By Levy Masiteng
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has encouraged National Senior Certificate (NSC) candidates who did not pass their matric exams to take advantage of the Second Chance Matric Programme.
“The Second Chance Matric Programme is a key intervention by the DBE aimed at supporting learners who were unable to obtain their National Senior Certificate (NSC) or the extended Senior Certificate (SC),” the department said.
The programme is open to Senior Certificate examination candidates who are registered to write the Senior Certificate examinations in June and NSC part-time candidates who attempted the NSC examinations after 2008 and will be writing in the May/June or November examination sessions.
The department said that the initiative is offered free of charge to qualifying learners.
Candidates and parents were warned to be cautious of private or commercial entities claiming to offer the Second Chance Programme for a fee.
“We do not endorse any paid services linked to the programme,” the DBE said.
For accurate and verified information, candidates are advised to contact the DBE directly or visit its official website.
According to the department, the programme forms part of its commitment to the goals of the National Development Plan (NDP) and the basic education sector, with a strong focus on increasing learner retention and educational outcomes.
Through the programme, candidates receive academic support to help them meet the requirements for a Grade 12 certificate, while also being exposed to career guidance and bursary opportunities for further studies.
Academic support under the Second Chance Matric Programme is provided in the following subjects: Accounting, Agricultural Sciences, Business Studies, Economics, English First Additional Language (FAL), Geography, History, Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences.
Registration for the 2026 May/June SC and NSC examinations will close on 6 February 2026.
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