Just 4 weeks until the 2026 matric exams begin

EDUCATION NEWS - The 2026 matric examinations kick off exactly four weeks from today on Tuesday 13 October when matrics will write Computer Applications Technology, better known as CAT.

In the Western Cape 71 300 full-time National Senior Certificate candidates will be sitting for the exams that come to an end on 25 November.

Western Cape matric exams by numbers

485 exam centres: 477 high schools, 7 primary schools and 1 correctional services facilty will serve as designated centres for part-time learners
2 600 community invigilators
123 exam papers will be written
3 857 markers

Over 31 000 Western Cape matrics attended #BackOnTrack winter school classes during the mid-year school holiday.

These took place across the eight education districts and covered various subjects. Revision classes will be taking place over the upcoming third term break.

A range of support resources have been made available on the WCED website, such as Grade 12 exam question papers and memoranda, video tutorials, study guides and subject-specific academic support, study tips, information on funding for further studies, health and wellbeing support resources, and free internet and related services through WCG eCentres.

Matric exams can be stressful and those who are struggling, or adults who are concerned about a learner’s mental health, are urged to reach out to the WCED for help.

Western Cape Minister of Education, Jaco Londt says school staff can seek guidance from district support teams, while the toll free Safe Schools Hotline - 0800 45 46 47 - can connect learners with help from sister departments and NGOs.

Western Cape Minister of Education, Jaco Londt

"I want to ask parents, guardians, communities to work with us to support our learners during this time. Let us not disrupt their precious study time or do anything that could negatively impact their focus.