2025 Matric Exam Timetable — Key Dates & Highlights

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has officially released the 2025 Matric Exam Timetable, giving Grade 12 learners, teachers, and parents a structured overview of this critical academic period.

Running from Monday, 20 October to Thursday, 27 November 2025, the timetable outlines both written and practical examinations. With thousands of South African learners preparing to sit for their National Senior Certificate (NSC), understanding this schedule is key to success.

Let’s unpack the essential dates, expectations, and study strategies to help you stay ahead this exam season.

Why the 2025 Matric Exam Timetable Matters

The Matric exams are more than just a rite of passage. They are a critical gateway to tertiary education, job opportunities, and scholarships. The 2025 Matric Exam Timetable provides clarity, allowing learners to plan ahead and manage stress effectively.

Each paper has a specific date, time, and duration, making it easier to build a study calendar around actual exam days.

For extra support, check out how DStv provides Matric exam help via WhatsApp and a live TV channel to boost your revision.

When Do the 2025 Matric Exams Start and End?

According to the DBE, the 2025 Matric exams officially begin on Monday, 20 October 2025, with Computer Applications Technology (CAT) Practical Paper 1.

The last scheduled day is Thursday, 27 November 2025, which is reserved for rewrite sessions of CAT and IT practicals. This extended period accommodates theory, practical exams, and rewrites.

Key milestones include:

• Life Orientation (CAT): 1 September 2025
• Pledge Signing Day: 17 October 2025
• Visual Arts & Design Practicals: 14–24 October
• Final Rewrite Sessions: 27 November 2025

Structure of the Matric Timetable: Morning & Afternoon Sessions

Exams are scheduled in two daily sessions:

• Morning session: Starts at 09:00
• Afternoon session: Starts at 14:00

Most exam papers range from 2 to 3 hours, depending on the subject. This dual-slot approach helps manage the volume of papers and gives learners time to rest and prepare between sessions.

Core Subjects Every Matric Learner Must Write

All learners sitting for the NSC exams must complete seven subjects, which include:

1. Two languages, one of which must be the learner’s Home Language
2. Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
3. Life Orientation
4. Three elective subjects, depending on the school’s curriculum

Subjects such as History, Business Studies, Life Sciences, and Geography feature prominently throughout the timetable.

Need practice material? Here’s where to download past Matric exam papers with this complete guide to help you prepare.

Key Exam Days to Note in 2025

Here are some standout days from the 2025 Matric timetable:

• 📅 22 October: IT Practical Paper 1
• 📅 23 October: English HL/FAL/SAL Paper 3
• 📅 30 October: History Paper 1
• 📅 3 November: Mathematics Paper 2, Mathematical Literacy Paper 2
• 📅 12 November: Geography (Climate and Geomorphology)
• 📅 14 November: Life Sciences Paper 1
• 📅 18 November: Geography (Urban and Map Work) Paper 2
• 📅 21 November: Afrikaans HL/FAL/SAL Paper 2

For a full breakdown, refer to the images provided or the DBE’s official exam timetable release.

Pass Requirements for the NSC

Understanding what it takes to pass matric is as important as the timetable itself. Here’s a breakdown of the minimum requirements to earn the National Senior Certificate:

• Pass 6 out of 7 subjects
• 40% or more in Home Language
• 30% or more in two other subjects
• If one subject is below 30%, the learner may still pass with a strong average
• Maintain an overall average of 33.3%

While these are the minimums, learners aiming for university entrance must achieve higher percentages, especially in Mathematics, English, and Science subjects.

Rules and Expectations During Exam Sessions

To ensure exams run smoothly, the DBE has outlined clear rules:

Before the Exam

• Arrive at least 30 minutes early
• Bring necessary stationery, including a calculator where allowed
• Carry a valid ID document
• Dress in full school uniform
• Cover any visible tattoos, as some exam centres require this

During the Exam

• Follow all instructions from invigilators
• Cheating or dishonesty can lead to disqualification
• Use your time wisely — start with easier questions first
• Stay calm and focused throughout

These protocols are in place to maintain fairness and credibility during the exam period.

Top 10 Study Tips for the 2025 Matric Exams

Success doesn’t just come from last-minute cramming. Here are ten proven study tips:

1. Organise your materials before starting any session
2. Stay motivated by visualising your goals
3. Take breaks and change environments
4. Break subjects into manageable sections
5. Use focused study blocks (30–50 minutes)
6. Teach someone else to reinforce your learning
7. Use colour and visuals to improve memory
8. Focus on weak areas but revise strong subjects too
9. Repeat often for better retention
10. Sleep well and drink enough water

Staying consistent and healthy makes a big difference during this high-pressure season.

Extra Learning Support Resources

Learners don’t have to navigate matric alone. There’s a wide range of support platforms available:

• DBE Past Papers: Access previous NSC exams and memos for practice
• Siyavula: Free Maths and Science exercises
• Matric Live: Mobile app with summaries and flashcards
• Fundza Literacy Trust: Helps with essay writing and comprehension
• DBE Exam Tips Booklet: Subject-specific study strategies

Using these platforms regularly can significantly improve your understanding and confidence.

Get ahead with these proven Matric exam study tips to ace your finals and boost your results.

Video Content and Online Tutorials

For visual learners, video resources are a game-changer:

• Quick revision clips on time management
• Tutorials for difficult concepts in Maths, Science, and Accounting
• Motivational talks from past top achievers
• YouTube channels and TikTok explainers that break things down in under 60 seconds

These tools can complement traditional study methods, especially when you’re stuck on a concept.

Preparation is the Key to Success

The 2025 Matric Exam Timetable is not just a schedule; it’s a strategy tool. It helps you visualise your workload, create a realistic study plan, and reduce exam anxiety.

By understanding your key dates, adhering to exam rules, and using the right resources, you’re setting yourself up for academic and personal success.