Failing Maths in Grade 12 in South Africa might seem like a major setback, but it is not the end of the road. The National Senior Certificate (NSC) is vital for pursuing further education and career opportunities.
While failing Maths can limit your options for university and college admissions, there are alternative pathways to consider. Redoing the subject, for instance, is a common and effective solution. Understanding what options are available, including Grade 12 rewrite programmes, can help you make informed decisions and turn this challenge into an opportunity for success.
Can You Pass Grade 12 In South Africa If You Fail Maths?
Yes, it is possible to pass Grade 12 in South Africa even if you fail maths. However, If you fail maths in Grade 12, you will not be able to meet the minimum requirements for most universities and colleges.
You could improve your results with these courses available at Matric College:
Here is a table providing the course information:
| Course Feature | Matric Rewrite | Matric Upgrade |
| Overview | Gives students a second chance to meet the requirements of Matric. Also known as a second chance Matric programme. | Upgrading Matric means improving marks by adding new subjects, aiming for a higher pass level, or changing subjects. |
| Certificate Type | National Senior Certificate (NSC) | Senior Certificate Amended |
| Awarded By | Umalusi | Umalusi |
| NQF Level | Level 4 | Level 4 |
| SAQA ID | 49647 | 49647 |
| Credits | 130 | 130 |
| Entry Requirements | An incomplete Matric/Grade 12 result or your final Matric results | An incomplete Matric/ Grade 12 result or your final Matric results |
| Subjects Offered | Various compulsory and optional subjects including English, Mathematics, Physical Sciences, etc | Various compulsory and optional subjects including English, Mathematics, Physical Sciences, etc |
| Programme Differences | This can be done immediately after completing Matric, subjects from previous exams only | This can be done at any time with the option to change subjects |
Why Are Grade 12 Maths So Crucial?
Mathematics is a fundamental subject that is essential for many aspects of life, including education, employment, and everyday decision-making. Grade 12 maths is particularly crucial because it builds on the foundation of mathematical knowledge and skills that you have learned throughout your school career.
It also prepares you for more advanced STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects at university and for many careers in these fields. Here are some specific reasons why Grade 12 maths is so crucial:
- It develops your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Maths teaches you how to think logically and solve problems in a step-by-step manner
- Grade 12 maths is a prerequisite for many university and college programs, including engineering, science, business, and computer science
- It gives you a deeper understanding of the world around you
- By learning maths, you gain a deeper understanding of how the world works and how to solve complex problems
How Can Grade 12 Maths Shape One's Tertiary Education And Job Prospects?
Grade 12 maths can shape one’s tertiary education and job prospects in several ways. For example, students who have a strong understanding of maths are more likely to be accepted into their desired university programs and to succeed in their studies. Additionally, students with strong mathematical skills are more likely to be hired for jobs that require these skills.
Tertiary Education
Grade 12 maths is a prerequisite for many university and college programs such as engineering, science, business, and computer science. It provides foundational knowledge and skills needed for these fields. It helps students understand complex concepts and solve difficult problems, giving them a competitive advantage in their studies.
Job Prospects
Employers often seek candidates with strong mathematical skills for jobs like engineers, scientists, accountants, and financial analysts. Maths skills are also an asset in non-traditional maths jobs, such as sales or marketing. Overall, strong mathematical skills can enhance job prospects.
By developing strong mathematical skills, students can increase their chances of academic success and broaden their job prospects.
How Does Matric College Address Grade 12 Maths Challenges?
Matric College offers students the flexibility to learn at their own pace and in their own time. This is especially beneficial for students who struggle with maths, as it allows them to take the time to understand the concepts and practice their skills.
Which Courses Are Available At Matric College For Students Struggling With Grade 12 Maths?
Matric College offers two courses for students struggling with passing a subject:
Matric Upgrade
The Matric Upgrade program is designed for students who have already done Grade 12 but want to improve their results. The program allows students to retake the subjects that they failed or to choose new subjects related to the field they want to pursue.
