On Wednesday, 14 October, candidates are scheduled to write Information Technology Paper 1 Practical, as well as several language papers, including Arabic, French, Italian, Mandarin, Spanish and Latin Second Additional Language Paper 1.
Matric
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South Africa
DBE reports smooth start to 2026 matric exams
The Department of Basic Education says no major irregularities were reported on the first day of the 2026 National Senior Certificate examinations, as learners across the country began writing their papers.
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has welcomed the smooth start to the 2026 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, with no major irregularities reported on the first day.
The examinations commenced on Tuesday, 13 October, with candidates across the country writing Computer Applications Technology (CAT) Paper 1 Practical and various language papers.
The department said the positive start followed extensive preparations by national and provincial education departments to protect the integrity and credibility of the examinations.
It added that officials would continue monitoring the examination process to ensure that candidates in all nine provinces write under fair, secure and suitable conditions.
On Wednesday, 14 October, candidates are scheduled to write Information Technology Paper 1 Practical, as well as several language papers, including Arabic, French, Italian, Mandarin, Spanish and Latin Second Additional Language Paper 1.
Portuguese Home Language, First Additional Language and Second Additional Language Paper 1 are also scheduled for the day.
Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube wished the Class of 2026 well, encouraging learners to approach their examinations with confidence, discipline and perseverance.
“The commencement of the 2026 National Senior Certificate examinations is an important moment for our learners and the basic education sector,” said Gwarube.
She said the examinations provided learners with an opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge and skills they had acquired over the years.
The minister also called on learners to remain focused and give their best throughout the examination period.
The department urged parents, guardians and communities to provide learners with emotional and practical support, saying a stable and encouraging environment was important in helping candidates perform to the best of their abilities.
It said it would continue working with provincial education departments to monitor the examinations, address emerging challenges and ensure a credible examination process.
The department wished all candidates well as they continue with their examinations.
