The 2025 Matric Exams—formally known as the Senior Certificate (SC) or National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations—are a major milestone for learners across South Africa. Whether you’re a full-time Grade 12 student or an adult returning to complete your matric, these exams can open doors to higher education, employment, and future opportunities.
Running from Monday, 12 May to Friday, 27 June 2025, the 2025 Matric Exams will span seven weeks, with a wide range of subjects and over 30 different papers. This article provides a full breakdown of the 2025 Matric Exam timetable, explains the major subject categories, and shares key tips to help you prepare and succeed.
Overview of the 2025 Matric Exams Timetable
The Department of Basic Education has scheduled the 2025 Matric Exams over 36 days, split into two daily sessions:
- Morning Session: Starts at 09:00
- Afternoon Session: Starts at 14:00
It is essential for learners, teachers, and parents to become familiar with the full exam timetable to ensure effective preparation and attendance.
Weekly Breakdown of the 2025 Matric Exams
Week 1: 12 – 16 May
- 12 May:
- Languages HL/FAL/SAL Paper 1
- English HL/FAL/SAL Paper 3
- 13 May:
- Portuguese, German HL Paper 1
- Information Technology P2 Theory
- 14 May:
- Afrikaans HL/FAL/SAL Paper 3
- 15 May:
- South African Sign Language HL Paper 3
- isiZulu, isiXhosa, Sepedi HL Paper 3
- Mathematics P1, Mathematical Literacy P1
- 16 May:
- Portuguese, German HL P2
- Technical Mathematics P1
Week 2: 19 – 23 May
- 19 May:
- Mandarin SAL P2
- Mathematics P2
- Technical Mathematics P2
- 20 May:
- Engineering Graphics and Design P1
- Accounting P1
- 21 May:
- CAT Paper 2 Theory
- Religion Studies Paper 2
- 22 May:
- Civil Technology
- Sport & Exercise Science
- 23 May:
- IT P1 Practical
- Physical Sciences (Physics) P1
Week 3: 26 – 30 May
- 26 May:
- Dance Studies
- Physical Sciences (Chemistry) P2
- 28 May:
- Engineering Graphics & Design P2
- Geography P1
- 30 May:
- Marine Sciences P1
- Mechanical Technology
- Life Sciences P1
Week 4: 02 – 06 June
- 02 June:
- Religious Holiday
- 03 June:
- Electrical Technology
- Life Sciences P2
- 04 June:
- Design P1
- Accounting P2
- 05 June:
- Maritime Economics
- Equine Studies
- English HL/FAL/SAL P1
- 06 June:
- Consumer Studies
- Hospitality Studies
- Business Studies P1
Week 5: 09 – 13 June
- 09 June:
- Dramatic Arts
- Geography P2
- 10 June:
- Afrikaans HL/FAL/SAL P2
- 11 June:
- South African Sign Language HL P2
- isiZulu, isiXhosa HL/FAL/SAL P2
- 12 June:
- Visual Arts P1
- English HL/FAL/SAL P2
- 13 June:
- Agricultural Management Practices
- Business Studies P2
Week 6: 16 – 20 June
- 16 June:
- Youth Day – No Exams
- 18 June:
- Marine Sciences P2
- History P1
- 20 June:
- Music P1 (Theory)
- Economics P1
Week 7: 23 – 27 June
- 23 June:
- Music P2
- History P2
- 24 June:
- Economics P2
- 25 June:
- CAT P1 Rewrite
- IT P1 Rewrite
- Agricultural Sciences P2
- 27 June:
- Schools Close
Subjects Included in the 2025 Matric Exams
The 2025 Matric Exams include both academic and technical subjects. Here’s how they’re grouped:
Languages
- Home Languages (HL), First Additional Languages (FAL), and Second Additional Languages (SAL)
- Subjects include English, Afrikaans, isiZulu, isiXhosa, Sepedi, and foreign languages like German, French, and Portuguese
Mathematics & Science
- Mathematics Paper 1 and Paper 2
- Mathematical Literacy
- Technical Mathematics
- Physical Sciences (split into Physics and Chemistry papers)
- Life Sciences
Commerce & Humanities
- Accounting
- Business Studies
- Economics
- History
- Geography
Technology and Practical Subjects
- Information Technology (Theory and Practical)
- Computer Applications Technology
- Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical Technology
- Design and Visual Arts
How to Prepare for the 2025 Matric Exams
1. Plan with the Timetable
Use the official 2025 Matric Exams timetable to structure your study schedule. Start with the subjects you write first and allow more revision time for the difficult ones.
2. Practice Past Papers
Past papers are one of the best ways to prepare. They help you understand the structure and types of questions you may face.
3. Join Study Groups
Group studies can help you understand difficult topics and boost your confidence. Teach each other and ask questions.
4. Take Care of Your Health
Eat balanced meals, stay hydrated, and get 7–8 hours of sleep. Exercise or stretch daily to reduce exam stress.
Related: 2026 University Application Dates for South African Institutions
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Matric Exams are a stepping stone to your next journey—whether that’s university, college, or entering the workplace. The key to success is preparation, discipline, and belief in your ability. By understanding your exam timetable and planning ahead, you can approach each subject with confidence and clarity.
Stay focused, ask for help when you need it, and trust the work you’ve put in. You’ve got this.
