Waiting for your Matric results can be stressful, and many learners prefer receiving their results privately and directly on their phones. If you wrote Matric in 2025, the good news is that you don’t need to stand in long queues or visit your school to see how you performed. The SMS service makes it simple, fast, and accessible from anywhere in South Africa.
This detailed guide explains everything you need to know about how to get your 2025 Matric results via SMS, how the system works, what it costs, and when the results will be released.
ALSO READ: How to Get Your 2025 Matric Results in South Africa
Why Use the SMS Method for Matric Results?
The SMS option is one of the most convenient ways to receive your results. Here’s why many learners choose it:
- Instant access – Results are delivered automatically once they are officially released.
- No internet needed – Perfect for learners without data or Wi-Fi.
- Private and convenient – You receive results directly on your phone, without going to school or reading newspapers.
- Simple registration – The process takes less than a minute.
- Accessible anywhere – Whether you’re at home, travelling, or working, your results come straight to you.
How To Get Your 2025 Matric Results Via SMS
To receive your Matric results via SMS, you need to register using your cellphone. Follow the steps below:
1. Register via SMS
You can sign up by sending:
Your 13-digit ID number + Your 13-digit Exam number
to 35658.
For example: 1234567890123 1234567890123
Important requirements:
- Both the ID number and Exam number must contain exactly 13 digits.
- Once-off registration fee: R3.00
- Standard SMS rates may apply depending on your network.
Once your registration is accepted, you will be added to the system and will automatically receive your subject-by-subject results when they go live.
2. Register Using the USSD Code
You can also register using the USSD option:
Dial: *120*35658#
Then follow the on-screen prompts to enter:
- Your ID number
- Your Exam number
After completing the steps, your registration will be confirmed.
When Will the 2025 Matric Results Be Released?
The Department of Basic Education has confirmed the release timeline for the 2025 Matric (NSC) results:
- Results Announcement by the Minister: 12 January 2026
- Learners can access their individual results from: 13 January 2026 at 06:00 AM
This applies to learners from:
- Public schools
- Independent schools writing the NSC
- Adult candidates writing the NSC examinations
The results are released only after:
- Scripts are marked
- Marks are captured
- Quality assurance is completed by Umalusi to ensure accuracy and fairness
This rigorous process helps guarantee that every learner receives their results correctly and reliably.
What Happens After You Register?
Once you have registered via SMS or USSD:
- You don’t need to check anything manually.
- You don’t need to send another message.
- You don’t need to pay again.
As soon as the Department releases the 2025 Matric results at 6 AM on 13 January 2026, the system will automatically send your results to your phone.
Your SMS will include:
- Your NSC subjects
- Your result for each subject
- Your achievement level
- Whether you passed
This makes it one of the easiest ways to receive your results.
Is the SMS Method Safe?
Yes.
The SMS and USSD services for Matric results are provided by authorised partners working with the Department of Basic Education. Your personal details are not shared with third parties, and the system is designed to be secure and confidential.
Tips Before Results Day
To avoid any issues on results day, make sure to:
- Register early so your details are already stored.
- Double-check that your ID and exam numbers are correct.
- Ensure your phone is switched on and has network coverage.
- Keep a small airtime balance in case network replies are needed.
- Stay calm—your results will come through automatically.
Conclusion
The SMS and USSD options are among the fastest and most convenient ways for learners to receive their 2025 Matric Results. By registering your details early, you ensure that your results are delivered directly to your phone the moment they are released.
To recap:
✔ SMS your ID Number + Exam Number to 35658
✔ Or dial *120*35658#
✔ Registration costs R3 once-off
✔ Your results will be sent automatically on 13 January 2026 at 06:00 AM