Cabinet has wished the Class of 2026 well as Grade 12 learners enter the final stretch of preparations for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.
In a statement released by Cabinet, the 2026 October/November NSC examinations will officially begin on 13 October and conclude on 25 November.
During a post-Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said schools were focused on structured revision and providing additional academic support to ensure learners were adequately prepared for the examinations.
Cabinet also called on parents and guardians to monitor the progress of learners in their care and create a supportive environment where they can focus on their studies.
“Learners are urged to create a realistic study schedule and to seek guidance from teachers or peers when they are unsure about their schoolwork,” Ntshavheni said.
She also reminded learners that professional support is available to those who may feel overwhelmed during the examination period.
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) can be contacted 24 hours a day on 0800 12 13 14.
Meanwhile, Ntshavheni urged students who qualify for assistance from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to apply for funding.
The 2027 NSFAS application cycle is already open and will close on 18 November 2026.
Funding outcomes for successful applicants are expected to be communicated in December, ahead of registration for the 2027 academic year.
The funding is intended to enable eligible students to access and pursue higher education and training opportunities.
