Katlego Sekhu

This week, over 870 000 matriculants received their results after completing their final exams late last year.
While many celebrated outstanding performances, some learners faced disappointment when their results fell short.
There are options available for learners who are unhappy with their results: you can request a remark on your exam papers or rewrite the exams later this year to improve your marks.
Education Activist Hendrick Makaneta joined Drive 959 with Glen to take us through the options that parents and learners may explore to turn any exam outcome around.
Exam Remark
Learners can request a remark on their exam papers through the Department of Basic Education (DBE). This process must be initiated within a specific timeframe, typically within 16 days after the release of results.
Applications can be submitted online via the DBE’s e-services portal (www.eservices.gov.za), where students must create an account and follow the instructions. While online applications are preferred, manual submissions may be accepted in certain cases. A fee is required for the remarking service.
During the remarking process, a different examiner thoroughly reviews the entire exam paper to ensure accurate and fair marking.
Once the process is complete, students will be notified of their updated results. If the remarking leads to a higher score, the original mark will be replaced with the improved result.
Exam Rewrite
The Matric Rewrite in South Africa provides an opportunity for learners to improve their National Senior Certificate (NSC) results in specific subjects. To be eligible, candidates must be under 21 years old and have previously written the Matric exams.
Typically, students can rewrite up to four subjects. Registration occurs during a designated period, usually later in the year, and applications can be submitted through local education district offices or online via the Department of Basic Education’s (DBE) e-services portal. Required documentation includes an ID and previous NSC results, and there are fees associated with the process.
Matric Rewrite exams are held either in May/June or October/November, with candidates assigned to specific exam centres.
Results are released a few months after the exams, and if improved scores are achieved, the original marks are updated.
NB: It is important to consult official sources such as the DBE website or local district offices for the most up-to-date information.



