For many teens, matric results carry an emotional weight far beyond their academic significance.
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The country's 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) results were released early on Tuesday, and many celebrated the historic pass rate of 88% for this year’s cohort.
But while emotions are at an all-time high, here’s a practical guide on what matriculants should do and what to avoid in the crucial first 48 hours after results are published.
1. Check your results through official channels
Use the Department of Basic Education’s official results portal, which is usually the fastest way once systems go live.
SMS or USSD (if available): Services like sending your exam/ID number via SMS to 35658 or dialling *120*35658# can also deliver results directly to your phone.
School Submission: Another option is visiting your school or exam centre to collect your official Statement of Results, which is the formal document required for applications and future study.
2. Stay calm and grounded (no matter the outcome)
Feelings will be intense, and excitement, relief, disappointment or uncertainty are all normal. Psychological and educational experts emphasise that results reflect one moment in time and do not define lifelong potential or worth.
So take time to breathe, talk with family and friends, and maintain perspective can help regulate emotions over the first couple of days.
3. Double-check your details
Once you have your results, ensure your name, ID number and subjects are correct. Make sure to identify your pass type (Bachelor’s, Diploma or Higher Certificate).
Any discrepancies should be reported immediately through your school or district office so corrections can be processed.
4. Plan your next steps
Whether you passed with flying colours or not, the next 48 hours are ideal for:
Confirming or adjusting university/college applications — many institutions allow late placement or adjustment based on results.
Exploring options like TVET colleges, learnerships, bursaries or vocational training.
Deciding on re-checks or remarks — if your marks are lower than expected, you may consider requesting a re-mark or re-check through official channels.
Now that we have gone over what to do, there are also things not to do.
1. Don’t panic if websites or platforms are slow
There is a joke that technology and the internet know when you are stressed out. Heavy traffic on results day often causes delays. Slow loading or temporary outages are common, but this doesn’t mean something is wrong with your result.
2. Don’t trust unofficial screenshots or rumours
We are living in a time of somewhat convincing AI and fake result images and social media screenshots circulate quickly on results day - a terrible combination. Only trust official channels such as the DBE, accredited portals, your school or authorised SMS/USSD services.
3. Don’t rush into a decision without information
Avoid making major plans in the heat of the moment (e.g., withdrawing from study options or committing to courses) without checking deadlines, requirements and support services. Take time to consult teachers, parents, career advisers or university admissions offices before deciding.
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