South Africa’s Top Past Paper Resources
(Free + Paid) - Updated for 2025
If you’re a student in South Africa, past papers are your secret weapon for acing exams. Here’s why:
Understand the exam format: Know exactly what to expect on test day.
Practice under time pressure: Learn to manage your time like a pro.
Spot your weak areas: Fix mistakes before the real exam.
Build confidence: The more you practice, the calmer you’ll feel!
Pro Tip: Combine past papers with exam preparation materials like summaries and video lessons for maximum results!
1. Department of Basic Education (DBE)
Website: DBE Past Papers
Best For: Matric students (Grades 10–12) needing official government papers.
What’s Included:
Free DBE past papers (2008–2023).
40+ subjects in English and Afrikaans, including:
Languages: IsiZulu, Sesotho, SA Sign Language, and more.
Non-languages: Maths, Physics, Accounting, History.
No sign-up required.
Why We Recommend It:
100% free and official – straight from the government.
Largest collection of Matric-level papers.
2. TestPapers
Website: TestPapers.co.za
Best For: Students in Grades 1–12 wanting practice papers + CAPS summaries.
What’s Included:
Free DBE past papers for all grades (1–12).
Premium CAPS summaries (450+ topics, paid).
Answer keys and exam tips.
Why We Recommend It:
All-in-one hub for younger grades and Matric.
Summaries simplify complex topics like Maths and Science.
3. SA Papers
Website: SAPapers.co.za
Best For: IEB students (Grades 8–12) and DBE learners (Grades 1–12).
What’s Included:
Free IEB past papers (Grades 8–12).
Free DBE papers (Grades 1–12).
Answer sheets and study guides.
Why We Recommend It:
Dual system – perfect for IEB and DBE students.
Easy-to-navigate folders by grade, year, and subject.
4. AdvantageLearn
Website: AdvantageLearn Grade 12 Papers
Best For: Grade 12 students needing video lessons + IEB/DBE papers.
What’s Included:
Free IEB and DBE past papers (Matric only).
Video tutorials explaining tough questions.
Study guides and quizzes (some paid courses).
Why We Recommend It:
Visual learning – ideal for Maths and Science.
Tailored for both IEB and DBE exam boards.
Why Past Papers Are Essential for Exam Success?
If you’re a student in South Africa, past papers are your secret weapon for acing exams. Here’s why:
Understand the exam format: Know exactly what to expect on test day.
Practice under time pressure: Learn to manage your time like a pro.
Spot your weak areas: Fix mistakes before the real exam.
Build confidence: The more you practice, the calmer you’ll feel!
We test every resource so you don’t have to!
How to Use Past Papers Effectively
Start Early: Practice 1–2 papers weekly (not just before exams!).
Simulate Exam Conditions: Time yourself and avoid distractions.
Review Mistakes: Use answer sheets to fix errors.
Combine with Summaries: Tools like TestPapers’ CAPS guides boost understanding.
Why This Exam Resource Guide is Great
We update this post regularly with new resources, so bookmark it and check back!
Here’s what makes it unique:
Unbiased comparisons: No sponsored placements – just honest listings that are clearly laid out for you.
Detailed breakdowns: We test every site so you don’t have to.
Always look out for new and interesting resources: New resources added as they launch!
Final Tips for Exam Success
Save This Page: Share it with classmates and teachers.
Mix Free + Paid Tools: Use free past papers first, then invest in summaries if needed.
Ask for Help: Teachers and tutors are there to guide you!
