The Independent Examinations Board (IEB) has announced a 98.31% pass rate for the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.
The board revealed that 17,000 candidates wrote the examinations with 89.12% achieving entry to study for a degree, which is slightly down from 2024.
RESULTS FOR 2025 ACADEMIC YEAR
According to the IEB, about 7.83% qualified for diploma study, compared to 7.56% in 2024 and 1.34% achieved entry to Higher Certificate study, compared to 1.53% in 2024. Meanwhile, 0.02% achieved an endorsed NSC.
The IEB CEO Confidence Dikgole explained that as the IEB continues to grow, welcoming new schools and expanding geographically, small fluctuations in aggregate pass rates are both statistically expected and internationally observed in stable assessment systems.
”What is important is that performance levels remain consistently high, standards are maintained, and access to degree study remains strong.
“In a context of sustained growth and changing learning environments, the consistency of these results is, in fact, reassuring,” she said.
The Northern Cape has the lowest participation with only three schools taking part. Gauteng topped the list with the highest number of IEB exam candidates and participating schools.
Meanwhile, 161 students have been recognised for being in the top 5% in six subjects with Level 7 in Life Orientation.
The IEB has commended the NSC Class of 2025 for their hard work.
“To every learner whether you achieved your goal this year or not your path forward remains open. South Africa’s education system offers multiple routes to success, and perseverance remains the most important qualification of all,” said Dikgole.
REMARKING APPLICATIONS
Candidates who wish to request a remark must submit their applications by 30 January 2026. Results will be released on 4 March 2026, pending Umalusi approval.
MINISTER GWARUBE TO RELEASE MATRIC RESULTS FOR PUBLIC SCHOOLS
The Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, is set to release the public school matric pass rate on Monday in Johannesburg. Individual results will be released on Tuesday.
