Over 173 000 KZN learners set to write final exams
The countdown is on. With more than 173 000 candidates registered, KZN is gearing up for the 2025 matric exams, starting October 21. MEC Siphosihle Hlomuka urges learners to stay focused, prepare well, and aim higher than last year’s stellar results.
WITH less than 30 days to go, the countdown is well underway for the Class of 2025 who will sit their first National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination paper, Computer Applications Technology (Paper 1), on Tuesday, October 21.
The KZN Department of Education confirmed that 173 584 candidates have registered for the 2025 NSC exams – an increase from the 161 962 candidates in 2024. Last year’s cohort achieved an impressive 89.5% pass rate, securing second place nationally. Education MEC Siphosihle Hlomuka said the department aims to improve on those results and urged learners to stay disciplined.
“We encourage all candidates to familiarise themselves with their timetables, set aside study time, and avoid irregularities, as these carry serious consequences,” said Hlomuka. “There is no shortcut to success — study hard and prepare thoroughly.”
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He further encouraged candidates to manage their time effectively and take advantage of the resources available to them, such as the winter classes and the department’s Study Tips booklet. “Your journey has not been easy, but the reward is worth it,” Hlomuka added.
The 2025 matric exams officially kick off with Computer Applications Technology P1 in the morning session, followed by Eastern Languages in the afternoon. Officially marked as Week One, English Paper 3 will be written on Thursday, October 23, followed the next day by Afrikaans Paper 3.
According to the department, the Paper 3 for African languages including isiZulu, isiXhosa, and Sesotho among others, will be written in Week Two which kicks off on Monday, October 27. The final exam will be written on November 26, while CAT Paper 1 and IT Paper 1 rewrite practicals will be on November 27. The Minister of Department of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, is expected to announce the outcome of the matric results on January 13, 2026.
To view the full Class of 2025 matric exam timetable, visit the official Department of Education website.
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