available on our website and e-portal.”
The WCED also closely analyses results at both subject and school level. This involves collaboration between schools, subject advisors, district officials and head office.
Based on these analyses, targeted intervention programmes are developed to address specific gaps, whether in teaching practices, curriculum content or individual subjects.
“These initiatives ensure that interventions are focused where they are most needed to improve learner outcomes,” Hammond added.
Contained in the statement of results pack will be information on rewrites, remarks and the viewing of scripts. The department has also appealed to candidates to celebrate responsibly once results are released.
“There is sure to be a lot of nerves leading up to the 13th and a lot of celebration thereafter,” Hammond said. “We are rooting for all our candidates.”
The release of results has once again placed the spotlight on the legal debate around publishing matric outcomes.
Gauteng Department of Education spokesperson Steve Mabona confirmed that results will be available in newspapers, only using candidates’ examination numbers.
For learners, however, the waiting period is deeply personal.
Tiara Rohma (18) from Belhar High School said she feels confident she will pass, but uncertainty around her final marks has been stressful.
“Right now I am a bit anxious, as anyone else would be,” she said. “I know that I am going to pass, but it’s about knowing how well I did.”
Rohma said family support has been key, particularly her sister Tanya, who was the first in the family to attend university. Rohma has applied to study biotechnology and is awaiting her final results, which she said has added to the pressure.
Reece Daniels from Delft High School described the wait as emotional and symbolic of the end of a demanding school journey.
While he remains hopeful about his results, financial constraints may delay his plans to study further. His long-term goal is to pursue teaching and give back to his community.
Others feel more settled.
Kristi-Joy Williams from Groote Schuur High School said she feels calm and confident based on her exam performance and year-long assessment.
“I’m fairly positive. I’m not anxious at all. I know what my marks might look like, based on the mock exams and past term marks. she said.
Williams, who will be studying at Stellenbosch University this year, said her coping mechanism is to not think negatively.
“I aim to think positively and also, I have God on my side and I know He won't forsake me.”
Mental-health organisations are urging families and schools to be especially attentive during this period. Roshni Parbhoo-Seetha, SADAG Project Manager for Education, said the waiting phase often places immense emotional strain on young people.
“For many learners, this waiting period can feel incredibly heavy, almost as if their entire future is resting on one set of results,” she said. “What learners are feeling right now is completely normal, and they don’t have to go through it alone.”
Parbhoo-Seetha noted that anxiety while waiting for results can sometimes be worse than receiving them.
She advised learners to take one day at a time, maintain routines, talk to trusted people, and limit constant checking of social media or messages.
“Most importantly, remember that your matric results do not define who you are or what you’re capable of. This is one chapter of your life, not the whole story,” she said.
She also stressed the critical role parents and guardians play once results are released.
“The first response from a parent really, really matters,” she said. “Even when you’re worried or disappointed, what your child needs most is to feel safe and supported.”
Parbhoo-Seetha urged parents to listen before offering solutions, avoid comparisons, and reassure learners that love and support are not dependent on marks.
She warned families to be alert to early signs of distress, including withdrawal, drastic mood changes, disrupted sleep or appetite, feelings of hopelessness, or sudden emotional shutdown.
“Any talk about wanting to disappear, feeling like a burden, or self-harm should always be taken seriously and acted on immediately,” she said.
SADAG offers free, confidential support for learners and families through its 24-hour suicide crisis line on 0800 567 567, or via WhatsApp on 076 882 2775.
“You don’t have to be in crisis to reach out,” Parbhoo-Seetha said.
“Sometimes just talking things through can make a huge difference. At the end of the day, matric results are important, but they are not worth a young persons life.”
tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za