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2 clusters · 3 sources · 14 days · First seen · Last updated

South African 2026 matric examination preparations

Overview

Preparations are underway for the 2026 National Senior Certificate examinations in South Africa. In the Western Cape, approximately 71,300 full-time candidates are expected to sit for exams across 485 designated centres between 13 October and 25 November. The Western Cape Education Department has organized 2,600 invigilators and 3,857 markers to manage the process, while offering resources such as study guides and mental health support via the Safe Schools Hotline.

Nationally, nearly 900,000 learners are preparing for the examinations. The Department of Basic Education has scheduled Term 4 to run from 6 October to 9 December, noting that the ten-week term contains no public holidays to allow for uninterrupted curriculum completion. Experts have highlighted the importance of managing psychological pressure, as the high expectations surrounding university placement and future careers can trigger anxiety and imposter syndrome among students.

Entities

Dr Lauren Martin · Kirsten Harrison · Department of Basic Education · Jaco Londt · Western Cape

Timeline

  1. 1 day ago

    [CULTURE] 2 sources
    South African learners prepare for 2026 Matric exams

    South African learners prepare for the 2026 Matric exams as Term 4 begins on 6 October. Experts highlight the importance of managing exam-related stress and emotional wellbeing during this high-stakes period.

  2. 14 days ago

    [CULTURE] 2 sources
    Western Cape matric exams to begin in four weeks

    The 2026 matric examinations in the Western Cape begin on 13 October, with 71,300 candidates set to write exams across 485 centres.

Sources

knysnaplettherald.com · oudtshoorncourant.com · thesouthafrican.com