Students can upgrade up to six subjects through the Matric Upgrade program. Both the Adult Matric and Matric Rewrite programs offer students the following support:
- Access to experienced and qualified tutors
- Past papers and discussion forums
- Flexible and convenient learning options
Matric Rewrite
The Matric Rewrite course at Matric College is a self-paced, distance learning program that covers all the subjects that are required for the National Senior Certificate (NSC), including English, mathematics, science, and social sciences.
The course is structured in a modular format, with each module covering a specific topic. Students can choose to rewrite all of their Grade 12 subjects, or they can focus on the subjects that they failed.
How Does The Matric Upgrade Course Differ From The Rewrite Course?
The Matric Rewrite course and the Matric Upgrade course are both self-paced, distance learning programmes that are offered by Matric College. However, there are some key differences between the two courses.
The following table summarises the key differences between the Matric Rewrite course and the Matric Upgrade course:
| Characteristic | Matric Rewrite course | Matric Upgrade course |
| Purpose | To improve matric results for students who have not passed their matric exams the first time around | To improve matric results for students who have already passed their matric exams |
| Subjects covered | All the subjects that are required for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) | Students can choose to retake the subjects that they failed or to choose new subjects |
| Number of subjects that can be upgraded | Up to six subjects | Any number of subjects, up to a maximum of six |
Which Course Is Right For You?
If you have not passed your Grade 12 exams the first time around, then the Matric Rewrite course is the right choice for you. The Matric Rewrite course covers all the subjects that are required for the NSC, and it offers students the flexibility to tailor the program to their individual needs.
If you have already passed your Grade 12 exams but want to improve your results, then the Matric Upgrade course is the right choice for you. The Matric Upgrade course allows students to retake the subjects that they failed
How Do These Courses Help In Elevating Grade 12 Maths Scores?
Both courses at Matric College help to elevate Grade 12 maths scores in several ways. The Matric Rewrite and Matric Upgrade courses employ a variety of teaching methodologies, including:
- Self-Paced Learning
- Distance Learning
- One-On-One Tutoring
- Past Papers And Discussion Forums
Self-Paced Learning
Students can learn at their own pace and on their schedule. This is especially beneficial for students who require more time to master certain concepts.
Distance Learning
Students can study from anywhere in the world, as long as they have an internet connection. This makes the courses accessible to students who live in remote areas or who have busy schedules.
One-On-One Tutoring
Students have access to experienced and qualified tutors who can provide them with one-on-one support. Tutors can help students to understand the material, to practice their skills, and to prepare for exams.
Past Papers And Discussion Forums
Students have access to a variety of past papers and discussion forums. Past papers can help students get a feel for the types of questions that are asked in exams, and discussion forums can provide students with a platform to ask questions and get help from other students and tutors.
How Do These Courses Address Common Student Challenges?
The Matric Rewrite and Matric Upgrade courses at Matric College address common student challenges in several ways. They can help students by allowing the following:
- Lack Of Understanding Of The Material
- Difficulty With Problem-Solving
- Lack Of Confidence
Lack Of Understanding Of The Material
One of the most common challenges that students face in Grade 12 maths is a lack of understanding of the material. The Matric Rewrite and Matric Upgrade courses address this challenge by providing students with comprehensive study materials, one-on-one tutoring, and access to past papers and discussion forums.
Difficulty With Problem-Solving
Another common challenge that students face in Grade 12 maths is difficulty with problem-solving. The Matric Rewrite and Matric Upgrade courses address this challenge by providing students with a variety of practice problems and opportunities to apply their skills to real-world scenarios.
Lack Of Confidence
Many students also struggle with confidence in Grade 12 maths. The Matric Rewrite and Matric Upgrade courses address this challenge by providing students with the support and resources they need to succeed. Students have access to experienced and qualified tutors who can provide them with one-on-one support and help them to build their confidence.
