What Is The Most Failed Subject In School 2026
What Is The Most Failed Subject In School 2026
Recent results show that Mathematics is often the hardest subject for students, with the highest failure rates in matric exams. For example, in the previous years, only about 38% of students passed Mathematics, while a significant number didn’t meet the minimum pass mark. Physical Science is another subject where many learners struggle, with nearly a quarter of students failing. These subjects are challenging because they require strong problem-solving skills and a good understanding of concepts that build on each other over time. One of the biggest challenges students face is figuring out which subject is the toughest or most commonly failed in school.
Understanding this is important because it highlights where schools and education authorities need to focus their support to help students do better. This article will take a closer look at the most failed subject in South African schools and explore why it remains such a struggle for many learners. There are some reasons why students find Mathematics and Physical Science difficult. One major factor is the shortage of qualified teachers who can explain complex topics clearly. Without good guidance, students often feel lost and fall behind.
Language barriers also play a role, as many learners study in a language that isn’t their first, making it harder to understand tricky concepts. Schools and education departments are working hard to improve teacher training, offer extra help to students who are struggling, and adjust the curriculum to make learning easier. Knowing why Mathematics is the most failed subject helps everyone focus on finding better ways to support learners. With the right support and resources, more students can overcome these challenges and succeed in their studies in 2026 and beyond.
Read Also: What Subjects Are Easy To Pass Matric 2026
What Course Has The Highest Fail Rate As of 2026?
One of the reasons for this is that pupils think mathematics to be the subject in school that is the most difficult and has the highest percentage of matric failures. The following is a list of the subjects that students find the most difficult:
- mathematics
- Physical sciences and
- accounting
Are the other two technically “difficult” topics; both have significant matric failure rates.
What Subject Is Easy In 2026
- English A Language and
- Literature
English A Language and Literature SL stands out as being among the simplest of the subjects in the Group. It offers a balanced approach to linguistic analysis and literary analysis, receiving a mean grade of 5.27.
What You’ll Need to Pass High School
There are three degrees of passing, and to receive your high school diploma, you must pass with a Higher Certificate:
(1) Higher Certificate pass
This will allow you to study towards a Higher Certificate at a public TVET College or a Private College.
- Pass 6 of your 7 subjects
- Obtain at least 40% of your Home Language
- Obtain at least 40% for 2 other subjects (excluding Life Orientation)
- Obtain at least 30% for 3 other subjects.
(2) Diploma pass
This will allow you to study towards a Diploma at the University of Technology.
- Pass 6 of your 7 subjects
- Obtain at least 40% of your Home Language
- Obtain 40–49% (moderate achievement) in 4 other subjects (excluding Life Orientation)
- Obtain 30% in 3 other subjects.
(3) Bachelor’s pass (previously known as matric with exemption)
This will allow you to study towards a degree at University.
- Pass 6 of your 7 subjects
- Obtain at least 40% of your Home Language
- Obtain at least 50% in 4 subjects (excluding Life Orientation)
- Obtain at least 30% in 2 other subjects.
How to Pass Hard Subjects
Facing challenging subjects in Matric is a common experience, but it’s essential to adopt effective strategies to succeed:
- Early Preparation: Start your Matric year with a clear study plan. Begin studying early to avoid last-minute cramming.
- Effective Time Management: Allocate study time wisely, focusing more on subjects that you find challenging.
- Seek Help: Don’t hesitate to seek assistance from teachers, tutors, or classmates when you encounter difficulties.
- Practice Regularly: Practice is key in mastering complex subjects. Solve problems, practice equations, and revise regularly.
- Stay Organized: Maintain a well-organized study schedule and keep track of important dates, deadlines, and exams.
- Stay Motivated: Remember your long-term goals and stay motivated. A positive attitude can make a significant difference.
Why Are These Subjects the Most Failed?
Here are some of the reasons why these subjects are the most failed:
- Cumulative Design:
Subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Languages build on concepts learned in earlier grades. If students have weak foundations or gaps in understanding from previous years, it becomes increasingly difficult to keep up as the material becomes more complex. Missing key skills early on makes progressing through advanced topics challenging.
- High-Stakes Testing:
National exams such as the GCSE or HKDSE carry significant pressure because they assess a wide range of skills in a single sitting. This intense pressure often leads to anxiety and stress, which can negatively impact students’ performance and confidence during exams.
- Perceived Irrelevance:
Many students struggle to see how subjects like math or physics apply to real life or future careers. Without understanding the practical uses, motivation to engage and put in effort decreases, making it harder to succeed.
- Social and Emotional Factors:
Math anxiety and fear of failure are common, causing students to avoid or perform poorly in these subjects. Additionally, if teachers lack confidence in teaching difficult material or if there is a negative attitude among peers, these social pressures create an environment that makes learning even more difficult.
DHET Contact Details
Get in touch with the DHET with the information provided below:
Physical Address:
- 123 Fr ancis Baard Street
- Pretoria
- 0001
Website: www.dhet.gov.za
Call Centre Information
- 0800 87 2222
Email: callcentre@dhet.gov.za
- Private Bag X174
- Pretoria
- 0001
Tel: + 27 12 312 5911
Depending on each person’s talents and shortcomings, the hardest subject can differ from person to person. Even though some disciplines are frequently thought of as being more difficult, it’s imperative to approach each subject with tenacity and a well-thought-out study plan. When assistance is required, please ask. Stay updated with their official websites and announcements.
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