These are the two methods that can be used to improve Matric results:
- Matric Rewrite
- Matric Upgrade
Matric Rewrite
Matric Rewrite gives students a second chance to achieve the requirements of a Matric. It is also known as the Second Chance programme. This is because of the second chance that students are given to meet the Matric requirements.
This programme is meant for students within the school system who would recently have completed their Matric year. It is also referred to as the supplementary exam.
Matric Upgrade
Matric Upgrade affords anyone who would have sat for their Matric previously to upgrade their results. This programme goes beyond meeting the requirements of a Matric. This is because affords students the chance to improve or change their subjects
Matric Rewrite
Matric Upgrade
Matric Rewrite
SAQA ID: 49647
Course Credits: 130
NQF Level: Level 4
Certificate Type: National Senior Certificate
Awarded By: Umalusi
Course Duration: 12 – 24 months recommended
Entry Requirements
- An incomplete Matric result or
- Your final Matric results
Course Subjects
Here are the subjects that are offered at Matric College. You can only choose a subject that you would have previously written.
Compulsory
- English Home Language
- English First Additional Language
- Afrikaans Huistaal
- Afrikaans Eerste Addisionele Taal
- isiZulu Home Language
- isiXhosa Home Language
- isiNdebele Home Language
- Sepedi Home Language
- Xitsonga Home Language
- Tshivenda Home Language
- Sesotho Home Language
- Siswati Home Language
- Setswana Home Language
- Mathematics/ Wiskunde
- Mathematical Literacy
Optional
- Physical Sciences
- Life Sciences
- Agricultural Sciences
- Business Studies
- Economics
- Accounting
- History
- Geography
- Religious Studies
Course Subjects
Here are the Matric Rewrite subjects that are offered by the Department of Basic Education:
Compulsory
- Home Language
- First Additional Language
- Maths or Maths Literacy
- Life Orientation
Optional Subjects
Commerce
- Business Studies
- Economics
- Accounting
Life Science
- Biology
- Physics
- Computer Application Technology (CAT)
Travel and Tourism
- Hospitality Studies
- Tourism
Social Science
- History
- Geography
Matric Upgrade
SAQA ID: 49647
Course Credits: 130
NQF Level: Level 4
Certificate Type: Senior Certificate (Amended)
Awarded By: Umalusi
Course Duration: 12 – 24 months recommended
Entry Requirements
- An incomplete Matric result or
- Your final Matric results
Course Subjects
Compulsory
- English Home Language
- English First Additional Language
- Afrikaans Huistaal
- Afrikaans Eerste Addisionele Taal
- isiZulu Home Language
- isiXhosa Home Language
- isiNdebele Home Language
- Sepedi Home Language
- Xitsonga Home Language
- Tshivenda Home Language
- Sesotho Home Language
- Siswati Home Language
- Setswana Home Language
- Mathematics/ Wiskunde
- Mathematical Literacy
Optional
- Physical Sciences
- Life Sciences
- Agricultural Sciences
- Business Studies
- Economics
- Accounting
- History
- Geography
- Religious Studies
Who Qualifies For Matric Rewrite?
School-based learners who want to meet the requirements of a Matric qualify for the Matric Rewrite programme. You qualify for the programme if you meet the following requirements:
- You have an incomplete Matric
- You have failed Matric
- You want to improve your mark. For example, you may have scored 40% in the Physical Science subject, but you need a minimum pass mark of 50% to be admitted to a programme you may want to study.
Is Rewriting Matric A Good Idea?
Yes, rewriting Matric is a good idea. Here is why:
- Increased opportunities – By rewriting your Matric and meeting the requirement of a Matric, you increase your chances of being considered for other opportunities in life that may require someone with a Matric
- Admission to further studies – By meeting the requirements of a Matric, you can be eligible for admission to further studies. This can be college or university further studies depending on your Matric pass level
- Employment opportunities – With a Matric you can be able to secure entry-level jobs or learnerships
How Much Does It Cost To Rewrite Matric?
To rewrite Matric at Matric College, you can find out the cost by contacting one of our course experts. Our friendly course experts will assess your situation and make recommendations that they might find suitable for you. It is only after having a chat with you as regards your career goals that they will be in a position to determine the cost.
What Is The Closing Date For Matric Rewrite 2023?
