7 Things Every Matric Learner Should Do Immediately After Getting Their Results

Getting your matric results is a big moment. For some learners, it brings excitement and relief. For others, it may bring disappointment, confusion, or even fear about what comes next. No matter what your results look like, it is important to remember this: your matric results do not define your future. What matters most is what you do next.

7 Things Every Matric Learner Should Do Immediately After Getting Their Results

Below are 7 important steps every matric learner should take immediately after receiving their results, whether you passed well, barely passed, or did not get the results you hoped for.

1. Take Time to Process Your Results

Before making any decisions, take a moment to breathe. It is normal to feel emotional on results day. If you passed, be proud of yourself. If you did not get the results you expected, allow yourself to feel disappointed — but do not panic.

Avoid comparing your results to others. Everyone’s journey is different, and many successful people did not have perfect matric results. Talk to someone you trust, such as a parent, teacher, or guardian, about how you feel.

2. Understand What Your Results Mean

Not all passes are the same. Make sure you understand which type of pass you received:

• Bachelor’s pass
• Diploma pass
• Higher Certificate pass
• NSC pass
• Or if you did not pass

Your statement of results will also show which subjects you passed or failed and your percentage for each. This information is very important for university, college, and bursary applications.

If you are unsure what your pass level allows you to study, seek guidance before applying.

3. What to Do If You Passed

If you passed matric, well done! Your next step is to confirm your study plans:

• Check the status of your university or college applications.
• Look out for acceptance offers via email, SMS, or student portals.
• Accept your offer before the deadline.

If you did not apply earlier or were not accepted, do not worry. Many TVET colleges and some universities open late applications after matric results are released.

Make sure you have certified copies of:

Your ID

Your matric results

Proof of residence (if required)

4. What to Do If You Didn’t Get the Results You Expected

If your results are lower than you hoped, this does not mean your future is over. You still have options, such as:

• Applying for courses with lower entry requirements
• Studying at a TVET college
• Doing a Higher Certificate
• Rewriting certain subjects
• Exploring skills-based or occupational programmes

Many learners succeed through alternative routes. Focus on what you qualify for now, not what you feel you missed.

5. Applying for a Remark or Recheck

If you believe your marks are not correct, you can apply for a remark or recheck of your exam scripts.

Important things to know:

• There is a deadline for remark applications, usually within a few weeks after results release.
• There is a fee per subject.
• Your mark may increase, stay the same, or decrease.

A remark is worth considering if you are close to the required mark for a pass or admission into a specific course.

6. Start Planning Your Career and Course Choices

Now is the time to think carefully about:

What you enjoy doing

What subjects you performed best in

Career paths linked to your results

Do not choose a course just because your friends are doing it or because it sounds popular. Research careers, institutions, and job opportunities.

You can speak to:

Career guidance counsellors

College advisors

University admissions offices

7. Look Into Funding and Bursary Opportunities

Studying further requires money, but there are many funding options available:

• NSFAS (for qualifying students)
• Government bursaries
• Private company bursaries
• Municipal and SETA bursaries

Some bursaries open after matric results are released, so do not stop checking. Prepare your documents early and apply as soon as applications open.

Even if you are unsure where you will study, applying for funding early gives you a better chance.

Takeaway

Matric results day can feel overwhelming, but it is only the beginning of your next chapter. Whether you passed with high marks or faced challenges, you still have choices and opportunities.

Take your time, ask for help when you need it, and focus on the next step — not the past. With the right plan and determination, you can still build a successful future.