DBE praises smooth start to 2025 matric exams across SA

Mapaballo Borotho

The Department of Basic Education says the 2025 matric exams have been progressing smoothly with no major incidents reported so far.
A quarter of all papers have been written across all nine provinces, with examinations running on time and securely.
Minor irregularities are being addressed, while learners facing health or logistical issues have been accommodated to ensure fairness.

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has announced that the 2025 matric exams have been running smoothly and is hopeful that the same progress will continue until all candidates have completed their final examinations.

The class of 2025 officially began their National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams last week Tuesday, 21 October 2025, with the first batch kicking off with Computer Applications Technology (CAT).

DBE spokesperson Terence Khala confirmed that no major incidents have been reported nationwide.

“The examinations continue to progress smoothly into the second week, with no major incidents reported nationwide,” he said.

“To date, roughly a quarter of all exam papers have been written, including Home Languages, English, and History. Mathematics will conclude this week’s schedule. Across all nine provinces, examinations have proceeded on time and in secure conditions.”

At the same time, Basic Education Director-General Mathanzima Mweli commended pupils, teachers, and exam officials for their continued discipline and commitment.

“The stability we are witnessing reflects a well-coordinated and mature system,” said Mweli.

The Department added that while a few isolated incidents, such as cellphone use and crib notes, were reported, they are being handled in line with the irregularities policy.

Some candidates have also been accommodated at approved alternative venues, such as hospitals, due to health or logistical challenges a measure aimed at ensuring that no learner is disadvantaged.

The matric candidates will write their last paper on Thursday, 27 November 2025.