Dept Releases May/June Matric Exam Timetable 2027 – A Detailed Guide

For many South African students, the May/June Matric exams represent an important opportunity to improve their academic standing before the final National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams at the end of the year. These exams are critical for students who need to make up for missed or failed subjects and serve as a stepping stone to achieving their academic goals.

As we approach the middle of 2027, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) has officially released the May/June Matric Exam Timetable, providing learners with the specific dates and times for each subject. Understanding this timetable is crucial for effective exam preparation, and in this blog post, we will guide you through everything you need to know about the upcoming exams.

From the exam timetable and essential tips for preparation to how you can access the timetable and the re-write process, this article will ensure that you are fully prepared for the May/June exams.

What Are the May/June Matric Exams?

The May/June Matric exams are part of South Africa’s alternative examination cycle, designed for students who did not perform well during the November NSC exams or who were unable to sit for them. These exams offer students a second chance to pass their matric year and improve their results before the final Matric exams later in the year.

While many students sit for the final November exams, the May/June exams are specifically for:

• Students who failed certain subjects in the previous November exam cycle.
• Learners who missed the November exams due to illness or other valid reasons.
• Repeat Matriculants who are attempting their final year for the second or third time.

The May/June exams also give students a chance to improve their grades before the final results are used to apply for universities, colleges, or other post-school opportunities.

When Will the May/June 2027 Matric Exams Take Place?

According to the Department of Basic Education, the May/June Matric exams for 2027 will be held between May 2027 and June 2027. Exact dates are listed in the official timetable and are subject to changes by the DBE, so it’s vital for students to keep track of any updates.

For those participating in these exams, it’s essential to know that the timetable is likely to be different from the final October/November exams. These exams typically begin in the second or third week of May, and they continue through to the first week of June.

Here are the general timelines you should keep in mind:

• Start Date: Mid-May 2027 (exact start date to be confirmed by DBE).
• End Date: Early June 2027 (usually the first week of June).
• Results Release Date: Results are typically released in late July 2027, and learners can access them online or through their schools.

How to Download the May/June 2027 Matric Exam Timetable

The May/June 2027 Matric exam timetable can be downloaded directly from the official Department of Basic Education website. It’s important for students to access this document as soon as it’s made available so they can plan their study schedules accordingly.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to downloading the exam timetable:

1. Visit the Official Department of Basic Education Website: Go to www.education.gov.za.
2. Navigate to the Examination and Assessment Section: On the homepage, look for the section that provides access to exam timetables and other important documents.
3. Select the 2027 May/June Matric Timetable: The May/June timetable should be listed under “Examination Timetables.” Click on the link to open the timetable in PDF format.
4. Download the Timetable: Save the PDF document to your device, or print it out for easy reference.
5. Check for Updates: Occasionally, the DBE may issue changes or corrections to the timetable, so ensure you’re checking the website regularly.

Once downloaded, ensure you keep a copy of the timetable handy, either on your phone or printed, so that you can easily track your exam dates and study accordingly.

Key Exam Dates and Subject-Specific Timetable

The timetable for the May/June exams covers a wide range of subjects, and students will need to be aware of their individual exam schedules. Here are some important subjects typically offered in the May/June exams:

• Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy
• Physical Sciences
• Life Sciences
• English Home Language and First Additional Language
• Accounting
• Business Studies
• History
• Geography
• Economics
• Consumer Studies

Each of these subjects has specific exam dates, and students should refer to the official timetable to ensure they know the exact date and time of their exams.

The timetable will also indicate whether the exam is for a written exam or a practical component. Subjects like Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, and certain languages may include practicals, which will have separate exam dates.

Tips for Preparing for the May/June Matric Exams

Preparing for the May/June Matric exams can be intense, especially if you’re trying to improve your results. Here are some essential tips to help you get the most out of your revision:

1. Create a Realistic Study Plan

The first step in preparing for your exams is to organize your time effectively. Take a look at the exam timetable and mark your exam dates on a calendar. Then, allocate sufficient study time for each subject. Ensure you focus on areas you struggled with during the previous exam cycle.

2. Practice Past Papers

One of the best ways to prepare for Matric exams is by practicing past exam papers. This will give you an idea of the types of questions to expect, the format of the exams, and the areas that are frequently tested. The Department of Basic Education provides access to past papers on its website, so make use of this valuable resource.

3. Attend Revision Classes or Tutorials

If you’re struggling with specific subjects, consider attending revision classes or seeking additional help from tutors. Many schools offer extra classes before the May/June exams, and there are online platforms that provide tailored lessons and study tips.

4. Stay Healthy

It’s easy to neglect your health during exam preparation, but maintaining a balanced diet, regular sleep schedule, and physical activity is essential for both your mental and physical well-being. Stress can affect your performance, so make sure to take regular breaks during study sessions.

5. Form Study Groups

Studying in groups can be very effective, especially for subjects like History or Business Studies. Collaborating with classmates allows you to share knowledge, clarify doubts, and motivate each other to stay focused. However, make sure your study sessions stay productive and on-topic.

6. Stay Positive and Confident

Exam anxiety can be overwhelming, but a positive mindset can make all the difference. Remember, the May/June exams are your chance to improve. Believe in your abilities, stay focused on your goals, and approach the exams with confidence.

What to Do If You Don’t Pass the May/June Exams

If you don’t perform as well as you hoped in the May/June exams, don’t despair. There are options for learners who don’t meet the required criteria:

• Supplementary Exams: Students who fail one or two subjects may apply to sit for supplementary exams, usually held later in the year (typically in February/March 2026).
• Rewriting the Matric: If you didn’t pass all your subjects, you may choose to re-enroll for another year of Matric and rewrite the exams in 2026.

The May/June 2027 Matric exams are an important opportunity for students to either improve their marks or make up for subjects they may have failed during the November exams. It’s essential to plan ahead, stay organized, and take advantage of the resources available to you in preparation for these exams.

By downloading the official timetable, creating a solid study plan, and following effective revision strategies, you will be well on your way to achieving better results. Best of luck as you prepare for these crucial exams!

Application Link for Matric Students

For more information on the 2027 May/June Matric exam timetable and to download the official timetable, visit the Department of Basic Education website here.