Can You Fail Math and Still Pass Matric?

By Trev Gami •  Updated: 01/23/24 •  7 min read
MATRIC

Wondering if you can pass matric without Mathematics? The pass rate in Maths is very poor since few students pass this subject in Matric. Poor performance in Maths can be attributed to various factors. However, one can still pass Matric even when they fail Maths. This article explains everything you should know about Maths at Matric level. 

Can You Fail Math and Still Pass Matric?

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Yes, you can pass your Matric without Math. Candidates can fail any subject excluding their Home language. However, they should not fail two subjects or more.

Do You Need to Pass Maths to Pass Matric?

No Maths does not affect your matric pass even if you fail the subject. If you obtain a Bachelor’s pass without Maths, you can proceed to university. However, other courses demand Maths as a requirement for admission. Therefore, you need to first find out the courses you can study without Maths. 

What Is a Pass Mark for Maths?

Maths has no specific pass mark. However, it is recommended that you should aim to get at least 50% in Maths and other subjects to have good marks that can earn you a place of study in university. Other universities require prospective students to have specific marks in maths. Most of these institutions consider students with 60% and above for admission. 

Why Do Most Learners Fail Maths?

Most learners in Matric fail Maths due to various reasons, and negative attitude is chief among them. Most students think Maths is difficult, so they develop a negative attitude toward it. The situation is compounded by lack of study because those who believe they are poor in Maths don’t see the reason for wasting their time. In some cases, inexperienced educators can contribute to the problem of poor performance in Maths.  

What Should I Do if I Fail in Maths?

If you fail Maths only in Matric, you can choose other tertiary courses that do not require the subject for admission purposes. However, if you fail Maths in your class test or assignment, you must keep practising to understand it. With commitment, you can significantly improve your performance.  

How Many Subjects Do You Have to Fail to Fail Matric?

Matric students can only fail one subject out of seven subjects to pass their matric. If you fail two or more subjects, it means you have failed your matric. In the case of Adult Matric, candidates can only fail one subject out of six subjects to pass Matric. 

Which Course Doesn’t Require Maths?

Several courses do not require Maths in South Africa which are offered by different institutions. The following are some of the courses you can do without Maths.  

The University of South Africa offers the following courses to individuals without Mathematics.

These are some of the courses you can do without Maths. It is vital to check if a certain institution accepts students without Maths before applying. 

Why Is It Better to Pass Maths Lit Than Fail Maths in Matric?

Passing Mathematical literature is better than failing Mathematics in Matric. Mathematical Literacy is simple compared to Maths. However, with Maths, you will enjoy many benefits. For instance, it is easier to get into university and other tertiary institutions, but it is not easy to get a place in a university with Mathematical literacy. Most universities accept students with an A in Mathematical literacy. The other thing is that this subject limits your career paths.   

What Are the 4 Compulsory Subjects?

Students in Matric Study seven subjects, and four of them are compulsory. These compulsory subjects include Home Language, English First Additional Language, Life Orientation, and a mathematical subject (Mathematical Literacy or Mathematics). 

Here is a list of four compulsory languages you can choose for Matric in South Africa, depending on your Home language.

Although Maths is a crucial subject, you can still pass matric without it. Other candidates can even achieve a Bachelor’s Pass without Maths. However, some universities require prospective students to have Maths as a requirement for admission. Therefore, you should check if the course you want to study requires Maths before applying.   

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