With the June examinations behind them, Grade 12 learners are entering one of the most important phases of their academic journey. Preliminary examinations are fast approaching, final examinations are on the horizon, and decisions about tertiary education can no longer be postponed.
As a result, the period following the mid-year examinations serves as a critical checkpoint. Beyond assessing their academic performance, learners should consider whether their current results place them in a position to qualify for their preferred qualifications and institutions in 2027.
According to Ravika Sookraj, Executive Director: Student Experience at Richfield, this is the stage at which learners should shift their focus from simply thinking about their future to actively preparing for it.
“By this point, learners should have a clearer understanding of their study interests and career aspirations, as well as the academic requirements needed to achieve them,” says Sookraj. “Their June examination results provide valuable insight into whether they are currently on track and where additional effort may be required before prelims and the final examinations.”
Four priorities for matric learners ahead of preliminary examinations
1.Finalise your study options
While some learners may still be exploring their options, matric is the time to begin narrowing study choices to a realistic shortlist of qualifications and institutions.
This process should be informed by personal interests, academic strengths, admission requirements and long-term career objectives. Learners should also ensure they have multiple suitable options available rather than relying on a single application outcome.
Developing a focused application strategy can reduce uncertainty and enable learners to make more informed decisions as they prepare for life after school.
2.Evaluate whether your current results meet admission requirements
One of the most valuable exercises learners can undertake is comparing their June examination results against the admission criteria of their preferred qualifications and institutions.
Learners who already meet the required standards should prioritise completing and submitting applications, while carefully managing closing dates, supporting documentation and any programme-specific requirements.
It is equally important to maintain regular communication with institutions by monitoring emails, application portals and correspondence for updates or requests for additional information.
For learners who have not yet achieved the required results, the focus should be on identifying areas for improvement and implementing a clear action plan ahead of prelims. This may include seeking additional academic support, refining study techniques, focusing on specific subjects or working closely with teachers to address performance gaps.
Alternative study pathways should also be explored, particularly where learners remain committed to a specific career direction but may not currently meet the requirements for their first-choice qualification.
“The importance of evaluating results now is that learners still have time to respond effectively,” says Sookraj. “Understanding exactly where the gaps exist allows them to approach the remainder of the year with greater focus and purpose.”
3.Prepare for the practical realities of tertiary education
Successfully gaining admission is only one aspect of the transition from school to higher education.
Learners and their families should begin addressing the practical and financial considerations associated with tertiary study. This includes researching tuition fees, accommodation costs, bursaries, scholarships, student loans and other funding opportunities.
Additional expenses such as transport, study devices, internet connectivity, textbooks and daily living costs should also form part of the planning process.
Early preparation can significantly reduce stress and uncertainty during the application, registration and enrolment period.
4. look beyond the qualification when choosing an institution
Selecting where to study is just as important as deciding what to study.
Learners should evaluate the broader student experience offered by prospective institutions, including academic support services, student wellbeing initiatives, access to industry exposure, opportunities for practical learning and graduate employability support.
The learning environment can play a significant role in academic success, personal development and future career readiness.
“Students should seek an institution that supports not only their academic success, but also their personal development and their transition into the workplace,” says Sookraj.
Focus on success beyond tatric
With preliminary examinations still ahead, learners have an opportunity to strengthen their academic performance while simultaneously putting the foundations of their tertiary plans in place.
June results should not be viewed merely as a reflection of past performance, but as a strategic indicator of future readiness. The months ahead provide an opportunity to refine goals, address academic challenges and ensure that applications, funding plans and study choices align with long-term aspirations.
“The remainder of the matric year is about far more than completing school,” concludes Sookraj. “It is about ensuring that learners are academically prepared, informed about their options and ready to take the next step with confidence.”
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