The 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams have officially reached the halfway point, and the Department of Basic Education (DBE) has confirmed that the process is running smoothly across South Africa. The department says the exams have been marked by stability, integrity, and efficiency throughout all nine provinces.
More than 920 000 matric candidates are currently writing their final exams at over 6 800 examination centres nationwide. According to the DBE, “Despite the scale and logistical complexity of this process, the vast majority of sessions have unfolded without disruption, a reflection of the strength of the DBE’s examination systems, the dedication of invigilators and educators, and the discipline shown by learners.”
While a few isolated incidents have been recorded — such as community protests and minor administrative or technical challenges — the DBE said these issues were “swiftly and effectively managed” through established risk management procedures. “These timely interventions continue to demonstrate the preparedness and resilience of South Africa’s examination system, which is built on firm safeguards to maintain fairness and credibility,” the department added.
The DBE also addressed concerns raised about the difficulty of the 2025 Mathematics Paper 1 and Paper 2, assuring learners, parents and the public that all NSC exam papers are carefully designed to assess a range of cognitive skills aligned with the national curriculum. Each paper includes both fundamental and higher-order problem-solving questions.
“Importantly, the standardisation process overseen by Umalusi, the Quality Council for General and Further Education and Training, ensures that any variations in performance trends are scientifically reviewed before final results are approved. Should any paper prove more challenging than expected, this process guarantees that no learner is unfairly disadvantaged. Confidence in the integrity, credibility and fairness of the examination system therefore remains well placed,” the department said.
The DBE expressed gratitude to everyone contributing to a successful exam season — including learners, educators, parents, provincial education teams, law enforcement, municipalities, and community leaders — for helping to maintain a safe and peaceful environment.
Communities have been urged to continue safeguarding schools as “zones of learning and peace.” The department warned that, “Any form of protest or unrest that disrupts teaching, learning or examination activities undermines the hard work and aspirations of thousands of learners nationwide.”
To help learners perform their best, the DBE encouraged them to manage stress by getting enough rest, eating well, and taking breaks while studying. “Candidates are reminded that calm focus and confidence go a long way [towards preparation], and a positive mindset remains the best tool for success,” the DBE said.
With the support of South Africans nationwide, the DBE remains confident that the 2025 NSC examinations will conclude successfully, upholding the high standards and credibility of South Africa’s national education system.
