What are the disadvantages of upgrading matric results in South Africa?
Upgrading matric results is a second chance to improve your marks. It can help you achieve better scores and gain admission into the degree program you want to pursue. Nevertheless, before deciding to rewrite your matric, you should consider potential drawbacks and explore other alternatives. If you want to understand the disadvantages of upgrading matric results, alternative options, and other important details about rewriting your matric, read the information below.
Source: UGC
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Key takeaways
- What are the disadvantages of upgrading matric results in 2026?
- Alternatives to upgrading matric results
- Is it good to upgrade your matric results?
- How many times can you upgrade your matric?
- What do you need to apply for a matric rewrite?
- Which colleges help upgrade matric results?
- How much does it cost to rewrite matric in South Africa?
- Where can you upgrade your matric results for free?
- What happens to your matric certificate when you upgrade?
- How are matric rewrite marks calculated?
- What's the difference between supplementary and upgrading?
- Can you study while upgrading?
- Can you upgrade my matric results while in university?
- How long does it take to upgrade matric results?
- Where can you upgrade your matric results in Mokopane?
- Can you upgrade your matric at Oxbridge Academy?
- Where can you upgrade your matric results in Mafikeng?
- Where can you upgrade your matric results in Bloemfontein?
- Which college can you rewrite your matric around Pretoria?
- Does Boston College offer matric rewrites?
- What happens when you upgrade your matric results and fail?
- When is the closing date for the upgrading of matric results?
- What are the disadvantages of rewriting?
- What are the disadvantages of going to a higher education institution?
- What are the disadvantages of the curriculum change from NCS to CAPS?
- What are the disadvantages of evaluation in education?
Key takeaways
- Upgrading matric results provides learners with an opportunity to improve their marks, but it also presents several challenges.
- The process can be stressful and time-consuming.
- Success is not guaranteed, even after rewriting exams.
- Financial costs and extra tuition can be significant for some students.
- Alternative academic pathways, such as diplomas, certificates, and vocational training, are available.
- Planning carefully and understanding the risks ensures better decision-making.
What are the disadvantages of upgrading matric results in 2026?
Learners often choose to upgrade their matric results to improve their scores. However, this process has drawbacks and risks that are important to consider. Below are the main disadvantages of upgrading matric results in South Africa:
1. Increased stress and pressure to perform
Many candidates feel pressured to improve their marks the second time around. The stress and anxiety can be overwhelming and may lead to health issues such as migraines, nausea, headaches, and fatigue. High stress levels can even affect your confidence and performance.
2. No guarantee of better results
Upgrading matric results does not guarantee higher marks. Even after rewriting, you may not reach the cut-off scores required for your preferred degree course.
3. Time-consuming process
Preparing for and attending additional classes takes time, which can be challenging for students with work, family, or other commitments.
4. Financial costs
Extra tuition, study materials, and exam fees can make upgrading matric results expensive, especially for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
5. Limited impact on university admission
Improved marks do not always guarantee entry into specific degree programs. Universities also consider overall academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and other factors during shortlisting and admissions.
Source: Getty Images
Alternatives to upgrading matric results
You can still advance your education and make it in life without upgrading your matric results. These are the recommended alternatives for matric rewrites:
1. Alternative degree programs
Students who fail to meet a particular degree's cut-off marks and admission requirements can apply for alternative academic programs that require lower admission requirements and scores.
2. Certificate or diploma programs
You can take a certificate or diploma program. They provide similar valuable skills and training that degree courses have to offer. You might even get more intense and practical training in a certificate or diploma program compared to a degree course.
3. Bridging courses
You can do a bridging course instead of upgrading your matric results. Bridging courses provide additional support and prepare students struggling to meet the academic requirements for a particular degree or program.
4. Vocational training and TVET college matric upgrade
Vocational programs focus on practical skills in industries such as healthcare, construction, hospitality, and technology. TVET colleges also offer matriculation upgrade programs, which are more accessible due to their lower academic entry requirements.
Source: Getty Images
Is it good to upgrade your matric results?
It is an excellent idea as it allows you to get better marks to join the university or degree course of your choice. However, you must make sure you also meet the set university requirements.
How many times can you upgrade your matric?
There is no limit to the times you can rewrite your matric as long as you are 21 years or older. You can reapply for a matric upgrade if you have your initial final matric exam marks or incomplete matric results.
What do you need to apply for a matric rewrite?
You need a copy of your statement of results and a certified copy of your ID. With these, you can apply for the rewrite in learning institutions that offer Matric Rewrite courses, such as Bellview Institute of Distance Learning.
