2025 NSC October/November Exam Timetable: Key Dates and best Tips for Matric Learners

Check the official 2025 NSC October/November exam timetable. Plan your study, know your exam dates, and get tips to succeed in your final Matric exams.

2025 NSC October / November Exam Timetable: What Every Matric Learner Must Know

As Matric 2025 draws closer, learners across South Africa are preparing for their final examinations. The 2025 NSC October/November Exam Timetable are set to begin in October and run through November, and having a clear grasp of the timetable is essential for effective preparation.

In this article, you’ll find:

• A breakdown of the official timetable
• Key dates and subject groupings
• Tips on structuring your revision
• What to expect on exam days
• Useful links and resources

Official Timetable Overview

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has published the official 2025 NSC October/November Exam Timetable

• The exam period runs from Tuesday, 21 October 2025 to Thursday, 27 November 2025.
• There are six weeks of formal examinations, covering core subjects, electives, practicals, and scheduled rewrites.
• Morning exams generally begin at 09:00, with afternoon sessions at 14:00, unless otherwise indicated.

Useful Link: Department of Basic Education – NSC Exam Timetable 2025

2025 NSC October/November Exam Timetable by Week and Subjects

Here is a summarized version of key subject papers by week:

2025 NSC October/November Exam Timetable Week 1 (21–24 October 2025)

• 21 Oct: Computer Applications Technology P1 (Practical); language papers.
• 22 Oct: Information Technology P1 (Practical); additional language papers.
• 23 Oct: English Home Language (HL), First Additional Language (FAL), Second Additional Language (SAL) Paper 3 (essay).
• 24 Oct: Afrikaans HL/FAL/SAL Paper 3; other language papers.

Week 2 (27–31 October 2025)

• 27 Oct: African languages HL/FAL/SAL Paper 3; Accounting Paper 1.
• 28 Oct: Languages and electives (civil technology, etc.).
• 29 Oct: English HL/FAL/SAL Paper 1 (comprehension).
• 30 Oct: History P1; Engineering Graphics & Design P1.
• 31 Oct: Mathematics P1; Mathematical Literacy P1; Technical Mathematics P1; Religion Studies P1.

2025 NSC October/November Exam Timetable Week 3 (3–7 November 2025)

• 3 Nov: Mathematics P2; Technical Mathematics P2; Mathematical Literacy P2; Agricultural Sciences P1.
• 4 Nov: Indigenous languages HL/FAL/SAL Paper 1; Accounting P2.
• 5 Nov: Languages Paper 1; Mechanical Technology; Religion Studies P2.
• 6 Nov: Language Paper 2; Business Studies P1.
• 7 Nov: Physical Sciences P1 (Physics); Technical Sciences P1; History P2.

Week 4 (10–14 November 2025)

• 10 Nov: Physical Sciences (Chemistry) P2; Technical Sciences P2; Visual Arts P1; Nautical Science P1.
• 11 Nov: Afrikaans HL/FAL/SAL Paper 1; Business Studies P2.
• 12 Nov: Geography P1; Computer Applications Technology P2 (Theory); Nautical Science P2.
• 13 Nov: English HL/FAL/SAL Paper 2; Information Technology P2; Marine Sciences P1.
• 14 Nov: Life Sciences P1; Electrical Technology.

Week 5 (17–21 November 2025)

• 17 Nov: Life Sciences P2; Dramatic Arts.
• 18 Nov: Geography P2; Engineering Graphics & Design P2.
• 19 Nov: Economics P1; Tourism.
• 20 Nov: African languages HL/FAL/SAL Paper 2; Agricultural Sciences P2.
• 21 Nov: Afrikaans HL/FAL/SAL Paper 2; Economics P2.

Week 6 (24–27 November 2025)

• 24 Nov: Agricultural Technology; Design; Music Theory (P1).
• 25 Nov: Consumer Studies; Hospitality Studies; Dance P1.
• 26 Nov: Agricultural Management Practices; Marine Sciences P2; Music Comprehension (P2).
• 27 Nov: CAT P1 Practical Rewrite; IT P1 Practical Rewrite.

Additional Key Dates & Practical Assessments

• Life Orientation (LO CAT) main exam: 1 September 2025
• LO CAT Rewrite: 14 October 2025
• Performing Arts Practical Exams: 14 August – 24 October 2025
• Visual Arts & Design Practical Exams: 14 October – 24 October 2025
• Pledge Signing Day: 17 October 2025

Learners should always check with their schools or exam centres for the full official timetable, as minor adjustments may occur.

How to Use This Timetable Effectively

1. Map Your Subjects

List all your subjects and match them to their exam dates to visualize preparation needs and deadlines.

2. Create a Revision Schedule

• Start with subjects scheduled in the first week.
• Allocate extra revision for subjects with back-to-back exams.
• Alternate difficult and easier subjects in daily study sessions.

3. Use “Quiet Days”

Use breaks between exams to revise tough topics, practice past papers, or rest.

4. Practice Under Exam Conditions

Simulate real exam conditions (timed, distraction-free) for Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Technical subjects.

5. Prepare for Practicals

For subjects with practical components (Visual Arts, Performing Arts, CAT, IT), ensure your skills are well-practiced before exam day.

Exam Day Tips & Checklist

• Arrive early: At least 30 minutes before the exam begins.
• Bring your ID/admission letter to verify your identity.
• Stationery & Tools: Pens, pencils, eraser, ruler, calculator (if allowed).
• Follow instructions carefully: Allocate time per question and review answers.
• Stay calm: Take deep breaths and focus on one section at a time.

What to Do If the Timetable Changes

While the timetable is generally final, minor changes may occur due to logistics or emergencies.

• Confirm your exam schedule with your school.
• Monitor official DBE announcements regularly.
• Follow updates from your exam centre for any last-minute adjustments.

Why This 2025 NSC October/November Exam Timetable Matters

A clear understanding of the 2025 NSC October/November Exam Timetable timetable helps learners plan study schedules effectively, reduce stress, and perform at their best. These NSC exams are a pivotal step toward further education or entering the workforce, making preparation and time management crucial.

Useful Links

• Department of Basic Education (DBE) – Official Site: www.education.gov.za
• Past NSC Exam Papers and Memorandums: www.education.gov.za/Examinations
• Learnseta Exam Resources: www.learnseta.net
• QCTO (Quality Council for Trades and Occupations – for vocational learners): www.qcto.org.za

Disclaimer

This article is intended solely for informational purposes. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the dates and details provided in this article are based on the 2025 NSC October/November Exam Timetable published by the Department of Basic Education at the time of writing.

The DBE may amend dates, paper times, or subject arrangements without prior notice. Learners and parents should always verify the latest 2025 NSC October/November Exam Timetable directly with their school, exam centre, or via the DBE official website before making preparations or travel plans. Learnseta and the author are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or changes in the official examination schedule. 2025 NSC October/November Exam Timetable