The quality assurance body, Umalusi, has confirmed that South Africa is broadly ready to conduct the 2026 year-end national examinations, with approximately 1.08 million candidates sitting at 9 183 examination centres.
The quality assurance body conducted a state-of-readiness audit between 24 August and 30 September, assessing candidate registration, staffing, question paper security, marking capacity and systems to manage examination irregularities.
In a statement, Umalusi says it externally moderated and approved 283 subject question papers across the General Education and Training Certificate, National Certificate Level 4 and National Senior Certificate qualifications.
The council’s CEO, Mafu Rakometsi, says all candidates have received their examination admission letters and timetables, while eligible candidates have been granted concessions and accommodations, including extra time and question papers adapted into braille and large print.
“Where concerns remain, corrective measures are being implemented by assessment bodies and closely monitored by Umalusi. The areas of concern identified are not systemic and do not threaten the overall credibility or integrity of the 2026 examinations,” said Rakometsi
Rakometsi, however, says the Department of Basic Education reported marker shortages in Afrikaans Home Language, English Home Language and History. Umalusi says it is confident the department’s plan to begin marking early and phase the process will mitigate the risk.
The body also confirmed that the mark-capturing systems used by all four assessment bodies comply with its requirements. A double-entry process will be used, with one official capturing marks and another verifying them. Assessment bodies have been urged to take necessary steps to prevent examination irregularities, and candidates have been warned against using unlawful means to gain an unfair advantage.
With local government elections scheduled for 4 November during the examination period, Umalusi says it will work with assessment bodies and other stakeholders to prevent election-related activities from disrupting examinations. The decision on releasing results is expected to be announced on 8 January 2027.
READ MORE: WCED urges matriculants to beat election queues with special votes
