Matric Certificate Replacement: How to Apply at Umalusi

Losing or damaging your Matric (National Senior Certificate) can delay job applications, further study, or official processes. 

In South Africa, Umalusi is the official quality assurance body that issues replacement certificates for lost or damaged certificates issued from 1992 onwards. 

You can apply online using Umalusi’s dedicated replacement certificate system. 

What Does Umalusi Replace and Who Is Eligible?

Umalusi handles replacement certificates for qualifications that it originally issued or quality assured since 1992. 

This includes the National Senior Certificate (matric), Senior Certificate, National Certificate Vocational (NCV) Levels 2-4, General Education and Training Certificate (GETC), and N3 Certificate. 

If your certificate was issued before November 1992, you must apply to the relevant Department of Education instead.

How Do I Start My Replacement Certificate Application?

To begin your application:

1. Visit the Umalusi replacement certificate website.
2. Create an online account using your personal details such as name, surname, ID number, date of birth, and contact information.
3. Once registered, log in and create a new replacement request for your Matric certificate.

This online process is the only official route to request a replacement certificate directly from Umalusi.

What Documents Do I Need to Upload?

You will need to prepare and upload the following:

1. A signed affidavit from a police station or Commissioner of Oaths explaining how the original certificate was lost, stolen, or damaged.
2. A certified copy of your South African ID (certified by a Commissioner of Oaths).

These documents help prove your identity and the reason for requesting a replacement certificate. 

Ensure the documents are clear before uploading them to avoid delays.

How Much Does a Replacement Certificate Cost?

As of the current online system rules:

1. R137 is payable if you choose to collect your replacement certificate from the Umalusi office in Pretoria.
2. R202 covers the certificate cost plus courier fees if you prefer it delivered to a physical address within South Africa.

These fees may vary slightly over time, so always verify the latest cost on the Umalusi portal before paying.

How Long Does the Process Take?

Umalusi aims to process applications efficiently:

1. If you choose to collect the certificate in person after approval, you may receive it within two working days.
2. If you opt for courier delivery, it may arrive within seven working days at your address.

Keep in mind that certificates will not be issued on the same day you apply, and processing times can sometimes take longer depending on verification and system workload.

How Do I Choose My Delivery Method?

When completing your application, you must select how you wish to receive your replacement certificate:

1. Collection at the Umalusi Pretoria Office: This option means you will pick up your certificate in person after the application is processed.
2. Courier delivery anywhere in South Africa: Umalusi will send the certificate to your address for an additional fee, included in the total cost.

Choose the option that best suits your convenience and budget.

What Should I Do If I Have Problems With My Application?

If you encounter issues while applying online, you can contact Umalusi for support:

• Email: Replacement.Support@umalusi.org.za
• Tel: +27 (12) 349 1510

If a certificate was issued before 1992, contact your Department of Education office for assistance instead. 

These official contacts can help with login issues, document uploads, or other application challenges.