Matric Rewrite 2027: How to Register for Free (Second Chance Programme)
Failed matric or want better marks? How to register for free for the May/June 2027 matric rewrite through the Second Chance Matric Programme, who qualifies and the key dates.
If you didn’t pass matric, or you passed but need better marks for university, you can rewrite your subjects for free. The Department of Basic Education (DBE) runs the Second Chance Matric Programme to help you register, study and write again.
Who can rewrite
- NSC candidates who didn’t meet the pass requirements
- Learners who passed but want to improve their marks or pass type, for example from a Diploma to a Bachelor pass
- People who missed some or all of their exams
- Senior Certificate (SC) candidates aged 18 or older, who can write the SC in May/June
Key dates
| What | When (every year) |
|---|---|
| Registration opens | Around 1 October, for the following May/June exams |
| Registration closes | Early February |
| Free tutoring classes | February to May |
| Exams | May and June |
| Results | Around August |
This year’s key dates (May/June 2027 exams) — update this box every year
- Registration closes: early February 2027 [CHECK: exact date on education.gov.za]
- Re-mark fee: R120 per subject in 2026 [CHECK]
- Re-check fee: R30 per subject in 2026 [CHECK]
- Re-mark / re-check applications: open on results day, close about two weeks later [CHECK]
If you miss the February deadline, your next chance is the October/November exams.
How to register
Option 1: Online
- Go to eservices.gov.za and create an account.
- Choose the exam registration or Second Chance option and fill in your details.
- Select the subjects you want to rewrite or add.
- Submit and keep your confirmation.
Option 2: In person
Go to your old school or the nearest district education office with:
- Your ID
- Your statement of results from your last attempt
The registration requirements are also printed on the back of your statement of results.
It’s free: watch out for scams
Registering for the rewrite and the Second Chance tutoring is free. If anyone asks you to pay to “register you for the May/June exams”, it’s a scam. You only pay if you choose a private college or private tutoring.
Want a mark checked first?
If you think a mark is wrong, apply for a re-mark or a cheaper re-check of that subject. There’s a small fee per subject (see This year’s key dates above). Applications open on results day and close about two weeks later, so act fast.
While you prepare
- Work out what APS you need with our APS calculator.
- Look at learnerships and entry level jobs you can apply for now.
- Make a CV with our free CV builder.
Guide details
- Last checked on: 10 November 2026
- Official source link:
https://www.education.gov.za
Frequently asked questions
Is the matric rewrite free?
Yes. Registering through the Second Chance Matric Programme is free. Anyone asking for a registration fee is running a scam.
When does matric rewrite registration close?
Every year in early February, for the May/June exams. Check this year's exact date on education.gov.za.
Can I rewrite matric to improve my marks?
Yes. You can rewrite subjects to improve your marks or pass type, not only if you failed.
How do I register for the matric rewrite?
Online at eservices.gov.za, or in person at your school or district education office with your ID and statement of results.
When are rewrite results released?
Results for the May/June exams usually come out around August.
Open now: put this guide to use
TVET Finance Internship Programme 2026 – Busamed Management Company
Closes today
Wits Health Consortium Internship Programme 2026 / 2027 – Wits Health Consortium
Closes today
General Worker Vacancy (X150 Posts) Available in the City of Johannesburg – Pikitup
Closes today
Mediclinic Human Resources Internship 2026 – Pietermaritzburg (N6 TVET)
Closes tomorrow