Here are some specific examples of how the different courses address common student challenges:
- Students who lack an understanding of the material can benefit from the comprehensive study materials and one-on-one tutoring that is provided by the courses
- Students who struggle with problem-solving can benefit from the variety of practice problems and opportunities to apply their skills to real-world scenarios that are provided by the courses
- Students who lack confidence can benefit from the support and resources that are provided by the courses, such as one-on-one tutoring and access to experienced and qualified tutors
Overall, the Matric Rewrite and Matric Upgrade courses are effective in addressing common student challenges. The courses provide students with the support, resources, and instruction they need to succeed in Grade 12 maths.
Why Are Matric College's Courses A Top Choice For Those Who Did Not Succeed In Grade 12 Maths?
Matric College’s courses are a top choice for those who did not succeed in Grade 12 maths for several reasons. From the flexible study option to allow more time to understand topics, to affordable payment options. Consider the following:
- Flexibility
- Support
- Personalisation
- Affordability
Flexibility
Matric College’s courses are offered online and at your own pace, allowing students to learn when and where it is most convenient for them. This is especially beneficial for students who have busy schedules or who need extra time to master certain concepts.
Support
Matric College students have access to experienced and qualified tutors who can provide them with one-on-one support and guidance. This is especially helpful for students who are struggling with specific topics or who need extra help preparing for exams.
Personalisation
Matric College’s courses are tailored to the individual needs of each student. Students can work with their tutors to develop a personalised learning plan that focuses on their specific areas of weakness.
Affordability
Matric College’s courses are very affordable, making them accessible to students from all socioeconomic backgrounds.
Overall, Matric College’s courses are a great option for students who did not succeed in Grade 12 maths. The courses offer students the flexibility, support, and resources they need to improve their grades and achieve their academic goals.
What Happens When Students Do Not Pass Maths In Grade 12?
It is important to note that not passing maths in Grade 12 does not mean that a student’s future is ruined. Many successful people did not pass maths in Grade 12. However, it is important to have a plan for what to do next.
Students who do not pass maths in Grade 12 should talk to their parents, teachers, or a guidance counsellor to discuss their options. When students do not pass maths in Grade 12, they have a few options:
- Retake The Exam
- Enrol In A Bridging Course
Retake The Exam
Most students who do not pass maths in Grade 12 can retake the exam the following year. However, some students may need to complete additional coursework before they can retake the exam.
Enrol In A Bridging Course
Bridging courses are designed to help students who have not met the requirements for entry into a particular program or institution. For example, some bridging courses can help students to improve their maths skills so that they can meet the requirements for entry into university.
It is important to note that not passing maths in Grade 12 does not mean that a student’s future is ruined. However, it is critical to have a plan for what to do next. Students who do not pass maths in Grade 12 should talk to their parents, teachers, or a guidance counsellor to discuss their options.
What Tertiary Education Hurdles Arise From Not Passing Maths In Grade 12?
Not passing maths in Grade 12 can create significant hurdles for students who wish to pursue tertiary education. A strong foundation in maths is essential for many tertiary programs, and students who lack this foundation may find it difficult to succeed.
Here are the key points that will be discussed:
- Limited course options
- Difficulty getting into certain programs
- Need for additional coursework
- Difficulty succeeding in certain programs
Can Students Without Maths Thrive In The Competitive Job Market?
While some tertiary programs do not require maths, students who did not pass maths in Grade 12 may still be at a disadvantage when it comes to finding a job after they graduate.
By understanding the challenges that they may face, students who did not pass maths in Grade 12 can take steps to overcome these challenges and achieve their educational and career goals.
Here are some tertiary education hurdles that may arise from not passing maths in Grade 12:
- Limited Course Options
- Difficulty Getting Into Certain Programs
- Need For Additional Coursework
- Difficulty Succeeding In Certain Programs
Limited Course Options
Many tertiary programs require students to have passed maths in Grade 12. This means that students who do not pass maths in Grade 12 may have fewer course options to choose from.
Difficulty Getting Into Certain Programs
Some tertiary programs are very competitive and may only accept students who have passed maths in Grade 12. This means that students who do not pass maths in Grade 12 may have difficulty getting into their desired program.
