Categories: Matric questions

Can I Pass Matric With 6 Subjects

Can I Pass Matric With 6 Subjects

Can I Pass Matric With 6 Subjects

There is a common belief that getting 30% in your subjects is enough to pass Matric, but this is not entirely true. While 30% may count as a pass in some subjects, it is not enough on its own to earn the National Senior Certificate (NSC). To officially pass Matric, you must meet specific subject requirements set by the Department of Basic Education. If you do not meet these, you will be considered to have failed and will need to rewrite the subjects to improve your results.
Most Matric learners take seven subjects, which include four compulsory and three elective subjects.

However, in certain cases, students may be allowed to take only six subjects. The good news is that it is possible to pass with six, as long as you meet the minimum requirements. It is also important to remember that you do not need 50% in all your subjects to pass. You can still pass with a combination of marks, as long as you meet the criteria for your specific pass level, whether it is a Higher Certificate, Diploma, or Bachelor’s Degree pass.

In this article, we take a closer look at what it means to pass Matric with six subjects, what the requirements are, and how this can affect your future study options. Understanding how the system works can help you make better choices and prepare for success.

Will Six Subjects be Enough to Pass My Matric?

Yes, it is possible to pass Matric with six subjects, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind. The standard Matric package includes seven subjects, but in certain cases, such as medical or academic reasons, learners may be allowed to take only six. To pass, you must achieve at least 40% in your Home Language, 40% in two other subjects, and at least 30% in the remaining three. If you meet these requirements, you can be awarded the National Senior Certificate.

However, taking only six subjects might limit your options when applying to universities or colleges, as most institutions require results for seven subjects. Before making any changes, it is a good idea to talk to your school or a career advisor. They can guide you and help you understand how taking six subjects could affect your future studies or career plans.

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How Many Subjects Must Be Passed to Earn a Matric Certificate?

To receive a National Senior Certificate (NSC), you must take at least seven subjects in your Matric year. Out of these seven, you need to pass a minimum of six to qualify for the certificate. These subjects are divided into two groups: compulsory subjects and electives. Compulsory subjects usually include your Home Language, First Additional Language, Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, and Life Orientation. The remaining three subjects are electives, which you choose based on your interests or career goals.

Passing at least six subjects is essential, but doing well in all seven improves your chances of qualifying for university or other higher education options. It also gives you a stronger academic record to support your plans.

How Are Final Matric Scores Calculated?

The grades you earn on your school-based assessments and final test are used to compute your traditional Matric final marks. 100% of the marks count towards your final grade. The final exam accounts for 75% of the grade, while school-based tests account for 25%.

What are The Four Required Subjects To Pass Matric?

To pass the Matric, you must take seven classes. While the other four are mandatory, three of these subjects are optional. Your necessary coursework must include the following subjects:

  • Home Language subject
  • Life Orientation
  • First Additional Language subject
  • Mathematical subject

How Are Matric Final Marks Calculated?

Matric final marks are calculated by combining your school-based assessment (SBA) results with your final exam scores. Your overall mark is made up of 100%, with 75% coming from the final exam and 25% from your school-based assessments. School-based assessments include tasks you complete throughout the year, such as:

  • Tests
  • Assignments
  • Oral presentations
  • June exams
  • Trial exams

These assessments play an important role because they contribute to your final mark and can help boost your overall results. To pass a subject in the final exam, you should aim for at least 50%. A mark of 60% or more is considered good, while 80% and above earns you a distinction. Strong marks in both your SBA and exams improve your chances of getting into university, especially for competitive courses. Working consistently throughout the year helps build a solid foundation for the final exams.

What Are the Requirements to Pass Matric?

To pass Matric in South Africa, there are four different pass levels you can achieve: a Bachelor’s Degree Pass, a Diploma Pass, a Higher Certificate Pass, and a National Senior Certificate Pass. Each pass level has its minimum requirements:

  • Bachelor’s Degree Pass:

You need at least 40% in your home language, 50% in four other subjects, and 30% in two additional subjects. This pass allows you to apply for university studies.

  • Diploma Pass:

You must achieve 40% in your home language, 40% in four other subjects, and 30% in two additional subjects. This pass allows entry into diploma courses at universities of technology and TVET colleges.

  • Higher Certificate Pass:

You need 40% in your home language, 40% in two other subjects, and 30% in the remaining four subjects. This pass grants access to higher certificate programs.

  • National Senior Certificate Pass:

You must get at least 40% in your home language, 30% in two other subjects, and 30% in three more subjects. You are allowed to fail one subject. This is the minimum requirement to receive your Matric certificate.

ALSO CHECK: Can You Pass Matric With 14 Points

What Are the Different Pass Levels for Matric?

In South Africa, Matric results are grouped into different pass levels. These levels help determine what study options are available to you after school. The higher your pass level, the more opportunities you have for further education. Here are the four main Matric pass levels:

Bachelor’s Degree Pass
| Can I Pass Matric With 6 Subjects

This is the highest level. To qualify, you need:

  • At least 40% in your Home Language
  • At least 50% in four other subjects
  • At least 30% the two remaining subjects

This pass allows you to apply for degree programmes at universities.

Diploma Pass


With this pass, you can apply for diploma courses at universities of technology or colleges. You need:

  • At least 40% in your Home Language
  • At least 40% in three other subjects
  • At least 30% in the remaining subjects

Higher Certificate Pass


This pass qualifies you for Higher Certificate programmes. You need:

  • At least 40% in your Home Language
  • At least 30% in two other subjects
  • At least 30% in three more subjects

NSC Pass (National Senior Certificate)


This is the basic Matric pass. You need:

  • At least 40% in your Home Language
  • At least 30% in two other subjects
  • A total of six subjects passed

What Happens If You Don’t Pass the Required Number of Subjects?

If you don’t meet the pass requirements for Matric, you still have options to improve your results and earn your certificate. Two common routes are supplementary exams and rewriting the Matric exam.

  • Supplementary Exams:

If you recently finished Matric but need better results, you can apply for supplementary exams. These exams let you improve specific subject marks and can be taken up to five years after finishing Matric. The Department of Basic Education handles these, and you can check their website for registration details.

  • Matric Rewrite:

If you are 21 or older, you can rewrite your Matric exams through the Senior Certificate (Amended) Exam. This gives you a chance to pass any subjects you failed before and earn your National Senior Certificate later.

Tips for Success in Your Matric Exams| Can I Pass Matric With 6 Subjects

To pass all your subjects, good study habits are key:

  • Make a study timetable to organise your time and track progress.
  • Start studying early to avoid cramming and stress.
  • Take regular breaks to keep your focus sharp.
  • Consider a tutor for personalised help.
  • Join study groups to share ideas and learn different views.
  • Do practice tests to spot weak areas and boost confidence.

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