NSC Rewrite

If you didn’t achieve your desired results in your National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams, don’t lose hope. The South African education system offers a lifeline through the NSC Rewrite program. This initiative allows learners to improve their results and ultimately obtain their Grade 12 matric certificate.

What is the NSC Rewrite?

The NSC Rewrite is part of the Second Chance Matric Programme launched by the Department of Basic Education. This program aims to support learners who wish to rewrite their matric subjects to meet the requirements for obtaining either the National Senior Certificate (NSC) or the Senior Certificate (SC).

Registration for the NSC Rewrite

You can register to rewrite matric subjects if you want to improve your results. Registration is straightforward and typically takes place at designated examination centers or through the Department of Basic Education’s official website. Be sure to check the specific requirements and deadlines for registration to ensure you don’t miss out on this opportunity.

Opportunities to Rewrite

The NSC Rewrite program offers several opportunities throughout the year:

  1. Supplementary Exams (March): If you have failed one or two subjects, you can sit for the supplementary exams in March. This gives you a second chance to improve your results without having to wait an entire year.
  2. Progressed Learners (June): For learners who wrote the NSC the previous year but did not sit for all six subjects, the progressed learners’ rewrite exams are held in June. This option is perfect for those who need to complete their outstanding subjects.

Learning Support

The Department of Basic Education recognizes that some learners may need additional support to succeed in their rewrites. To this end, the Second Chance Matric Programme offers various resources, including:

  • Face-to-Face Classes: Available at various locations across the country, these classes provide personalized support and instruction.
  • Online Programs: For those who prefer studying at their own pace, online programs are available. These include comprehensive learning materials and resources to help you prepare effectively.
  • Broadcasts on Television and Radio: The program also reaches learners through educational broadcasts, making it easier for everyone to access vital learning resources, regardless of their location.

Overview of Public Universities in South Africa

Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.

University of Pretoria

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
  • Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.

University of Cape Town

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
  • Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.

Stellenbosch University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.

University of the Witwatersrand

  • Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
  • Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.

University of Johannesburg

  • Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
  • Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.

University of the Free State

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.

University of Venda

  • Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
  • Application Period: Usually from May to September.

University of Fort Hare

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
  • Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.

University of the Western Cape

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Generally from May to September.

North-West University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.

Rhodes University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
  • Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.

Nelson Mandela University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
  • Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.

University of Limpopo

  • Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

University of Zululand

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
  • Application Period: Usually between April and November.

Central University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.

Vaal University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
  • Application Period: Typically from May to September.

Walter Sisulu University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.