In South Africa, the loss or damage of a matric certificate can pose a significant setback in accessing opportunities such as higher education and certain job opportunities. However, there is a solution to this problem – applying for a replacement matric certificate. The process of applying for a lost matric certificate can appear daunting, but with the convenience of technology, candidates can now apply for a replacement certificate online. This article discusses the process one follows to apply for a lost matric certificate online.
Requirements for application
Before applying for a lost matric certificate online, it is necessary to have the following details:
- Full names - Both the names that are printed on your matric certificate and your current full names.
- ID number/ Passport number – It can be either one of these two identification documents, with the passport number being for candidates who are not South African citizens.
- Exam number - This is the number that is printed on the old matric certificate.
- Year of examination - the year in which you sat for the exams.
- A fee of R100 - to pay for the printing and processing of the new matric certificate. It is advisable to make payment using a credit card for quick payment and processing time.
Applying for a replacement certificate
To apply for a lost matric certificate online, one needs to follow the following steps:
- Visit the official South African Government website - www.gov.za.
- Click on the ‘Service’ tab located at the top of the homepage.
- Scroll down and click on the ‘Education and Training’ option.
- On the new page, click on the ‘Replace a lost, stolen or damaged matric certificate’ link.
Step 1: “Receive a form”
On the new page, click on the “Apply online” button that will lead to the “Sign up” page. Fill in your personal details, which include your ID number/Passport number and your Surname. Click on the “Register” button after you have filled out all the required information. You will then receive a password and username via the email you provided, confirming your registration.
Step 2: “Log in”
After receiving the confirmation mail, go back to the home page and click on the “sign-in” button located on the top right corner of the homepage. Fill in your username, a provided password, and the captcha code. Click on the “Sign in” button after filling out all the requisite information.
Step 3: “Fill out application form”
After logging in, click on the “Services” tab, followed by the “Replace a lost, stolen or damaged matric certificate” link. This will take you to the application form. Fill in all the required fields, including your exam number, year of examination, and your full names.
After double-checking your details, click on the “submit” button. Your payment portal will be activated, and you will need to pay the R100 fee to initiate the processing of your new certificate. You will receive a confirmation email notifying you of your payment and that your application is being processed.
In conclusion
Applying for a lost matric certificate online can appear challenging, but if you follow the steps outlined above, the process becomes seamless. Ensure you have all the required information, complete and submit the application form, and pay the required fee. Once you have completed these steps, you can sit back and await your new matric certificate.
