Northern Cape Department of Education Prepared for 2026 National Senior Certificate Examinations

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The Northern Cape Department of Education is confident that the foundation has been laid for the Matric Class of 2026, to take on the responsibility of building on the achievement by improving last year’s pass rate, and surpassing the 90% pass rate across all of its 149 Registration of Examination Centres.

That is after the Department prides itself of having achieved its targeted interventions, with particular focus on progressed and borderline candidates to maximise their potential

The exams, which started on Tuesday, 13 October, are set to conclude on 26 November 2026.

A total of 17 804 candidates successfully registered for the 2026 NSC Examinations, of which 15 272 are full-time and 2 532 are part-time candidates.

In 2025, the Northern Cape achieved a pass rate of 87,79%, representing a significant improvement of 21,79% over the past six years, up from 66% in 2020.

Intervention measures put in place include order to improve the pass included Curriculum Roadshows and Subject Clinics, Broadcasted Lessons and Digital Content (both online and offline), Saturday Classes, Weekend Lock-In Sessions, and Psycho-Social Support, Differentiated Subject Support for high-enrolment and problematic subjects, led by Subject Advisors, Provision of Additional Learning Support Materials, and Holiday School Camps.

In its commitment to upholding the integrity of the examinations to prevent irregularities, particularly related to dishonesty, a total of 149 Chief Invigilators have been appointed and thoroughly trained to manage and monitor exam processes across the province for all 89 question papers.

Marking will take place at four designated centres, set to open on 1 December, while capturing of marks will be completed by 14 December 2026.

The Minister of Basic Education will officially release the National results on 11 January 2027, while Northern Cape Provincial results will be released on 12 January 2027.

The Northern Cape Department of Education, with the full support of the Provincial Government, has made every effort to prepare and support learners through one of the most critical milestones in their academic journey.

The Department calls on parents and family members to provide continued guidance, encouragement and emotional support during this crucial period.