NSC Exam Timetable 2025 – download the Matric final exam Schedule (All Provinces)
Matric finals are around the corner, and the Department of Basic Education has just released the NSC Exam Timetable 2025. If you’re in Grade 12 this year, now is the perfect time to start planning, revising, and getting yourself mentally ready for exam season.
Here’s a quick and easy guide to help you understand the schedule, key dates to watch, and how to use the timetable to your advantage.
When do the final exams begin and end?
According to the NSC Exam Timetable 2025, the exams officially begin on Tuesday, 21 October 2025, and wrap up on Thursday, 27 November 2025.
Things kick off with Computer Applications Technology (CAT) P1 Practical, followed by Information Technology P1 the next day. These early practical exams are hands-on, so make sure your equipment and skills are in good shape.
The last day is reserved for practical exam rewrites, specifically for CAT and IT.
Key dates to remember from the NSC Exam Timetable 2025
Some exams stand out because of their popularity or how close together they are scheduled. Here are a few highlights from the NSC Exam Timetable 2025:
- 31 October (Friday) – Maths P1, Maths Literacy P1, Technical Maths P1
- 3 November (Monday) – Maths P2, Maths Lit P2, Technical Maths P2
- 7 November (Friday) – Physical Sciences P1 & Technical Sciences P1
- 10 November (Monday) – Physical Sciences P2 & Technical Sciences P2
- 12 November (Wednesday) – Geography P1
- 18 November (Tuesday) – Geography P2
- 14 & 17 November – Life Sciences P1 and P2
- 19 & 21 November – Economics P1 and P2
- 25 November (Tuesday) – Consumer Studies, Hospitality Studies
Important events before exams start
Before exams begin, learners must take part in the matric pledge signing on Friday, 17 October 2025. This is a commitment to integrity during the exam period.
The Life Orientation Common Assessment Task (LO CAT) happens earlier than most exams – on 1 September 2025, with a rewrite on 14 October if necessary. Make sure this is noted in your calendar.
Practicals and creative subjects
Some subjects include practical components that happen before the main exam block. The NSC Exam Timetable 2025 outlines these as:
- Performing Arts Practicals: from 14 August to 24 October
- Visual Arts and Design Practicals: from 14 to 24 October
Other practical exams, like Music and Marine Sciences, are scheduled within the main exam period.
How to plan your studies using the NSC exam timetable 2025
Once you’ve got your copy of the NSC Exam Timetable 2025, the next step is building a study routine around it. Here’s how:
- Highlight your subjects so you know what’s relevant.
- Use breaks wisely – there are natural gaps for revision between subjects.
- Start early – don’t wait until October to revise.
- Balance subjects – if you have two tough papers in one week, plan for it now.
Final thoughts
The NSC Exam Timetable 2025 gives every matric learner a clear structure to work with. It’s your roadmap for the last big push of high school. The sooner you start preparing, the more confident you’ll feel walking into that first exam room.
Need help creating a study timetable based on your subjects? I’m happy to help. Let’s get you organised and ready to finish strong.
Good luck – you’ve got this.
FAQ
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When do the 2025 matric exams start?
The final exams begin on Tuesday, 21 October 2025, with the Computer Applications Technology (CAT) P1 practical paper.
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when do the exams end?
The last official day of exams is Thursday, 27 November 2025, which is reserved for CAT and IT practical rewrites. Most written exams will be completed by Wednesday, 26 November.
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when is the mathematics exam in 2025?
Mathematics P1: Friday, 31 October 2025
Mathematics P2: Monday, 3 November 2025 -
when is physical sciences written?
Paper 1 (Physics): Friday, 7 November 2025
Paper 2 (Chemistry): Monday, 10 November 2025 -
what is the date for the matric pledge signing?
The pledge signing takes place on Friday, 17 October 2025. This is a commitment ceremony for ethical exam conduct.
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when is the life orientation (LO CAT) exam?
Main exam: Monday, 1 September 2025
Rewrite: Tuesday, 14 October 2025 -
which subjects have practical exams?
Subjects with practicals include:
Computer Applications Technology (CAT) P1
Information Technology (IT) P1
Visual Arts and Design (14–24 October)
Performing Arts (14 August–24 October)
Music, Engineering Graphics and Design, Marine Sciences, and others -
what should I do if I have two exams close together?
Plan ahead using the full timetable. Use weekends and gaps between exams for focused revision. Avoid cramming the night before.
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is there a break during the exams?
There are no formal holidays, but there are natural gaps in the timetable between some subjects that you can use for rest and study.
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how many weeks do the exams run?
The exams run for 6 weeks, from 21 October to 27 November 2025.
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where can I find the full NSC exam timetable 2025?
You can view or download it from the Department of Basic Education website or ask your school to provide a printed copy.
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who do I contact if I have exam-related questions?
The official contact is:
Dr RR Poliah
Chief Directorate: National Assessment and Public Examinations
📞 012 357 3900
