How to Apply for a Matric Certificate Replacement

Have you misplaced your matric certificate and need it replaced for a job or university application? Don’t worry, you’re definitely not alone. Many South Africans have found themselves in the same situation. Fortunately, applying for a matric certificate replacement is a straightforward process if you follow the right steps.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to apply for a matric certificate replacement—whether you’re doing it online or in person. We’ll also throw in a few helpful tips, links to key resources, and answers to common questions you might have.

Why Your Matric Certificate Matters

Before diving into the application process, let’s quickly talk about why your matric certificate is important.

Your National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Senior Certificate (SC) is the official proof that you completed high school in South Africa. Whether you’re applying to a university, a TVET college, or even a learnership or bursary like those we list on BursariesMzansi, having your certificate is often a mandatory requirement.

📌 Reasons You Might Need a Matric Certificate Replacement

There are several scenarios where you might need a new copy of your matric certificate:

It was lost, stolen, or damaged.
There was a printing error on the original certificate.
You’ve changed your personal details (like your surname after marriage).
You’ve legally corrected details such as your ID number or date of birth.

📝 Who Issues the Matric Certificate in South Africa?

Your certificate is issued by Umalusi, the Council for Quality Assurance in General and Further Education and Training. However, you do not apply to Umalusi directly. Instead, you apply through:

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) – for candidates who wrote matric after 1992.
The Provincial Education Departments (PEDs) – for walk-in services.
Online services like eGov, which is a government portal.
Post offices (in some provinces) that accept applications for replacements.

🛠️ How to Apply for a Matric Certificate Replacement (Step-by-Step)

Let’s break it down into two main methods: online and offline/in-person.

📲 Method 1: Apply Online via eGov

The easiest and fastest method is to use the government’s eServices portal.

👉 Apply online at https://www.eservices.gov.za

Steps:

Register or log in to your profile on the eServices portal.
Select “Replacement Certificate: Lost or Damaged”.
Complete the online form with your details.
Upload the following:
- A certified copy of your ID.
- An affidavit explaining the loss/damage.
- Proof of payment (R153 as of 2025).
Submit and wait for confirmation.
Your certificate will be ready within 6–8 weeks and can be posted or collected, depending on your selection.

🏢 Method 2: Apply In-Person at the Department of Education

If you’d rather do things the traditional way, you can apply in person at any Provincial Education Department (PED).

What You’ll Need:

Certified copy of your ID document
Affidavit stating what happened to your original certificate
Completed replacement application form (you can get this at the office)
Proof of payment of R153 (this might vary slightly by province)
Your original certificate (if you’re requesting a correction)

For a complete list of PED offices, visit the DBE Contact Page.

Important:

You don’t need to make an appointment—just bring your documents and queue. You will receive a statement of results immediately if needed, and your certificate will be available in 6–8 weeks.

How Much Does It Cost?

As of 2025, here’s what you’ll pay:

Replacement of a lost/damaged certificate: R153
Statement of results (optional): R58

Note: These fees are subject to change. Always check the official DBE website for the most current info.

How Long Does It Take?

Processing takes about 6 to 8 weeks—so it’s a good idea to apply early if you need it for bursary applications, college admissions, or job interviews.

If you need proof urgently, request a statement of results, which you can often get on the same day.

Applying for a Correction Instead of a Replacement?

If your certificate has a spelling error, incorrect ID number, or wrong exam results, then you should apply for a correction instead of a replacement.

The documents required are the same, but you’ll also need supporting documents to prove the error (like a birth certificate or original exam report).

Learn more about correcting a certificate on the Umalusi website.

Safety Tip: Keep a Digital Copy

Once you receive your replacement, be sure to scan and store a digital copy in your email, cloud storage (like Google Drive or Dropbox), or USB stick. You never know when you might need it again!

✅ Final Thoughts

Replacing your matric certificate might feel like a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you go the online or walk-in route, just follow the steps above and stay patient.

Having a valid matric certificate opens doors to bursaries, learnerships, and career opportunities—and we at BursariesMzansi want to make sure you’re ready for them!