Matric certificates have unique security features to ensure they are not tampered with. However, the possibility of fraudulently acquired documents cannot be ruled out in today’s digital world order. If you want to verify your qualifications or you are an employer, you can do so via different agencies. Keep on reading to learn how to check the validity of a matric certificate.
How to Check the Validity of a Matric Certificate?
Employers and other higher institutions or regulatory authorities in South Africa can verify educational qualifications on the National Learner’s Records Database (NLRD), which is done via the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). NLRD holds information about different people’s qualifications to prevent cases of fraud.
Umalusi also plays a critical role in verifying matriculation qualifications that were offered from November 1992 going forward. Umalusi and MIE have a formal partnership in the verification of Grade 12 or Senior Certificates. The service offered is highly strict, and MIE was integrated to make the process seamless.
However, Umalusi works with different agencies located in various parts of the country instead of individuals. If you want your Matric certificate to be verified, you cannot apply directly to Umalusi, but through its registered verification clients. Remember, accredited agencies charge fees for providing verification services to clients. Therefore, get quotations from different agencies first to choose a fair deal.
What Is the Barcode on a Matric Certificate?
A matric certificate has several unique features to make it tamper-proof. The barcode is one of the security components you can find on your certificate. The barcode matches the certificate number on your document. It makes the certificate searchable in the database when you apply for a replacement. In other words, a barcode is a form of identity that makes your certificate unique.
Other security features on a matric certificate include the following:
- Umalusi watermark that is visible if you hold your certificate to light
- The National Coat of Arms found at the top of the certificate
- All certificates have rectangular blocks containing the candidate’s information and subject details
These features are not easy to copy. Once you tamper with the details on the certificate, it becomes invalid.
How Can I Check My Umalusi Certificate?
Umalusi deals with private agencies to help candidates check their matric certificates. You cannot physically deal with Umalusi if you want to verify your certificate. Umalusi published a list of agencies found in different locations across South Africa. These are the ones you should approach when you have certification issues.
Umalusi provides certificates to students who have obtained full qualifications and subject certificates. If you have two or more subject certificates, you can apply to have them combined. Umalusi also handles applications for re-issues and replacement certificates, meaning certification is an ongoing process.
Umalusi has since introduced an Online Application System for candidates who want replacement certificates. Applicants can access the system from any place as long as they have access to the Internet. It is also accessible via different devices like smartphones, tablets, or computers. With this new system, candidates can apply directly for replacement certificates.
The system has significantly reduced the time involved in procuring new certificates. For only R137, one can get their replacement certificate from Umalusi within two business days of submitting their application. You can also pay R202.00, including R65 for courier services if you want your certificate to be delivered to your home. Home delivery usually takes up to seven business days to any place in South Africa.
How Do I Find My Matric Certificate Number?
Your matric certificate number is found at the bottom right corner of the document. This unique serial number differentiates your certificate from others, and it is assigned to each candidate. A matric certificate also comes with other security features, such as the Umalusi watermark logo, and the National Coat of Arms at the top.
How Much Is the Replacement Fee for Umalusi?
Umalusi has rolled out a new system that can be used by candidates who want to apply for the replacement of lost or damaged matric certificates. The system was launched in March 2026, and it allows students to apply for certificate replacement online. Applicants can use different devices with access to the internet.
Replacing a certificate used to take up to six weeks, but the new system has reduced the turnaround time to only two working days. The replacement fee for Umalusi is R137.00, but you can pay an additional R65.00 for courier services if you want the certificate delivered to your home anywhere in South Africa.
To use the system, you must first create an account on the Umalusi website and select the service you want. People who have used the service have expressed satisfaction over its efficiency in solving the matric replacement certificate issue. All you need is to pay for the service and provide all the required details. Within a few days, you will get your certificate.
Different methods can be used to verify matric certificates. Umalusi is responsible for the verification exercise and offers the service in collaboration with other agencies. However, the new system introduced in March has come as a great relief to many people since it is fast. You can apply for your replacement certificate online for a reasonable fee of R137 or R202.00 if you want it to be couriered to your place.