Need For Additional Coursework
Some tertiary programs may require students who do not pass maths in Grade 12 to complete additional coursework before they can start the program. This can add time and cost to their education.
Difficulty Succeeding In Certain Programs
Even if students can get into a tertiary program without passing maths in Grade 12, they may have difficulty succeeding in the program if it requires strong maths skills. Here are some examples of tertiary programs that may be difficult to get into or succeed in without passing maths in Grade 12:
- Engineering
- Computer science
- Economics
- Finance
- Science
- Mathematics
- Architecture
- Medicine
Are There Alternative Pathways To Tertiary Education Without Grade 12 Maths?
Many students may worry that not passing Grade 12 Maths limits their opportunities for tertiary education. However, there are several alternative pathways to pursue higher education without this requirement.
These options provide flexibility and cater to diverse educational needs and career aspirations. Below are the key alternatives:
- Apprenticeships And Traineeships
- Vocational Education And Training (VET):
- Foundation Courses
- Bridging Courses
Why Choose Matric College's Distance Learning For Maths?
There are many reasons why you might choose Matric College’s distance learning for maths. Here are a few of the key benefits you can receive if you choose to study at Matric College:
- Flexibility
- Personalisation
- Support
- Affordability
Flexibility
Distance learning allows you to study at your own pace, on your own time. This is ideal for students who have busy schedules or who need to learn at a different pace than traditional classroom instruction.
Personalisation
Matric College’s distance learning courses are tailored to your individual needs. You will work with a personal tutor who will assess your strengths and weaknesses and develop a personalised learning plan for you.
Support
Matric College provides students with a variety of support resources, including online tutorials, practice problems, and access to tutors. This ensures you have the support you need to succeed in your maths studies.
Affordability
Matric College’s distance learning courses are very affordable. This makes it a great option for students who are on a budget.
How Does Matric College Ensure A Comprehensive Understanding Of Maths Topics?
Matric College is committed to helping students develop a comprehensive understanding of maths topics. While the college does not offer lectures or virtual classes, it does provide students with a variety of resources and support services to help them succeed.
Matric College ensures a comprehensive understanding of maths topics without lectures or virtual classes in many ways:
- Course Design
- Learning Materials
- Assessments
- Support Resources
Course Design
Matric College’s distance learning maths courses are designed to be self-paced and interactive. The courses cover all the essential topics in the curriculum and are regularly updated to reflect the latest changes.
Learning Materials
Matric College provides students with a variety of learning materials, including textbooks, online lessons, and practice problems. The materials are designed to be clear and concise, and they are aligned with the course curriculum.
Assessments
Matric College uses various assessment methods to measure student learning, including quizzes, assignments, and exams. The assessments are designed to be challenging and to cover all the essential topics in the course.
Support Resources
Matric College provides students with a variety of support resources, including access to tutors and online discussion forums. Students can get help from tutors with difficult concepts and assignments, and they can connect with other students to ask questions and share ideas.
People Also Asked
Yes, you can still go to university if you fail maths in grade 12. However, the specific requirements for admission will vary depending on the university and the program you are applying to. Some universities may require you to retake maths in grade 12 or to complete a bridging course before you can start your university studies.
There are no restrictions on how many times you can rewrite any subject in South Africa. However, one should always keep in mind alternative options so as not to delay your education. At Matric College we provide Grade 12 equivalent courses for students who wish to specialise in a special stream.
Grade 12 maths is typically more challenging than maths in earlier grades. This is because grade 12 maths builds on the knowledge and skills that students learn in earlier grades. Grade 12 maths also introduces new concepts and more complex problems.
Some specific areas where grade 12 maths is more challenging include:
- Algebra: Grade 12 algebra typically covers more complex topics, such as quadratic equations, matrices, and calculus
- Geometry: Grade 12 geometry typically covers more complex topics, such as trigonometry and analytic geometry
- Statistics: Grade 12 statistics typically covers more complex topics, such as probability and inferential statistics
Author: Lynnzelle Adams
Editor: Connor Bergsma
Date Published: January 10, 2024