The final countdown has begun for over 71,000 Western Cape matric pupils who will put 12 years of schooling to the test in the 2026 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations. A total of 71,302 full-time NSC candidates in the province are registered to write their final examinations. The exams will take place over seven weeks, starting with the Computer Applications Technology practical examination on October 13.
In addition to the full-time candidates, 13,834 part-time and repeat NSC candidates are also expected to sit for the examinations. Western Cape education MEC Jaco Londt urged matric candidates to use the remaining preparation time wisely and not let anything disrupt their studying. He encouraged eligible matriculants who want to vote to consider applying for a special vote to avoid wasting precious learning time.
The Western Cape education department (WCED) has made various matric support resources available to candidates, including previous examination papers, video tutorials, study guides, and subject-specific academic support. Resources covering funding for further studies, health and wellbeing support, and free internet services through Western Cape government eCentres are also available. The department has urged pupils struggling with their mental health to seek assistance.
Schools can contact the Safe Schools Hotline on 0800 45 46 47 for support from government departments and NGOs. Stellenbosch University counselling psychologist Mari O’Reilly advised pupils to resist the pressure to spend every available hour studying, warning that effective preparation also requires sleep, exercise, proper nutrition, and breaks. She recommended drawing up realistic study plans based on the amount of work to be covered and the times of day when pupils are most productive.
O’Reilly suggested a flexible approach to studying, setting daily goals for chapters or sections to be completed while allowing some flexibility about when they are tackled. She emphasized the importance of self-discipline during the final stretch, advising pupils to decide what needs to be done and do it. O’Reilly also recommended between six and eight hours of sleep a night, as sleep plays a crucial role in helping the brain consolidate information learned during the day.
In terms of nutrition, O’Reilly recommended consuming slow-releasing carbohydrates, healthy fats, vegetables, and fruit, while limiting highly processed foods, sweets, and sugary or energy drinks. Staying hydrated is equally important, and candidates should continue exercising and making time to relax and socialize. O’Reilly advised at least 20 minutes of physical activity a day, as exercise can improve concentration, help with information retention, promote better sleep, and reduce stress.
The examinations will conclude on November 25, with no papers scheduled from November 2 to 5 due to the local government elections, or on November 9 due to Diwali. Londt thanked grade 12 teachers, tutors, and education officials who worked with pupils during the spring break to prepare them for the examinations. Applications for special votes close at 5 pm on October 12.
Key points
- Over 71,000 Western Cape matric pupils are set to write their final exams.
- The 2026 National Senior Certificate exams will take place over seven weeks, starting on October 13.
- Education officials and mental health experts are urging candidates to prioritize their wellbeing during the exam period.
