What Is The Difference Between Matric Rewrite And Upgrade?
What Is The Difference Between Matric Rewrite And Upgrade?
What Is The Difference Between Matric Rewrite And Upgrade?
Matric Rewrite and Upgrade 2025: Application Steps and Study Options:
If you did not get the matric results you were hoping for, you might be wondering whether you should choose a matric rewrite or a matric upgrade. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they are not the same, and understanding the difference can help you pick the best option for your education and career goals.
A matric rewrite is designed for students who wrote their final exams but did not pass or did not achieve the marks required for a full National Senior Certificate (NSC). This option allows you to rewrite the same subjects to improve your results and qualify for a matric certificate. It is usually offered to learners who have completed Grade 12 recently and want another chance to meet the minimum pass requirements.
A matric upgrade, on the other hand, is for students who already have a matric certificate but want to improve specific subject marks. This could be to qualify for university admission, meet course entry requirements, or boost job opportunities. With an upgrade, you can choose which subjects to improve, and you do not need to rewrite all of them, just the ones where you would like higher marks.
The major difference lies in your starting point: rewrite is for those who still need to pass matric, while upgrade is for those who have passed but want better results. Both options can open doors to further education, bursaries, and better career prospects, so the right choice depends on your current qualifications and plans. Understanding this distinction will guide you to the path that best supports your academic and professional goals.
What Is A Matric Rewrite?
A matric rewrite, often called a supplementary exam, gives learners a chance to improve their original matric results. It allows you to re-write only the subjects you failed or those you wish to boost for a higher mark. Achieving better scores can raise your Admission Point Score (APS), opening the door to better university placements and stronger job opportunities.
To qualify for a matric rewrite, you must be under 21 years old and may rewrite up to four subjects. This age and subject limit is one of the main factors that distinguishes a rewrite from a full matric upgrade.
Rewrite exams are normally offered twice a year, and applications for the 2025 session open in October 2024. When the official exam timetable is released, you only need to sit for the subjects you have chosen to rewrite. Once you receive your improved results, you can apply for a replacement matric certificate so that your higher marks appear on your official record.
Rewrites are best for learners who:
- Want to pass subjects they previously failed.
- Need to meet the minimum requirements for a higher certificate, diploma, or degree.
- Recently finished matric and want a second chance without starting over.
Features of a Matric Rewrite
- Timeframe: Usually within the next exam cycle or up to five years after your first attempt.
- Eligibility: You must already have written the National Senior Certificate exams and have an exam number or statement of results.
- Purpose: Ideal for improving a few specific subjects to meet minimum entry requirements for higher certificates, diplomas, or degree studies.
- Support Options: You can register at a TVET college, adult education centre, or accredited private college for extra classes and exam preparation.
A rewrite is perfect if you narrowly missed the pass mark, need to qualify for a bursary, or want to raise your average to meet tertiary requirements soon after finishing school.
What Is A Matric Upgrade?
A matric upgrade, officially called the Amended Senior Certificate (ASC), offers adults aged 21 and older the chance to improve their original matric results. This age requirement is one of the key distinctions between a matric upgrade and a rewrite. Unlike a rewrite, there is no limit to how many times you can upgrade your matric.
Upgrading is open to anyone who either failed matric and wants to pass or who wishes to increase their marks for better opportunities. Candidates can register for up to four subjects and may even change as many as four subjects from their original selection. While you must keep the compulsory subjects, you can choose to switch the type of mathematics—such as moving from Mathematical Literacy to pure Mathematics or vice versa.
After completing the exams and receiving your improved results, you can apply to combine your old and new marks. The Department of Basic Education will then issue a replacement matric certificate showcasing your best scores. This updated certificate can be used to gain entry to higher education programmes or to qualify for better employment opportunities.
Upgrades are best for learners who:
- Want to improve marks to qualify for university or college admission.
- Completed matric years ago and want to enhance their certificate.
- Need better grades to access more career opportunities.
Features of a Matric Upgrade
- No Time Limit: You can upgrade your results whether you matriculated last year or decades ago.
- Flexible Learning: Many students choose distance learning, part-time classes, or online programs so they can work while studying.
- Subject Choices: You may rewrite existing subjects or even choose different subjects to improve your overall points for university or job applications.
