Good news for learners and adult candidates! The Second Chance Matric Support Programme (SCMSP) for the May/June 2026 examinations is now officially open. This initiative by the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) gives eligible candidates a valuable opportunity to rewrite, improve, or complete their matric qualification.
Whether you are correcting past results or returning to education as an adult learner, this programme is designed to help you rewrite your future.
What Is the Second Chance Matric Support Programme?
The Second Chance Matric Support Programme is a government initiative aimed at supporting:
- Learners who previously wrote Grade 12 and want to improve their results
- Adult learners who never completed matric
- Out-of-school youth seeking a recognised senior certificate
The programme offers structured support and official registration for the May/June 2026 Matric examinations.
Important: Choose the Correct Registration Category
Registration methods and rules differ depending on your qualification pathway. Make sure you identify the correct category before applying.
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National Senior Certificate (NSC) – Repeater Candidates
This category applies to candidates who have already written Grade 12 and want to rewrite subjects to improve marks.
Registration Method
- Manual registration ONLY
- No online registration is available for NSC candidates
- Apply in person at:
- A registered examination centre, or
- A GDE District Office
Subject Rules
- You may not add or change subjects
- Only previously written subjects may be rewritten
Requirements
To register, you must:
- Have a valid South African ID or Passport
- Meet School-Based Assessment (SBA), oral, and practical requirements where applicable
- Comply with Grade 10 and Grade 11 promotion requirements
Senior Certificate (SC) – Adult Learners
This option is for adult learners and out-of-school youth who did not complete matric through the NSC route.
Who Qualifies?
- Adults 21 years and older with:
- A GETC
- Grade 9 (Standard 7) report
- Or a recognised NQF Level 4 qualification
- Candidates aged 18–21 years who:
- Dropped out of school, and
- Have written approval from the Provincial Head of Department (HOD)
Registration Methods
You can register either:
- Online via eservice.gov.za, or
- Manually at any GDE District Office
Closing Date for Registration
Registration closes on: 6 February 2026
Late applications are not guaranteed, so candidates are strongly advised to register as early as possible.
Documents Required for Manual Registration
When registering in person, make sure to bring:
- Your valid Identity Document (ID) or Passport
- Previous statements of results or qualification certificates
Missing documents may delay or prevent your registration.
Why You Should Apply Now
The Second Chance Matric Support Programme gives you:
- A recognised Senior Certificate or improved NSC results
- Better access to tertiary education, training, and employment
- A real opportunity to change your academic and career path
This is your moment to take control of your future.
Final Reminder
If you qualify, don’t wait until the last minute. Visit your nearest GDE District Office or register online (for SC candidates) before 6 February 2026.
