The matric is the most important exam a high school student in South Africa prepares for. This exam is the foundation that helps determine a student’s path to higher education. Students who pass the exam are awarded a matric certificate. To help safeguard the certificates, Umalusi, the quality assurance and accreditation body, continuously adds extra security measures. Since 2013, all matric certificates have included a watermark, an exploding number, and a unique certificate number, among other features.
This article will help students identify and locate their certificate number on the matric certificate and the steps to verify it.
Table of Contents
What is a Certificate Number?
The certificate number is a 12-digit unique number allotted to each student who passes the matric. Each certificate number on the matric certificate acts as an additional security feature, helping to safeguard the certificate in case of theft or loss. The certificate number also contains a unique barcode allocated to each student.
When students apply for a new certificate in case of loss or damage, the previous certificate is cancelled. This makes it impossible for anyone to impersonate and use the old certificate.
The certificate number is used to verify the applicant’s authenticity when they apply for higher education programmes and jobs. Universities and employers can contact Umalusi to check an applicant’s credentials if they are in doubt.
Learn how you can get your Matric Certificate Replacement
Where to Find the Certificate Number on a Matric Certificate?
The matric certificate is designed to include several components that enhance the security features and make it impossible to replicate. The certificate includes a watermark that is only visible when held against light. The identity and examination number on the matric certificate further make it secure.
The 12-digit certificate number on the matric certificate is in the lower right corner, just above the barcode. The certificate number and the barcode complement each other and can be used to verify the authenticity of the matric certificate.
The signature of the Chief Operating Officer of Umalusi is on the lower left side, opposite the certificate number. A unique exploding serial number (increases from small or large font size) is at the bottom right corner of the certificate.
How to Verify the Certificate Number?
When students receive their matric certificate, they should check to see if all the particulars are correct and printed clearly. The matric certificate has four different sets of numbers, so it is important to identify the certificate number on the matric certificate.
A white rectangle in the middle of the matric certificate lists the exam subjects, scores, and achievement levels. On the top left of his box is a clearly labelled identity number. The top right corner features the exam number on the matric certificate. Both of these are 13-digit numbers.
The certificate number on the matric certificate is a 12-digit number in the lower right corner directly above a barcode. Together, they help to serve as a unique student number on the matric certificate.
Sometimes, students wish to complete their higher education in a foreign institute and might need their certificate verified. Umalusi is responsible for verifying the certificate numbers of all matric certificates issued after September 1992. Students who require verification for World Education Services or foreign institutes should contact Umalusi directly for steps to take. They can be reached at:
- Call:Ā (012) 349 1510
- Email:Ā verification@umalusi.org.za
However, all other requests to verify the certificate number on the matric certificate need to be made through a verification agency. If students need any clarifications regarding the certificate number or the matric certificate, they can:
- Call:Ā (012) 349 1510
- Email:Ā verification@umalusi.org.za
- Check the Umalusi website
Know how to get back Lost Matric Certificate here!
What Should I Do If the Certificate Number Is Missing or Unclear?
Students can receive their matric certificate damaged or with missing or incorrect information. The certificate number on the matric certificate may also be missing or include a printing-related error. Since this number is required when employers and universities verify documents, students should take steps to have their certificate replaced as soon as possible.
A matric certificate replacement due to an administrative error is only considered when applied within a year of the original certificate’s issue. Students need to submit the following documents for a replacement:
- Certified identification documents with the original: The old and new ID copies need to be certified by an attorney or a Commissioner of Oaths.
- Affidavit: A detailed sworn statement that lists the reason for replacement as an error with the certificate number on the matric certificate. It should be done in the presence of a Commissioner of Oaths at any police station.
- Original National Senior Certificate: Students must return the original certificate they received before a new one with the correct details is issued.Ā
Students can apply for a matric certificate replacement in person at any Department of Basic Education (DBE) office in South Africa or the Provincial Education Department (PDE), irrespective of where they appeared for the exam. Additionally, individuals can download the application form and send it with all the required documents via post.
Students can also apply for the re-issue of their matric certificate online. Umalusi has been responsible for reissues since 1992. Alternatively, you can apply for the replacement at the South African e-Services Portal.
It is important to note that students who appeared for the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) or the South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute (SACAI) matric exam can only apply through them for a certificate replacement. This also applies when there is an administrative error on the certificate number on the matric certificate issued by Umalusi.
Students will be charged a small fee when applying for the replacement certificate. These fees are updated annually.
Importance of Safeguarding Your Matric Certificate
Since the matric certificate is an important document, students should ensure that they keep it safely. They can keep it in a locked drawer or safe where it will not be misused or damaged.
The certificate is required when students apply for higher education programmes or jobs in South Africa after completing grade 12. It is also needed when applying for a higher education programme in a foreign university.
Despite taking steps to keep the matric certificate safe, it is possible to damage or lose it. However, applying for a replacement matric certificate in South Africa is easy. Individuals need to arrange for the following documents in case of loss or damage:
- Affidavit: This legal document can be prepared in the presence of a Commissioner of Oaths at any police station in South Africa and should include the details of the loss or damage.
- Certified identification documents with the original: The identification documents must be certified by an attorney or a Commissioner of Oaths.Ā
- National Senior Certificate (in case of damage):Ā The original matric certificate in case of damage to the document.Ā
An application for replacement can be made at any DBE or PED office in person or online at Umalusi or South Africa e-Services Portal. However, those who appeared for the IEB or SACAI matric can only apply for replacement through the examination body. It takes 4 to 6 weeks from the time the application is submitted to receive a replacement.
Know what is Matric Statement of Result here!
Conclusion
The matric certificate is an important document, so students need to ensure that all the details are correct. They should also check to see that there are no issues in printing, such as blurred or faded figures. Each certificate features multiple security features that help safeguard it against misuse. Out of these, one of the most important is the certificate number on the matric certificate. This 12-digit unique number is used by employers and higher learning institutes when verifying candidate details with Umalusi. Students should take steps to keep their matric certificates secure.
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How to Check the Certificate Number on the Matric Certificate? – FAQs
Why is the certificate number on the matric certificate important?
The certificate number is a unique number used to verify student details when applying for higher education programmes. It can also be used by employers if one is entering the workforce after high school.
Where can I find my certificate number on the matric certificate?
The certificate number is in the matric certificate’s lower right corner, directly above the barcode.
What should I do if my certificate number is missing or unclear?
You should apply for a replacement certificate if your certificate number is missing or unclear. This process requires specific documents, including certified ID copies and an affidavit explaining the issue.
What documents are needed for a replacement certificate?
Youā€™ll need to provide certified identification documents, an affidavit detailing the reason for the change, and the original matric certificate (if applicable).
Where is the exam number on the matric certificate?
The exam number on the matric certificate is in the upper right corner, above the achievement level received for each subject. It is a 13-digit number that identifies the specific exam the student takes