- Goal-Driven: Most learners upgrade to gain entry into competitive university programs such as medicine, law, or engineering where high marks are essential.
This option is perfect for adults who want a career change, missed out on university previously, or simply wish to achieve personal goals by improving their academic record.
What Is The Difference Between Matric Rewrite And Upgrade?
Below are the differences between matric rewrite and matric upgrade:
Who Can Apply:
- Matric Rewrite: Must have previously appeared for the matric
- Matric Upgrade: It can also be registered by those who have previously not appeared for the matric
Exam Date:
- Matric Rewrite: Takes place twice a year: May/June and November
- Matric Upgrade: Takes place twice a year: May/June and November
Purpose:
- Matric Rewrite: Retake a maximum of four original subjects to improve overall matric score
- Matric Upgrade: Retake a maximum of 4 subjects, with an option to change subjects to improve the score.
Learning Options:
- Matric Rewrite: Often full-time or part-time classes
- Matric Upgrade: Distance learning, part-time, or in-person
Outcome:
- Matric Rewrite: New statement of results with better marks
- Matric Upgrade: New NSC certificate with improved results
How to Apply for Matric Rewrite and Matric Upgrade
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has made it simple for students to apply for either a matric rewrite or a matric upgrade. It’s important to complete the application form accurately and attach all the required documents.
For a matric rewrite, applicants must have already written the matric exams before. You’ll need to provide your original results and a certified copy of your ID. Certification can be done at a police station by a Commissioner of Oaths or by an attorney.
For a matric upgrade, you do not need to have passed matric previously, but if you have written before, you must also submit your previous statement of results along with a certified ID copy.
Steps to Register:
- Visit the DBE website or go to your nearest provincial education office.
- Complete the online registration form carefully, ensuring all details are correct.
- Upload or submit the required documents, such as your ID and previous results if applicable.
Once your application is processed, you will receive confirmation of your registration and details about the exam schedule. Be sure to check deadlines, as late applications may not be accepted.
How to Decide Between Matric Rewrite And Upgrade?
When choosing between these two options, ask yourself:
How long ago did I finish matric?
- Less than five years: Rewrite is often easier.
- More than five years: Upgrade is the standard choice.
What are my career or study goals?
- Need a small mark increase to qualify for a course? Rewrite.
- Need to compete for high-demand university programs? Upgrade.
Do I need flexible study options?
- If you are working or have other commitments, the part-time flexibility of an upgrade might suit you best.
Programmes Available After a Matric Rewrite or Upgrade
Improving your matric results can open doors to a wide range of university and college programmes that match your career goals. Whether you are interested in business, law, public management, or technology, you can choose a qualification that builds the skills and knowledge you need for long-term success.
Some popular study options include:
Business and Finance
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
- BCom in Banking and Financial Services
- Higher Certificate in Business Management (HCBM)
- Bachelor of Accounting Science (BCOMPT)
Public Sector and Law
- Bachelor of Public Management (BPM)
- Higher Certificate in Public Management (HCPM)
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
Technology and Science
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
These programmes can lead to exciting careers in management, government, law, finance, and IT, giving you a solid foundation for advancement in your chosen field. After receiving your improved matric certificate, explore universities, TVET colleges, and accredited private institutions to find the programme that best fits your ambitions and entry requirements.
Is It Good To Improve Your Matric
A stronger matric certificate can unlock:
- Admission to universities and universities of technology.
- Better job opportunities in both public and private sectors.
- Eligibility for bursaries or scholarships.
- Personal confidence and a sense of achievement.
Contact:
- Email: SecondChance@dbe.gov.za
- SMS/Calls: +27 63 696 7246 (Enquiries)
- WozaMatrics WhatsApp: 061 505 3023
The difference between a matric rewrite and a matric upgrade comes down to timing, purpose, and flexibility. A rewrite is best for recent school leavers who want to quickly improve or pass specific subjects. An upgrade is for anyone, no matter their age, who wants to significantly improve marks or even select new subjects to boost career and study prospects. Whether you choose to rewrite or upgrade, both options give you a valuable second chance to strengthen your academic record and move closer to your dream career or further studies. Visit this Website For More
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