The 2025 NSC (National Senior Certificate) results are in and they’ve made history. On 12 January 2026, Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube proudly announced that the class of 2025 has achieved the highest ever national matric pass rate: an impressive 88%!
But that’s not all. One province in particular stole the spotlight.
KwaZulu-Natal Takes the Crown
For the first time in years, KwaZulu-Natal topped the national rankings with a record-breaking 90.6% pass rate, climbing from second place in 2024. This performance marks a major milestone for the province and reflects the hard work of learners, teachers, and communities across the region.
“This shows what’s possible when the entire system pulls together. From teachers to district officials to parents and students this is a win for KZN,” said one proud educator from Durban.
Free State Drops to Second
Last year’s top performer, the Free State, dropped to second place with an 89.33% pass rate still an excellent achievement, but just shy of its 2024 score of 91%. It’s clear that competition among provinces is tightening, which is a good sign for the overall education landscape.
Full Provincial Ranking – Matric 2025 Results
Here’s how all 9 provinces performed in 2025:
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KwaZulu-Natal – 90.6% (↑ from 2nd in 2024)
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Free State – 89.33% (↓ from 1st)
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Gauteng – 89.06%
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North West – 88.49%
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Western Cape – 88.2%
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Northern Cape – 87.79% (↑ from 9th!)
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Mpumalanga – 86.55%
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Limpopo – 86.15% (↓ from 6th)
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Eastern Cape – 84.17%
What This Means for the Class of 2025
This historic performance isn’t just about numbers. It reflects a major comeback from the post-pandemic challenges that once disrupted schooling across the country. It’s also a signal to universities, bursaries, and employers that South Africa’s youth are stepping up to the challenge.
Final Thoughts
To every learner, teacher, and parent well done. The 2025 results are a sign that when South Africans work together, we can make history.
🎓 Let’s keep the momentum going into 2026 and beyond.