Failing matric can feel like the end of the world. For many learners in South Africa, matric results day brings fear, disappointment, and uncertainty — especially if the results are not what you hoped for.
But here’s the truth upfront:
👉 Failing matric does NOT mean your life is over.
👉 You still have MANY education, skills, and career options in South Africa in 2026.
Every year, thousands of South Africans fail matric and still go on to build successful careers, businesses, and stable lives. What matters is what you do next.
This guide explains exactly what happens if you fail matric, the different types of matric failure, and all the options available to you in 2026.
First Things First: What Does “Failing Matric” Actually Mean?
Not all matric failures are the same. Understanding your results is very important.
1️⃣ Failed One or Two Subjects
You may qualify for:
- Supplementary exams
- Matric rewrite or upgrade
This is the easiest situation to fix.
2️⃣ Did Not Meet Bachelor, Diploma, or Higher Certificate Requirements
You may still:
- Study at TVET colleges
- Enrol in higher certificate courses
- Do NQF Level programmes
This is very common and not a dead end.
3️⃣ Completely Failed Matric
Even if you failed multiple subjects, you can still:
- Rewrite matric
- Study without matric
- Do skills programmes
- Apply for learnerships
❗ There is always a second chance.
Option 1: Rewrite Matric (Supplementary & Upgrading)
Supplementary Exams
You may qualify for supplementary exams if:
- You failed a small number of subjects
- You were absent for valid reasons
- Your marks were close to passing
Supplementary exams are usually written early in the following year.
Matric Rewrite or Upgrade
If you want to improve marks or pass subjects again, you can:
- Rewrite selected subjects
- Rewrite full matric
- Register at adult learning centres or colleges
📌 This option is best if you want to:
- Qualify for university
- Improve career opportunities
- Fix specific subjects like Maths or Science
Option 2: TVET Colleges (One of the BEST Options)
TVET colleges are not universities, but they are highly respected and practical.
Why TVET colleges are ideal after failing matric:
- Accept students with low marks or failed matric
- Focus on practical, job-ready skills
- Lower fees than universities
- NSFAS funding available
- Walk-in and late applications allowed
Popular TVET fields:
- Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil)
- Business studies
- Hospitality & Tourism
- IT & Computer studies
- Trades (plumbing, welding, fitting)
📌 Many students who failed matric succeed faster at TVET colleges than at universities.
Option 3: Courses You Can Study Without a Matric Certificate
You do not need matric for everything.
Courses that often don’t require matric:
- Short skills courses
- NQF Level 2–4 programmes
- Trade certificates
- Online certificates
Skills in high demand in South Africa:
- Electrical work
- Plumbing
- Construction
- Computer skills
- Digital marketing
- Entrepreneurship
Skills-based careers are growing rapidly — and many employers value ability over certificates.
Option 4: Learnerships (Very Important Option)
Learnerships are one of the best pathways for learners who failed matric.
What is a learnership?
- Work + study programme
- Monthly stipend
- Nationally recognised qualification
- Some accept applicants with or without matric
Learnership fields include:
- Business administration
- Customer service & call centres
- IT support
- Retail & logistics
- Hospitality
📌 Learnerships allow you to earn while you learn, gain experience, and build a CV.
GoIntern.co.za regularly posts open learnerships across South Africa.
Option 5: Internships & Entry-Level Jobs
If you failed matric, you can still:
- Apply for internships
- Apply for entry-level jobs
- Gain experience while studying part-time
Jobs that often accept no matric or low marks:
- Retail assistant
- Call centre agent
- General worker
- Cleaner
- Warehouse assistant
- Security
💡 Many people start working, then study later once they are financially stable.
Option 6: Adult Education & ABET Centres
Adult education centres allow learners to:
- Rewrite matric subjects
- Complete matric over time
- Study part-time or full-time
This is a good option if:
- You are older
- You want flexible study hours
- You need time to work and study
Option 7: Short Courses & Online Learning
Short courses can help you:
- Gain practical skills quickly
- Improve employability
- Build confidence
Popular short course areas:
- Computer literacy
- Graphic design
- Coding basics
- Digital marketing
- Small business management
Some courses can be completed in weeks or months, not years.
Option 8: Gap Year (Only If Used Wisely)
A gap year is NOT wasting time — if you use it correctly.
A productive gap year includes:
- Rewriting matric
- Doing skills courses
- Applying for learnerships
- Volunteering or internships
- Learning a trade
❌ Doing nothing for a year is not a gap year — it’s a setback.
Option 9: What If You Didn’t Apply Anywhere?
If you failed matric and didn’t apply to any institution:
Don’t panic. You can still:
- Apply to TVET colleges late
- Apply for learnerships throughout the year
- Enrol in private colleges
- Start skills training immediately
📌 Many opportunities open after matric results are released.
What Parents Should Know
If your child failed matric:
- Do not shame or compare them
- Help them explore alternatives
- Focus on skills, not just certificates
- Encourage action, not fear
Support makes a huge difference.
Common Myths About Failing Matric
❌ “I will never succeed”
❌ “University is the only way”
❌ “My life is ruined”
✅ Many successful people failed matric
✅ Skills can be more valuable than degrees
✅ Second chances are normal
Your Simple Action Plan for 2026
Follow this step-by-step plan:
- Understand your results clearly
- Decide: rewrite OR alternative pathway
- Apply to TVET colleges
- Apply for learnerships weekly
- Learn a skill while waiting
- Stay active and consistent
Progress beats perfection.
Final Words: Failing Matric Is NOT the End
Failing matric is a setback — not a life sentence.
South Africa offers:
- Multiple second chances
- Skills-based careers
- Work-and-study opportunities
What matters most is taking action now.
🔗 GoIntern.co.za Can Help You With:
- Learnerships & internships
- TVET college guidance
- Career advice for matriculants
- Skills & job opportunities
👉 Visit GoIntern.co.za regularly and don’t stop applying.
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