Teenage boy is taking a test while sitting at desk in classroom in high school. Students are concentrating while writing during exam.
With only two weeks left until the 2025 matric examinations end, the grade 12s still have subjects to tackle before then.
According to the Department of Basic Education, final examinations for both National Senior Certificate (NSC) and Independent Examinations Board (IEB) are set to conclude on 27 November 2025.
NSC and IEB examinations continue on Thursday, 13 November, with pupils writing several exams.
Morning session
The morning session begins at 9am, and NSC students will write the following language:
- English HL, FAL and SAL Paper 2
IEB candidates will write these South African Languages:
- Afrikaans HL and FAL Paper 2
- IsiXhosa FAL Paper 2
- IsiZulu HL and FAL Paper 2
- Sepedi HL and FAL Paper 2
- Sesotho HL and FAL Paper 2
- Setswana FAL Paper 2
- Siswati FAL Paper 2
- Xitsonga FAL Paper 2
Afternoon papers
NSC candidates will sit for:
- Information Technology Paper 2
- Marine Sciences Paper 1
IEB candidates will have the afternoon off, with no exam scheduled in the second session.
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See the full NSC final exam timetable below:
See the full IEB final exam timetable below:
Study tips for exam success
Start with past papers: Work through previous years’ examination papers under timed conditions to familiarise yourself with the format and question styles.
Create summary notes: Condense your study material into concise, focused notes that highlight key concepts, formulas and definitions for quick revision.
Practice active recall: Test yourself regularly without looking at notes to strengthen memory and identify areas that need more attention.
Take strategic breaks: Use the Pomodoro Technique – study for 25–30 minutes, then take a 5-minute break to maintain concentration and prevent burnout.
Prioritise sleep and nutrition: Ensure adequate rest the night before examinations and eat balanced meals to maintain energy levels and mental clarity throughout the three-hour papers.
The National Senior Certificate examinations continue through to 27 November 2025, with candidates writing across six weeks of scheduled assessments.
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