The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has officially released the final National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination timetable for 2025. The final timetable, dated 25 April 2025, outlines when and how Grade 12 learners will write their exams between Monday, 20 October 2025 and Thursday, 27 November 2025.
First Exam Paper:
Tuesday, 21 October 2025 – Computer Applications Technology P1 (Practical)
Final Paper:
Thursday, 27 November 2025 – IT and CAT Practical Rewrites
Key Highlights from the 2025 NSC Final Exam Timetable
Exam Period Duration
- Start Date: 20 October 2025
- End Date: 27 November 2025
- The examination schedule spans six weeks, covering subjects from Languages and Sciences to Business, Arts, and Technical fields.
Core Subjects
- Mathematics P1 – Friday, 31 October 2025
- Mathematics P2 – Monday, 3 November 2025
- Physical Sciences P1 – Friday, 7 November 2025
- Life Sciences P1 – Friday, 14 November 2025
- Business Studies P1 – Thursday, 6 November 2025
- Geography P1 – Wednesday, 12 November 2025
- English Home Language P1 – Wednesday, 29 October 2025
Life Orientation
- Life Orientation (LO CAT):
- Monday, 1 September 2025 (main paper)
- Tuesday, 14 October 2025 (rewrite)
Practical Exams and Special Papers
- Performing Arts Practical Exams: 14 August to 24 October 2025
- Visual Arts & Design Practical Exams: 14 to 24 October 2025
- IT and CAT Practical Rewrites: 27 November 2025
Contact for Enquiries
For additional information regarding the timetable or examination procedures, contact:
Dr RR Poliah
Chief Directorate: National Assessment and Public Examinations
Tel: 012 357 3900
Prepare now and plan your revision schedule. The NSC Class of 2025 has all the tools to succeed.
Download the 2025 Final NSC Exam Timetable PDF
Click here to access it