How to Replace a Lost or Damaged Matric Certificate

Your National Senior Certificate (NSC) — your matric certificate — is issued by Umalusi, the council that certifies school qualifications in South Africa. If it is lost, stolen or damaged, the Department of Basic Education cannot simply print another one at a school. You must apply for a replacement certificate through the official process described below.

Before you start

  • You will need your ID document and, if possible, your examination number and the year you wrote matric. If you do not remember your exam number, your old school or the provincial education department can often help you trace it.
  • If the certificate was stolen, get a police affidavit (case number) — it is required and also protects you if someone misuses your certificate.
  • If you only need proof of results urgently (for a job or university application), ask about a confirmation letter of results, which is usually faster than a full replacement certificate.

Steps

  1. Complete the application form. Get the replacement-application form from your nearest provincial Department of Basic Education district office, or download it from the DBE or Umalusi website. Some provinces accept online applications through their e-services portals.
  2. Attach the required documents:
    • A certified copy of your ID
    • An affidavit stating what happened to the original certificate (lost, stolen or damaged)
    • Proof of payment of the replacement fee
    • If damaged: the remains of the original certificate, if you still have them
  3. Pay the replacement fee. Umalusi charges a fee for a replacement certificate (check the current amount on the Umalusi or DBE website — it changes periodically and is typically in the region of R150–R250). Keep the proof of payment.
  4. Submit the application. Hand it in at your provincial education department's district or head office, or submit through the channel your province specifies. The department forwards it to Umalusi, which issues the certificate.
  5. Wait for processing. Replacement certificates typically take four to eight weeks, sometimes longer during peak periods (January–March, when new matric results are being processed).
  6. Collect or receive your certificate. You will be notified when it is ready for collection, usually at the office where you applied. Bring your ID.

If your details changed

If your name or ID number has changed since you wrote matric (for example after marriage or a Home Affairs correction), you must first apply to Umalusi for a re-issue with amended details, supported by the relevant Home Affairs documents. This is a different application from a straight replacement — ask the district office which form applies.

Common problems

  • Applying at a school. Schools cannot issue replacements; they can only help you find your exam number.
  • No affidavit. Applications without an affidavit are returned.
  • Wrong fee or missing proof of payment. Confirm the current fee before paying; keep the receipt.
  • Expecting it in days. Plan around the four-to-eight-week window, and use a confirmation letter if you need proof sooner.
  • Paying agents who promise faster service. Only the DBE/Umalusi process produces a valid certificate. Third parties cannot speed it up.

Official sources