As nerves and excitement builds for the 2025 matric results release on Tuesday, 13 January, government has reminded candidates that the Second Chance Programme services are free.
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) issued a statement on Monday emphasising that its Second Chance Programme remains completely free of charge for unsuccessful National Senior Certificate candidates.
“The department stressed that it does not endorse any private or commercial services that require payment for participation in the Second Chance Programme,” the DBE stated.
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Officials advised unsuccessful candidates to contact the department directly or visit its official website for authentic information about rewriting examinations.
Nearly a millions matrics wrote their final 2025 exams at 7 000 examination centres. The process was supported by thousands of invigilators and more than 51 000 markers and moderators.
Free registration available
Eligible individuals may register to rewrite or add subjects without payment for the May/June examination cycle, according to departmental policies.
The Second Chance Programme targets learners who failed to meet NSC requirements or those seeking to improve their Senior Certificate results.
The programme covers key subjects including Accounting, Agricultural Science, Business Studies, Economics, English First Additional Language, Geography, History, Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, Physical Sciences and Life Sciences.
Two categories of candidates qualify for support: Senior Certificate examination candidates registered for June examinations, and NSC part-time candidates who attempted examinations post-2008 and will write in May/June and November sessions.
Development goals
The programme forms part of the National Development Plan objectives and basic education sector goals aimed at increasing learner retention rates.
Participants gain exposure to bursary opportunities for further studies, according to the department.
The initiative specifically supports learners unable to meet NSC or extended Senior Certificate requirements through their initial attempts.
Candidates requiring information about the Second Chance Programme or results queries must use official departmental channels rather than third-party services that may charge fees for free government programmes.
The DBE emphasised that authentic programme information remains available only through direct departmental contact or its official website.