Registration for Matric rewrite is usually between 1 October and 31 January of the next year. For the 2023 registration, keep your eyes open and ears on the ground so that you can be aware of the actual opening and closing dates of registration.
Can I Rewrite Matric Online?
No, you can not rewrite Matric online. You can only study Matric online. To rewrite Matric, you will have to go to an examination writing centre. These centres are found throughout the country.
Can I Study Matric For 3 Months?
Although possible, there are a lot of factors that come into play. You may need to consider the following:
- Study time
- Number of subjects
- Ability to grasp concepts quickly
How Many Times Can I Rewrite Matric?
You can rewrite Matric as many times as you may want. You however must be under the age of 21.
When Can I Register For Matric Rewrite 2023?
Usually, the registration period for Matric Rewrite is between 1 October and 31 January. However, be on the lookout for announcements from the Department of Basic Education (DBE).
How Do You Prepare For A Matric Rewrite?
Here are a few tips on how you can prepare for a Matric Rewrite:
- Draft a study timetable
- You should make sure that you stick to the timetable
- Make sure that there are no distractions at the place that you use during your studies
- Go through your notes
- Read widely on the subject
- Go through past exam papers
What Happens If I Rewrite Matric And Fail?
It will be possible to rewrite Matric again if you fail the second time. You can rewrite your Matric for as long as you are under the age of 21. In the event that you are now older than 21, you will rewrite under the Matric Upgrade programme.
Again, there is no limit to the number of times that you can rewrite your Matric under the Matric Upgrade programme.
What Are The Types Of Certificates You Can Get In Matric?
Here are the types of certificates that you get in Matric
- Bachelors pass
- Diploma pass
- Higher Certificate pass
- National school Certificate pass
Who Qualifies For Matric Upgrade?
You qualify for Matric Upgrade if you want to achieve the following:
- Add new subjects to your Matric Certificate
- A higher pass level
- Rewrite previously failed subjects
- Change from the original subjects
- Improve the marks that you achieved in your previous sitting
Is Upgrading Matric A Good Idea?
Yes, upgrading Matric is a good idea. Here is why:
- You can add subject/s that are required for you to study for a certain programme. This is made possible by upgrading.
- Although you may have passed, you may have to aim for a higher pass may be because a higher pass is required for, for example, the programme that you want to study at university.
- A Matric also gives you the opportunity to aim for a pass in those subjects that you will have failed in your last sitting. Moving from a fail to a pass can help you achieve the requirements of a Matric.
- By upgrading your Matric, you are able to change your subject/s. For example, certain professions require you to have passed certain subjects. By upgrading no opportunity is lost
- You may have passed but are not happy with the pass mark achieved. A Matric Upgrade can help you achieve this.
Can I Study For My Matric Upgrade Online?
Yes, you can study for your Matric upgrade online. Distance learning is a form of online learning. Matric College offers distance learning programmes including the Matric Upgrade programme.
Online tools are used when you study through distance learning.
Here are the online tools that are used when you study through distance learning:
- Website
- Telephone
How Do I Register For My Matric Upgrade Exams?
Registration for the Matric Upgrade exams is usually from 1 October to 31 January of the next year. However, these dates are always subject to confirmation by the Department of Higher Education and Training. It will be prudent for you to register as soon as the registration window opens. This way, you can be assured to secure a place near to where you reside.
Here are the two ways that you can register for your Matric Upgrade
- Online Registration
- In-person Registration
Online Registration
Here is the link for online registration:
- Visit the e-Government Portal website to register
In-person Registration
- You can also register in-person at the Department of Basic Education provincial, district or circuit offices.
Where Will I Write My Exams?
You will write your exams at an examination centre that is nearest to where you live. It is important to register early so that you write your exam nearest to where you live. When you delay, you can find yourself writing your exam a bit further away from where you live.
How Much Does It Cost To Upgrade Your Matric Results?
To find out the cost of upgrading your Matric you will need to contact one of our friendly course experts. They will discuss with you your plans and your expectation. They will give recommendations on the path that you need to take.
How Long Does It Take?
The recommended duration for the study of Matric Upgrade is 12 -24 months. However, it is also dependent on the following:
- The number of subjects that you are studying
- The number of hours per day that you dedicate to your studies
- Whether you are a quick or slow learner
Can I Upgrade My Matric After 10 Years?