Which colleges help upgrade matric results?
Look for colleges in South Africa where learners rewrite their matric exams. Some offer tuition at a fee. Here are some of them and their locations:
Eastern Cape
- St John's College, Mthatha
- Academy of Business and Computer Studies, East London
- PE College, Old Iqhayiya Campus.
- Lameka FET College, PE
- Jeppe Education Centre, Polokwane
Gauteng
- Tshwane South College (Formerly known as PTA Tech), Atteridgeville
- Tshwane North College (Formerly known as Pretoria College), Pretoria
- Greenwood College (Church Street and Prince Park Avenue)
Johannesburg
- Central Johannesburg College
- Star School, Braamfontein
- Ekurhuleni West College
- Funda Community College, located near Bara Hospital
- Oxford Combined College, Kempton Park
How much does it cost to rewrite matric in South Africa?
When you register to upgrade matric results, it is free at the Department of Basic Education (DBE). The only cost is the fees of the college or school where you study for your rewrite. Candidates pay different fees depending on the number of subjects and the timeline.
Where can you upgrade your matric results for free?
You can upgrade your matric for free at the Department of Basic Education (DBE).
What happens to your matric certificate when you upgrade?
Once you are done with your upgrade and have successfully improved the selected marks, you can merge the new marks with those you did not choose to improve, meaning all your desired marks can be on one certificate.
How are matric rewrite marks calculated?
Your final matric exams account for 75% of your final exam score. Hence, your final exam marks have the most impact on your adult matric results.
Source: Getty Images
What's the difference between supplementary and upgrading?
Supplementary is when a candidate writes their matric but does not make it, and is given another opportunity to write and acquire it. However, upgrading is when a candidate rewrites several subjects they passed but want a better grade. For example, if an individual got 30 but initially wanted 60.
Can you study while upgrading?
Some higher educational institutions in SA can allow you to begin your studies while upgrading your matric results. Most will let you start with the lower qualification, such as a diploma, and later proceed to a Bachelor's degree once you have upgraded your marks.
Can you upgrade my matric results while in university?
Some universities in South Africa will allow you to begin your diploma or certificate studies while upgrading your matric results. You cannot upgrade your matric while doing a degree course.
How long does it take to upgrade matric results?
A matric upgrade program takes about a year to complete. Some students do it for two years or more to get enough study time and prepare for exams.
Where can you upgrade your matric results in Mokopane?
You should enroll at the Mokopane Matric Rewrite Centre. Educators at this facility teach concepts that help students improve their marks.
Can you upgrade your matric at Oxbridge Academy?
Courses at Oxbridge Academy allow you to rewrite Matric or upgrade your subjects.
Where can you upgrade your matric results in Mafikeng?
Masccom Training Centre is a matric upgrading center for mathematics, physical sciences, and life sciences.
Where can you upgrade your matric results in Bloemfontein?
Whitestone College has enabled many students to boost their matric results.
Which college can you rewrite your matric around Pretoria?
You can rewrite your matric in Pretoria at Tshwane College, Brooklyn City College, EDUSA College, and the DSDC College of SA.
Does Boston College offer matric rewrites?
Boston College does not offer matric rewrites.
What happens when you upgrade your matric results and fail?
If you do not achieve the desired marks, you can attempt the rewrite again. However, repeated failures may increase stress and financial burden.
When is the closing date for the upgrading of matric results?
The closing dates for upgrading matric results vary depending on the institution and year. It is essential to verify the official registration dates with your chosen college or the Department of Basic Education.
Source: Getty Images
What are the disadvantages of rewriting?
Rewriting exams can be stressful, costly, and time-consuming. It may not guarantee better results and can create unnecessary pressure on students.
What are the disadvantages of going to a higher education institution?
Higher education can be expensive, competitive, and stressful. Some students may face challenges balancing studies with work or family responsibilities.
What are the disadvantages of the curriculum change from NCS to CAPS?
Frequent curriculum changes can confuse students and teachers, requiring adaptation to new learning methods and assessment styles. This may affect learning outcomes.
What are the disadvantages of evaluation in education?
Evaluation systems sometimes focus too much on exam scores rather than practical skills. This can create pressure and may not reflect a learner’s full abilities or potential.
Upgrading your matric can be a good thing for solidifying your career path. However, you must evaluate the disadvantages of upgrading matric results, such as increased pressure and stress, to ensure they do not outweigh the benefits.
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