Behind the scenes, the journey from recruitment to releasing results involves a series of carefully sequenced steps. Each PED issues official communication that outlines the policy prescripts, as well as requirements for appointment to the various portfolios to become a marking official to which potential markers respond by either submitting a manual or online application. At a school level, a selection and approving committee is constituted to confirm the eligibility of each applicant from the school. The principal provides oversight and signs and recommends all those deemed eligible in the school. District offices are responsible for further verification of documentation and compiling composite lists and approvals for each applicant. The data generated at a district level is consolidated per subject paper and prepared for further scrutiny and checks by PEDs.

Once all databases are collated and compiled, a provincial selection and recruitment committee is constituted per subject for further recommendations and approvals. After their appointment and prior to the commencement of marking, all markers undergo targeted training, participate in detailed marking guideline discussions, and receive hands-on practice to ensure consistency in applying the marking standards. Once physical marking concludes, the process moves into capturing marks, conducting quality assurance checks, and completing national standardisation. The schedule remains tight but achievable. Marking wraps up on 13 December 2025, followed by verification, approval, and national standardisation.

With detailed planning, rigorous recruitment, and comprehensive moderation systems in place, the DBE is well positioned to deliver a credible, transparent, and efficient NSC marking process for 2025. The scale of the operation highlights the country’s commitment to maintaining the integrity and quality of its national examinations.