TVET November 2025 Exam Timetable — Key Dates and What to Expect

The November 2025 examination period is the most important exam cycle of the year for TVET students across South Africa. Whether you are writing NC(V) Level 2, 3, or 4 exams, or NATED N1 through N6 subjects, this guide covers everything you need to know — from how to access your personal timetable on the student portal, to what the exam rules are, to when to expect your results.

When Does the November 2025 Exam Period Run?

The November examination period for TVET colleges typically begins in late October and runs through to mid-to-late November 2025. The exact start and end date varies by subject and qualification level:

Note: All dates are indicative. Check your college portal or campus notice board for the exact schedule for each subject.

How to Access Your Personal Exam Timetable on the Portal

Your personal examination timetable — showing the exact dates, times, and venues for each of your registered subjects — is available through your college's official student portal. Here is how to find it:

1. 1
   Log in to your college's student portal

   Find your college on our Colleges page and click "Open Student Portal". Use Google Chrome for best results.

2. 2
   Navigate to Student Enquiry

   Once logged in, look for a section called "Student Enquiry" or "My Studies". This is where your exam and results information is stored.

3. 3
   Select Examination Timetable

   Choose the "Examination Timetable" option. Select the correct academic year (2025) and semester (Semester 2 for November exams).

4. 4
   Save or print your timetable

   Use your browser's print function (Ctrl+P → Save as PDF) to keep a copy on your phone. Do not rely on the portal being accessible on exam day.

Exam Rules and Regulations You Must Know

DHET and your college have strict regulations governing the examination process. Violations can result in disqualification. Here is what every student must know before entering an exam hall:

What You Must Bring

• Your student card — this is your primary form of identification in the exam hall. Without it, you may be refused entry.
• A valid South African ID or passport — accepted if you do not have your student card.
• Approved stationery — blue or black ballpoint pen, pencils, ruler, calculator (non-programmable, as specified by your subject).

What Is Strictly Prohibited

• Cellphones — phones must be switched off and left outside the exam hall or in a designated area. Being found with a phone in the exam hall, even switched off, can result in disqualification.
• Unauthorised notes or materials — any notes, whether on paper or written on your body, constitute cheating.
• Programmable calculators or smartwatches for subjects where they are not permitted.
• Talking to other students once the exam has started.

Arriving for Your Exam

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your exam starts. Latecomers are typically not allowed to enter after 30 minutes have elapsed from the official start time. Locate your exam venue from the college notice boards or portal — venues can change from one exam to the next.

When Will November 2025 Results Be Published?

Results for the November 2025 exams are published after marking and moderation are complete. The typical timeline:

All timelines are approximate and subject to change. Your college may publish results earlier or later depending on their internal processes.

What Happens After the November 2025 Exams?

If You Pass

If you pass all your subjects, you progress to the next level or complete your qualification. Ensure you log into your student portal to download your academic record as soon as results are published. If you have completed NC(V) Level 4 or NATED N6, contact your college's registry office to begin the certificate application process.

If You Fail One or More Subjects

You may be eligible to write a supplementary exam in January or February 2026 for the subjects you failed (if your mark was close to the 40% pass threshold). Your college will communicate who qualifies for supplementary exams — register at the admin office before the December holiday period as supplementary registration deadlines are typically in December.

Read our Supplementary Results 2026 guide for a full breakdown of what happens if you fail and what your options are.

NSFAS Considerations

If you receive NSFAS funding, the academic performance requirement means failing more than 50% of your registered subjects could affect your 2026 funding. Contact your college's Financial Aid Office as early as possible if you are concerned about this — do not wait for the new year.

Preparing for Your Exams — Practical Tips

With exams approaching, here are some practical steps to set yourself up for success:

• Download your timetable now — don't leave it until the day before. Know every date, time, and venue for each subject you are writing.
• Revise your SBA mark components — your school-based assessment tasks have already been submitted and make up a portion of your final mark. Understanding your SBA standing helps you know how much you need on the exam paper to reach 40%.
• Attend every exam — missing an exam without a legitimate medical reason results in a zero, with very limited appeal options.
• Use past papers — DHET publishes past exam papers. Ask your lecturer or check the DHET website for past papers in your subject to practise question formats.
• Get enough sleep — cramming the night before is less effective than a good night's rest and arriving alert.