Failing Mathematics or Physical Sciences is one of the biggest fears for matriculants — and a common question after results are released. The short answer is yes, it is possible to pass matric even if you fail Maths or Physical Sciences, but it depends on your overall results and the type of pass you achieve.
Here’s a clear breakdown of how it works in South Africa.
Understanding How Matric Passes Work
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) awards different pass levels based on your subject marks. You do not need to pass every subject to pass matric — but there are minimum requirements.
Can You Pass Matric If You Fail Maths?
✅ Yes — in certain cases
You can still pass matric if you fail Mathematics, provided that:
- You meet the minimum overall pass requirements
- You pass enough other subjects at the required levels
Important to Know:
- Mathematics is NOT compulsory for a matric pass
- Many learners take Mathematical Literacy instead
- Failing Maths may limit access to some careers, but it does not automatically mean you fail matric
Can You Pass Matric If You Fail Physical Sciences?
✅ Yes — Physical Sciences is NOT compulsory
Physical Sciences is not a compulsory subject for the National Senior Certificate. This means:
- You can still pass matric even if you fail Physical Sciences
- Your pass depends on performance in your other subjects
However, failing Physical Sciences may affect access to:
- Engineering
- Medicine
- Certain science and technology courses
Minimum Requirements to Pass Matric
To pass matric, learners generally need:
- At least 40% in Home Language
- At least 40% in two other subjects
- At least 30% in three additional subjects
- A total of six passed subjects
If you meet these requirements — even with a fail in Maths or Physical Sciences — you may still pass.
Types of Matric Passes (And What They Mean)
🎓 Bachelor’s Degree Pass
- Requires stronger marks
- Often needs Mathematics for science, engineering, and commerce degrees
- Failing Maths or Physical Sciences may prevent a Bachelor’s pass
🎓 Diploma Pass
- Mathematics not always required
- Maths Literacy is often accepted
- Failing Physical Sciences usually does not affect this pass
🎓 Higher Certificate Pass
- Lowest pass level
- Allows entry into higher certificate courses
- Maths is usually not required
What If You Don’t Qualify for the Pass You Want?
If your marks are too low:
- You may apply for a re-mark or re-check
- Consider a matric rewrite or upgrade
- Explore TVET colleges, learnerships, or skills programmes
Many learners improve their results and progress successfully later.
Career Options Without Maths or Physical Sciences
You can still pursue careers in:
- Business administration
- Office management
- Hospitality and tourism
- Public administration
- Education support roles
- Creative industries
Not all successful careers require Maths or Physical Sciences.
Final Thoughts
Failing Maths or Physical Sciences can feel devastating — but it does not automatically mean you’ve failed matric or your future. What matters most is your overall pass level and how you plan your next steps.
🎓 Your matric results are important, but they are not the end of the road. With the right guidance and persistence, there are many paths forward.