High school graduates share opinions on the first part of the physical science exam

Students currently in the 9th grade will take five compulsory exams as part of the CBSE 10th-grade board examinations in 2028. They will also be offered an option with an additional vocational skills subject, which can help them pass the exam even if they struggle with Mathematics, Science, or Social Studies.

CBSE has clarified the examination structure in advance, presenting two options for vocational education. These options allow students to choose between a school-based assessment and a final examination leading to a nationally recognized skills certificate.

Nevertheless, students will study nine compulsory academic subjects, including a third foreign language, arts, physical education and well-being, as well as vocational education.

Graduates of Chatsworth School shared their impressions of the first part of the English language exam. Some students noted that the reading comprehension section was close to their experience, while others highlighted questions related to language and comics.

The question concerning sinful pleasures and temptations attracted the most attention from most students. Valencia Govender, a graduate of Brinhaven Secondary School in Montford, Chatsworth, called the exam 'pleasant and engaging.'

Govender reported that the comprehension section was simple and clear, and the topic of sinful pleasures allowed her to write extensively. She also mentioned that she liked the language section question testing editing skills. Planning for the future, she hopes to work in information technology or computer science, as she appreciates the opportunity to challenge herself.

Samekha Kathrayan rated the exam as 'good.' She emphasized that the comprehension and language sections were easy, despite concerns about the time required for reading comprehension. Kathrayan, who usually receives A or B grades, intends to obtain a teaching diploma as she has always been passionate about teaching and helps her younger sister Lailab with homework.

Minenkhle Langley preferred the language section, especially the comic-based questions. She admitted that she could not manage her time well in the comprehension section, and that her overall performance in English is a B grade, although she has high expectations for the subject. Among the career paths she is considering are nursing, social work, and journalism.

Samekha Sheikh considered the exam fair, noting that the comprehension section allowed her to self-reflect and was enjoyable. She mentioned that they had covered similar questions throughout the year. Sheikh expressed interest in working in the business sector due to better financial prospects, adding that her final year involves a huge academic load. The National Senior Certificate exams continue tomorrow with Geography.

Graduates of Pelican Park High School gave mixed reviews to the first math exam, calling it a challenging test. Some students felt relieved after completing the first test, while others have already started preparing for the second part.

On Friday, October 23, 2026, thousands of National Senior Certificate (NSC) candidates took the first math exam, the first numeracy exam, or the first technical math exam.

The math exam is considered one of the most crucial stages in the NSC schedule, as it is a gateway subject determining eligibility for university admission in STEM, medicine, finance, and engineering fields.

Seventeen-year-old Ntombizodwa Mdwayi shared that preparation for the exam took months, including late-night study sessions and practicing past papers. She noted that 'Part One covers algebra, functions, and calculus—this is where you need to solidify your fundamentals.' Mdwayi reported that her mind was preoccupied with formulas since Wednesday, but she believes she put in maximum effort and 'thinks she did everything possible; the exam wasn't too bad.'

She added that some questions required analytical thinking and precise problem-solving, but staying calm helped her manage the test.

Another student, Tadiwa Namo, shared a different experience, admitting that the exam seemed particularly difficult to her. Despite feeling well-prepared before the session began, complex multi-step questions and time constraints created pressure during the testing. Namo expressed hope and determination to focus efforts on preparing for the upcoming Part Two, noting that the high school learning process itself was enjoyable, and she looks forward to the future with optimism.

A third student, Clayton Rossow, struggled to describe the exam, characterizing it as neither too easy nor too difficult. He stated, 'I am glad that Part One is over,' and added that the stress preceding the exam began to dissipate after overcoming the first major hurdle. Rossow expressed hope for a good result in Part Two, reflecting the sentiment of many candidates who are now shifting their focus to the next critical component of the assessment.

The next exam, Mathematics Part 2, is scheduled for Monday, October 26. After completing Part One, students will concentrate on preparing for the next challenge.