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By Charmaine Ndlela
As more than 900,000 full- and part-time candidates prepare to sit for the start of the 2025 final exams on Tuesday, educators and psychologists are urging learners to stay calm, plan ahead, and protect their mental health.
Experts say the key to coping with exam stress lies in balance, preparation, and self-care – including regular breaks, healthy sleep, and realistic study schedules. Avoiding last-minute cramming, focusing on what you know, and setting achievable daily goals can make a major difference in performance.
To help learners manage anxiety, the South African College of Applied Psychology (SACAP) in August launched its 42-minute Matric Study Hacks Webinar, an interactive session offering science-backed techniques and practical tools to improve focus and reduce panic. The initiative preceded the global commemoration of World Mental Health Day on 10 October under the theme Together for Mental Health.
SACAP said that coping with exam stress is really about balance, preparation, and self-care.
Youth mentor Kagiso Kgomane, founder of For The Youth By The Youth, encouraged the Class of 2025 to see exams as part of a larger journey.
“As you enter this final stretch of your high school journey, I want to remind you that this year is not just about exams – it’s about perseverance, self-belief, and laying the foundation for the future you want.
“We believe in the power of young people to change the world. Your voice, your choices, and your dreams matter. No matter where you come from, your future is still yours to shape.”
He said grade 12 pupils should ask for help when they need it and support each other. “Whether you pass with distinctions or face challenges along the way, what matters is that you keep moving forward. We believe in you, now it’s time for you to believe in yourself.”
High-school teacher Asemahle Cwayela advised learners to focus on what they understand rather than cramming or stressing about what they can’t remember.
She said that while some learners might struggle with coping mechanisms, it was important to remain calm and focused. She encouraged learners to approach exams with a goal in mind, to use the material provided by teachers, and to trust their preparation.
Cwayela also cautioned against sharing last-minute notes with classmates, saying this often creates panic and self-doubt instead of confidence.
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