How to Apply For Marking Matric Papers 2025

By Dave Nyam •  Updated: 01/09/25 •  6 min read

Applying to mark matric papers in South Africa is a crucial process that involves qualified teachers assessing and capturing the results of exam scripts. This comprehensive guide aims to provide step-by-step instructions on how to apply for marking matric papers for the year 2025. The guide will outline the requirements for becoming a matric marker and explain the process of marking matric papers. Additionally, it will provide information on the minimum pass mark for matric, the pass requirements for the National Senior Certificate (NSC), and who qualifies to write NSC exams. By following this guide, prospective markers and individuals seeking information about the matric marking

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process can better understand the application process and the requirements involved.

How to Apply For Marking Matric Papers 2025

To apply for marking matric papers in 2025, individuals must follow the application process outlined by the Department of Basic Education in South Africa. The application system for markers is typically open for a specific period. For the 2025 National Senior Certificate and 2025 Senior Certificate examinations, the marker application system was open from February 24 to April 16, 2025.

Here are the steps to apply for marking matric papers:

  1. Visit the marker application system: Access the online marker application system provided by the Department of Basic Education. The specific website for application may vary, so it is essential to refer to the official instructions and announcements.
  2. Read the instructions: Carefully review all the instructions and guidelines on the application system. The duties of several positions, including internal moderators, chief, deputy chief, senior, and other markers, will be outlined in these instructions.
  3. Knowing the specifications Learn about the specifications for each position. These prerequisites can include holding an education degree, having completed a certain number of years of teaching, and being an authority on the subject you plan to grade.
  4. Fill out the form completely: Complete the online marker application system’s application form. Follow the directions for submitting the application, taking care to accurately enter all the necessary information.
  5. Application submission: Once the application form is finished, submit it using the procedure provided in the online marker application system. To be taken into account for the marking procedure, make sure to submit your application by the deadline.

How Much Do Marking Assistants Make?

The compensation for marking assistants, also known as markers, in the matric marking process varies based on different factors, including the position held, the number of scripts marked, and the specific examination body. In South Africa, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) are the main examination bodies involved in the matric marking process. While the exact payment rates for marking assistants may differ between these bodies and can change from year to year, the following information can provide an overview of the compensation for markers:

  1. Department of Basic Education (DBE):
    • Chief markers and deputy chief markers: These positions oversee the marking process and ensure consistency. They receive higher remuneration compared to other markers.
    • Senior markers and markers: These positions involve marking exam scripts. The payment rates for senior markers and markers can vary based on the number of scripts marked and the subject marked.
    • Payment structure: The DBE generally provides a base rate per script marked, which can vary depending on the subject. Markers may also receive additional allowances or incentives based on their performance and the completion of assigned duties.
  2. Independent Examinations Board (IEB):
    • The IEB is a separate examination body responsible for conducting independent assessments. The compensation for markers appointed by the IEB may differ from the DBE markers.
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    • The payment rates for markers appointed by the IEB are typically based on the subject being marked and the level of qualification and experience of the marker.

It’s important to note that the payment rates for marking assistants can change yearly and are determined by the respective examination bodies. To obtain accurate and up-to-date information on payment rates, prospective markers should refer to the official announcements and guidelines provided by the Department of Basic Education or the Independent Examinations Board.

What is the Minimum Pass Mark for Matric?

The minimum pass mark for matric in South Africa is determined by the Department of Basic Education. To obtain the National Senior Certificate (NSC), the qualification awarded upon successful completion of matric, candidates must meet specific requirements.

The National Senior Certificate necessitates that candidates meet certain minimum requirements in order to obtain it. These requirements are as follows:

  1. Attain a cumulative score of 40% in three academic subjects, with one subject being an official language studied at the Home Language level.
  2. Attain 30% in three other subjects.

Additionally, candidates must provide full evidence in the School-Based Assessment (SBA) component of the subjects offered.

It’s important to note that the minimum pass mark applies to individual subjects and is not required for the overall aggregate mark. Each subject is assessed separately, and candidates must meet the minimum pass mark for each subject to obtain the NSC.

Candidates who meet these minimum requirements will receive a National Senior Certificate, indicating their successful completion of matric. However, it’s essential to understand that these are the minimum pass requirements, and candidates aiming for further studies or specific career paths may have higher requirements imposed by universities, colleges, or employers.

What are the Pass Requirements for NSC?

To obtain the National Senior Certificate (NSC) in South Africa, candidates must fulfill specific pass requirements set by the Department of Basic Education. The NSC is the qualification awarded to candidates who successfully complete matric.

The pass requirements for the NSC are as follows:

  1. Language requirement: Candidates must achieve at least 40% in their home language at the Home Language level.
  2. Minimum subject requirements: Candidates must attain a minimum of 30% in three other subjects.

In addition to these minimum requirements, candidates must provide full evidence in the School-Based Assessment (SBA) component for the subjects they offer.

Who Qualifies to Write NSC Exams?

The National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams in South Africa are primarily aimed at Grade 12 learners, providing them with an opportunity to obtain a matric qualification. However, certain conditions determine who qualifies to write the NSC exams.

The following groups of individuals are eligible to write the NSC exams:

  1. Current Grade 12 learners: Learners currently in Grade 12 are automatically eligible to write the NSC exams. These learners must register for the exams before the specified deadline, usually around March of the year they intend to write the final examination.
  2. NSC candidates seeking improvement: Individuals who have previously obtained the NSC and wish to improve their results can register as part-time candidates for the NSC examinations. This applies to candidates whose certificates have not been changed to Senior Certificate (SC) and who meet the criteria for registration as determined by the Department of Basic Education.
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