More than 85 000 Western Cape matric candidates are beginning their final examinations, with the province hoping to improve on last year’s 88.2% pass rate.
The 2026 National Senior Certificate examinations start on Tuesday, 13 October, with the Computer Applications Technology practical paper and will conclude on 25 November.
Western Cape Education Minister Jaco Londt confirmed that 71 302 full-time candidates and 13 834 part-time and repeat candidates are registered to write this year.
Londt also attended a matric pledge-signing ceremony at Portland High School, where he joined Grade 12 learners in reading the examination pledge. Principal Ridwaan Williams, teachers and Western Cape Education Department officials were also present.
The pledge commits candidates to following examination rules, with Londt warning learners against taking shortcuts.
He said: “Do not be tempted to take a shortcut; it is simply not worth it. You have all signed a pledge to adhere to the exam rules, so please abide by these.”
Province hopes to improve matric results
The Western Cape achieved an 88.2 percent matric pass rate in 2025, compared with 86.6% in 2024.
Londt said the province was hoping to improve on last year’s results while continuing to focus on the quality of passes.
He also highlighted the Western Cape’s retention rate and the national education department’s move towards new indicators to assess matric performance.
Support available during examinations
Londt urged parents and communities to support candidates during the examination period and help maintain a peaceful environment for studying.
Schools can contact the WCED’s Safe Schools Hotline on 0800 45 46 47 for assistance with learners who are struggling.
Past examination papers, memoranda, study guides and video tutorials are available on the department’s matric support website.
“Hard work, discipline, and constructive breaks in between studying are needed right now. Celebrations will come later,” Londt said.