Yes, you can upgrade your Matric after 10 years. There is no limit to the number of years after your last sitting that restricts you from upgrading your Matric. This means that you can upgrade your Matric anytime.
How Many Times Can You Upgrade Matric?
You can upgrade your Matric as many times as you want, there is no limit to the number of times that you can upgrade your Matric.
Do Universities Accept Upgraded Marks?
Yes, universities accept upgraded marks. Remember, the Matric Upgrade programme is an official programme introduced by the South African government through the Department of Higher Education and Training.
It is a programme that is meant to give an opportunity to adults to meet the requirements of a Matric and to pursue tertiary education including studying at the different universities.
How Do I Combine My Matric Results?
To combine your Matric results, you can use any one of the following processes:
- Online
- In-person
Online
When you use the online method, here is what you need to do:
- Download this form
- Attach the required documents
- Certified copy of identity document
- Results from your separate sittings
- Receipt that proves that you have paid
- Upload the form and the documents and submit
In-person
When you want to do it in-person here is what you need to do:
- Visit your nearest Department of Basic Education offices
- You must have your results with you
- A certified copy of your identity document is required
- A receipt that shows that you have paid is also needed
Do You Get Matric Certificate If You Failed?
Yes, you can get a Matric Certificate if you failed your Matric. However, the Certificate would be incomplete as you will have failed to meet the requirements of a Matric. A complete Matric Certificate is one that you will have met the requirements of a Matric.
Can I Go To University With Amended Senior Certificate?
Yes, you can go to university with a Senior Certificate Amended. The Senior Certificate Amended is the same as the National Senior Certificate (NSC). it is a certificate that is recognised by all the universities in the country.
Our Accreditation
SAQA
Both Matric Rewrite and Matric Upgrade fall under the National Qualification Framework (NQF) Level 4. The NQF is administered by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)
DHET
Both Matric Rewrite and Matric Upgrade were originated by the Department of Higher Education and Training
Why You Should Choose To Study Through Distance Learning
Here is why you should choose to study through distance learning:
- Cut costs – There will be no need for you to attend classes. In this way you will cut costs on transport and other associated costs like yeas and lunches
- You can work – When you study through distance learning you can work as well. This is because you do not have any classes to attend. When you are working you can as well use part of your income to pay for your r tuition fees
- There is flexibility – When you study through distance learning, there is flexibility. This is because you can study at the palace that you want. You can set your own study timetable. You can also study wherever you want.
- Free from COVID-19 – When you study through distance learning you can be free from COVID-19 as you do not have to mingle with fellow students and the public.
Benefits Of Studying At Matric College
Here are the benefits of studying through distance learning;
- You are issued with textbooks
- You get expertly written study notes
- Tuition fees are competitive
- Extensive use of online tools to assist you in your studies
- Interaction with fellow students in online groups
- Interaction with your tutors
- Assist you in preparation for your examination
What Are High Credits Subjects
High credit subjects are those subjects that are rated highly when you want to study for a Degree or Diploma.
Languages
- Afrikaans
- English
- IsiNdebele
- IsiXhosa
- IsiZulu
- Sepedi
- Sesotho
- Setswana
- Siswati
- Tshivenda
- Xitsonga
Non-languages
- Accounting
- Agricultural Science
- Business Studies
- Consumer Studies
- Dramatic Arts
- Economics
- Engineering Graphics and Design
- Geography
- History
- Information Technology
- Life Sciences
- Mathematics
- Mathematics Literacy
- Music
- Physical Sciences
- Religion Studies
- Visual Arts
Is 85% A Good Mark?
Yes, 85% is a good mark. With 85% is an outstanding achievement. Here is the full list of the Matric marks, their level and level of achievement:
- Level 7
80 – 100% (A) (Outstanding Achievement)
- Level 6
70 – 79% (B) (meritorious Achievement)
- Level 5
60 – 69% (C) (Substantial achievement)
- Level 4
50 – 59% (D) (Moderate Achievement)
- Level 3
40 – 49% (E) (Adequate Achievement)
- Level 2
30 – 39% (F) (Elementary Achievement)
- Level 1
0 – 29% (G) (Not achieved – Fail)
What Are The Matric Pass Levels For A Matric Upgrade?
