What Happens to Unclaimed Matric Results?

By Trev Gami •  Updated: 01/23/24 •  6 min read

Every year, Umalusi sends subject certificates and senior certificates to different institutions where the candidates matriculated. Students can also get statements of results from their respective centers where they wrote exams. Institutions are responsible for issuing results and certificates to students as well as keeping them safe. However, some individuals fail to claim their matric results for various reasons. Read on to learn more about what happens to unclaimed matric results.   

- ADVERTISEMENT -

What Happens to Unclaimed Matric Results?

All unclaimed matric results are kept at the respective institutions where the students wrote their exams. Schools are responsible for issuing certificates to students and safekeeping. However, some provinces like the Western Cape have challenged this status quo and issued Circular 110/2003, instructing schools to return unclaimed subject certificates and Senior Certificates to the Western Cape Education Department. 

All unclaimed matric results must be returned to the department within six months of receiving them. They should be submitted together with a list of collected certificates. The main issue is that students can still apply for new certificates from the WCED even if they have not collected them from their respective schools.        

Where Can I Get My Unclaimed Matric Certificate?

If you have not yet claimed your matric certificate, you must first go to your school to check if it is there. Schools have the responsibility of keeping records, including results statements for public examinations. However, if you don’t find your certificate at your institution, you can check with your local Department of Basic Education. You can get more details about your unclaimed certificate from the department. 

How Do I Get My Old Matric Results?

You can obtain your old matric results via the Department of Basic Education (DBE) or the Provincial Education Department (PED). If you completed your matric before 1992, you need to follow the steps below to get your old results.

When you have applied for a matric certificate which usually takes up to six weeks to be processed, you can obtain a result statement. This statement is processed while you wait. 

Alternatively, you can also get your old matric results from Umalusi. You need to first create your account on https://www.umalusi-online.org.za/replacementcertificate/account/register. Use your account to apply for a new matric certificate. You must scan the above documents to upload them in digital format. The application fee is R137 if you want to collect the certificate from the Umalusi offices in Pretoria or R202 if you want it to be delivered to your home.  

Can I Get My Matric Results With My ID Number?

There are different methods you can use to get matric results using your ID number. You can do this by downloading the MatricsMate Applicati on and installing it on your smartphone. Open the app’s dashboard and add your ID number, and examination number to create and register your account. Once the matric results have been released, you will get them on your device via the app. 

- ADVERTISEMENT -

The second option requires you to send an SMS with your ID number and exam number to 35658. Each SMS comprises a once-off cost of R3, and once you’re registered, your matric results will be sent by SMS to your mobile number when they’re released by the DBE. Be sure to be in a place with access to your mobile operator’s network.  

The USSD service is another method that allows you to get your matric results using your ID number. To register for the service, dial *120*35658# and follow the prompts on your mobile phone. The service comes with once-off costs, but you will get your results whenever they are available. You can opt out of the service to protect your privacy once you get your matric results.  

How Long Does It Take To Get a Lost Matric Certificate?

When you apply for a lost matric certificate from Umalusi, you should expect to get it within six weeks. The process might take longer, especially when the records are unavailable on the system. They must be retrieved from the archives first and then loaded into the system. However, a result statement is offered immediately while you wait for the certificate. 

To avoid delays in getting your matric certificate, make sure your application is complete. Download an application form from the Umalusi website and complete it. Make sure you scan the application form, which you must upload together with the following documents. 

You should double-check your application to ensure that it is error-free before submitting it. Never alter the documents you attach to your application for a new certificate. Moreover, once you apply for a new certificate, the previous one is canceled in the system. Even if you find the old certificate believed to be lost, it would be invalid when an application for a new one is received and processed. 

If you have not yet claimed your matric certificate, you must check with your school first. When you fail to get it, this means it might have been returned to the DBE. You can visit your local Department of Education to get the certificate. You can also apply for a replacement from Umalusi or the DBE by following simple steps. However, it can take up to six weeks to process a new certificate. A statement of results is processed instantly. 

- ADVERTISEMENT -

Keep Reading

How to Find Your Matric Examination Number

How to Find Your Matric Examination Number

It’s very important that you retain your matric examination number and can access it when needed. Here’s how to find it.

What Does an Incomplete Matric Result Mean?

What Does an Incomplete Matric Result Mean?

What Does an Incomplete Matric Result Mean? We will also look a little more closely at the supplementary exam sessions and what to expect.

How to Check Matric Rewrite Results Online

How to Check Matric Rewrite Results Online

Once the results are out, you can check them online. Read on to learn how to view your Matric rewrite exams online.  

How Much Do Matric Markers Get Paid In South Africa

How Much Do Matric Markers Get Paid In South Africa

How to Pass Matric

How to Pass Matric

Can I Get a Learnership Without a Matric?

Can I Get a Learnership Without a Matric?

Can I Get a Learnership Without a Matric? Here’s what you should know about matric without learnership

How Many Times Can You Write Matric?

How Many Times Can You Write Matric?

This comprehensive guide aims to provide information on the number of times one can rewrite matric, the time frame for rewriting exams

How To Access Your Matric Results Online

How To Access Your Matric Results Online

How To Access Your Matric Results Online. Looking to write matric exams? Are you prepared for matric results - then keep reading to find out more. 

Matric Results: Things to Do If You Do Not Pass

Matric Results: Things to Do If You Do Not Pass

If you have failed your matric, these are some things you should consider to find a new way forward.

Is Matric And Grade 12 The Same Thing?

Is Matric And Grade 12 The Same Thing?

What comes into your thoughts when matric and grade 12 are mentioned? Do you think they are the same, or are there some differences?

Which App Can I Use to Check Matric Results?

Which App Can I Use to Check Matric Results?

This guide explains a step-by-step approach you can take to access your matric results via an app. 

How Many Times Can You Rewrite Matric?

How Many Times Can You Rewrite Matric?

How Many Times Can You Rewrite Matric?. Today we will look at everything you need to know to rewrite matric.

Can You Join the Army Without Matric?

Can You Join the Army Without Matric?

Can You Join the Army Without Matric? This blog post will detail the possibility of joining the army without a matric.

Tips On How To Pass Matric In South Africa Without Breaking A Sweat

Tips On How To Pass Matric In South Africa Without Breaking A Sweat

This guide aims to provide valuable tips on how to pass matric in South Africa without breaking a sweat.

Why Your Matric Results Are Being Withheld

Why Your Matric Results Are Being Withheld

Let us find out more about why your matric results are being withheld and insightful information to help you in your matric.