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What is this about?
Department of Basic Education has confirmed that registration for the 2026 Senior Certificate (SC) and National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations is now open. Candidates must register before the official closing dates to be eligible to write.
Important registration closing dates
- May/June 2026 SC & NSC exams: 6 February 2026
- November 2026 NSC exams: 13 March 2026
Late registrations are not guaranteed to be accepted.
Who can register for which exam?
Here is how eligibility works:
- NSC candidates
- May/June: Eligible
- November: Eligible
- Registration method: Manual registration only
- SC candidates
- May/June: Eligible
- November: Not eligible
- Registration method: District office or online
Where and how to register
Candidates must register using the correct channel:
| Candidate type | Where to register |
|---|---|
| NSC candidates | At your school or nearest district office |
| SC candidates | District office or online via www.eservices.gov.za |
Documents needed to register
All candidates must provide:
- A certified copy of an ID
- Proof of previous results
- Statement of results, or
- Grade 9, 10 or 11 school report (for SC candidates)
If this applies to you
If you plan to write the 2026 SC or NSC exams, register early and confirm that you are using an official DBE registration channel. Do not rely on third parties offering to register on your behalf.
What to do next
- Check which exam you qualify for
- Gather your required documents
- Register before the closing date
- Contact your school or district office if unsure
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