There are 4 Matric pass levels:
- Senior Certificate (Amended)/National Senior Certificate Pass Level
- Higher Certificate Pass Level
- Diploma Pass Level
- Bachelor’s Degree Pass Level (Exemption)
Senior Certificate (Amended) Pass
- At least 40% in your home language
- At least 40% in two other subjects
- At least 30% of the remaining subjects
Higher Certificate
- At least 40% in your Home Language
- At least 40% in two other subjects
- At least 30% for the three other subjects
- Note that one of your languages must be either English or Afrikaans
Diploma
- At least 40% in your home language
- At least 40% in four other high credit subjects
- At least 30% in one other subject
Bachelor’s Degree (Exemption)
- At least 40% in your Home Language
- At least 50% in four other high credit subjects
- At least 30% in one other subject
What Is An APS Score?
APS stands for Admission Points Score. Each percentage mark that you get in each of your subjects is scored out of 10. This score determines your eligibility to be admitted to certain study courses. It could be a Bachelors Degree, a Diploma, Higher Certificate or a National Senior Certificate/ Senior Certificate (Amended) pass.
The table below shows how the APS is calculated:
| SYMBOL | MARK | APS SCORE |
| A | 80 – 100% | 7 |
| B | 70 – 79% | 6 |
| C | 60 – 69% | 5 |
| D | 50 – 59% | 4 |
| E | 40 – 49% | 3 |
| F | 30 – 39% | 2 |
| G | 0 – 29% | 1 |
What Is Amended Matric?
People also refer to the Amended Senior Certificate as amended Matric. The Senior Certificate Amended is so-called because this Matric programme for adults was amended in 2014. The programme was amended so that the exams and the curriculum are the same as that of the National Senior Certificate.
The first exam based on the Senior Certificate (as amended) was written in June / July 2015.
What Is The Difference Between Matric Rewrite And Upgrade?
Here are the characteristics of a Matric rewrite and a Matric upgrade:
Matric Upgrade
- There is no age limit for you to do this programme
- You can rewrite as many subjects
- You can change your subjects
- Add new subjects to your Matric Certificate
- Rewrite previously failed subjects
- Change from the original subjects
- Improve the marks that you achieved in your previous sitting
- You can study by distance learning
Matric Rewrite
- You must be 21 years or younger to qualify for this programme
- You can rewrite as many subjects as you wish, but you can only rewrite the subjects you wrote in the previous exam
- You can study on your own
Where Can I Combine My Matric Results?
You can combine your results by making an application at the Department of Higher Education and Training.
Can I Combine A Senior Certificate Amended And A National Senior Certificate?
Yes, you can combine a Senior Certificate Amended and a National Senior Certificate. If you wrote your Matric before 2008, you will be awarded a Senior Certificate Amended. If you wrote your Matric after 2008 you will be awarded a National Senior Certificate
Do Universities Care About Grade 11 Marks?
After completing your Matric, your Grade11 marks are no longer relevant when you are seeking admission to a university. To be admitted to a university must have passed your Matric with a Bachelor’s pass. Here is the minimum pass that you will need to be admitted to a university:
- A minimum of 40% for your home language
- Minimum of 50% for four other high credit subjects
- Minimum of 30% for two other subjects/Minimum of 30% for one other subject (SC (A))
Can I Change My Matric Subjects After Matric?
Yes, you can change your Matric subjects after Matric if you study under the Matric Upgrade programme.
What Happens When I Upgrade My Matric Results?
When you successfully upgrade your Matric results, here are your options:
- Depending on your pass level you can study for the following:
- Bachelors Degree
- Diploma
- Certificate
- Look for employment opportunities
- Seek for learnerships
Can I study Matric With A Grade 9?
Yes, you can study Matric with a Grade 9. This is only possible when you study under the Adult Matric programme. Here is what you need to be able to study Matric with a Garde 9:
- You must be 21 years or older
- Proof that you completed and passed Grade 9
- Be able to study through distance learning
What Is The Difference Between Supplementary And Upgrade?
There is no difference between supplementary and upgrade. They all mean the same thing, that is, to improve your Matric results. The only difference is where the two words are mostly used.
- Supplementary – The word supplementary is mostly used by school-based learners to refer to Matric Rewrite or Second Chance. They inter-change the word with the Matric Rewrite
- Matric upgrade – At Matric College we use the term Matric Upgrade to refer to Matric Rewrite which is also known as supplementary
Author: Collin Wilbesi
Editor: Amy Venter
Date Published: May 20, 2022