Discovering that your Matric results are missing or incomplete can be stressful—especially when university registrations, NSFAS applications, and job opportunities depend on them. The good news is that this situation is more common than you think and can usually be resolved if you act quickly and correctly.
This guide explains why Matric results may be missing, what steps to take immediately, and how to ensure your results are corrected as soon as possible.
Why Matric results may be missing or incomplete
Your Matric results may not appear or may show incomplete information due to several reasons, including:
- Outstanding administrative issues at the school or exam centre
- Incorrect ID number or examination number captured
- Missing subject marks
- Late submission of School-Based Assessment (SBA) marks
- Errors during data capturing or verification
- Technical delays during national result processing
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) processes millions of results each year, and occasional delays or errors can occur.
Step 1: Stay calm and don’t panic
If your results are missing on release day, it does not mean you have failed. Many results are released in phases as outstanding issues are resolved. Acting calmly and following the correct process is key.
Step 2: Check your details carefully
Before reporting the issue, verify that:
- Your ID number is correct
- Your examination number is correct
- Your full names and surname are spelled correctly
- All subjects you wrote appear on the system
Sometimes a small typo can prevent your results from displaying.
Step 3: Contact your school or examination centre immediately
Your first point of contact should always be:
- The school where you wrote Matric, or
- The examination centre (for private candidates)
Ask the school to:
- Check whether your marks were submitted correctly
- Confirm that all SBA and exam marks were uploaded
- Escalate the matter to the district if needed
Schools have direct communication channels with district and provincial offices.
Step 4: Contact your district or provincial education office
If the school cannot resolve the issue, contact your district or provincial Department of Education office.
Provide the following:
- Full name and surname
- ID number
- Examination number
- Subjects written
- School or exam centre name
They can investigate system errors, missing marks, or unresolved administrative issues.
Step 5: Understand “Outstanding” or “Pending” results
Some learners may see results marked as:
- Outstanding
- Incomplete
- Pending
This usually means:
- One or more subject marks are still being processed
- SBA marks were submitted late
- A verification process is underway
These results are usually finalised within days or weeks, depending on the issue.
Step 6: Collect your Statement of Results when available
Once the issue is resolved, collect your official Statement of Results from:
- Your school, or
- Your examination centre
This document is essential for:
- University and TVET college registration
- NSFAS and bursary applications
- Learnerships and employment
Step 7: What if the problem is not resolved?
If your results are still missing after following all steps:
- Request that your school or district formally escalates the matter
- Keep copies of all correspondence and reference numbers
- Visit the provincial education office in person, if necessary
Most unresolved cases are eventually corrected once the required documentation is verified.
Important deadlines to remember
- Corrections to personal details must be reported as soon as possible
- Requests for remarking or rechecking have strict deadlines
- Delays in reporting issues can affect registration and funding opportunities
Acting early protects your future options.
Key tips to avoid future issues
- Keep your exam number and ID details safe
- Always collect and check your Statement of Results
- Apply early for universities, NSFAS, and colleges
- Follow up regularly until the issue is fully resolved
Final reassurance
Missing or incomplete Matric results are administrative problems, not academic failures. Thousands of learners resolve these issues every year and continue successfully with their studies or careers.
Stay proactive, follow the correct channels, and don’t give up.