Hold onto your hats History Paper 2 is on Friday, November 7, 2025 at 14:00
Hey there, young matriculants! Preparing for your final exams can feel like a massive mountain to climb, but with the right guidance and a bit of a push, you will definitely conquer it. History is such an interesting subject, giving us insight into our past and shaping our future. To do well, you need to be organised and properly prepared. Let’s get you ready for that final sprint!
The big day: History P2 2025 exam date and time
Right, let’s mark this down in your diary, in your calendar, on your wall, everywhere! Your History Paper 2 matric exam for 2025 is scheduled for Friday, November 7, 2025. And please, make a note of the time as well: it kicks off at 14:00. That’s two in the afternoon, so make sure you’ve had a good, light lunch and are feeling sharp and ready to tackle those questions.
Getting ready for your history matric exam
Preparation is not just about cramming; it’s about understanding. For History, you need to know your facts, but more importantly, you need to understand the interpretations, the different perspectives, and the debates. Start your revision early, going through each section of the syllabus. Make summaries, create timelines, and use flashcards for key dates, figures, and events. Practice writing essays under timed conditions and go through as many past papers as you can find. This really helps you to get a feel for the types of questions they ask and how to structure your answers effectively. Don’t forget to practice source-based questions too, as they are a big part of Paper 2.
A good way to remind yourself of the date is to set multiple alarms on your phone, put sticky notes on your mirror, and tell your family to remind you. Make it impossible to forget!
Important information: Matric Grade 12 Timetable Download
To help you plan your entire exam period, and to double-check all your other exam dates, it’s super important to have the full timetable handy. You can download the official Matric Grade 12 Timetable right here to make sure you’re on top of everything:
Print it out, circle your History P2 date, and stick it up where you can see it every single day!
Exam day readiness: What to do and bring
On the day of the exam, try to arrive at the exam venue at least an hour before the start time. This gives you plenty of time to find your seating, calm your nerves, and make sure you have everything you need. No last-minute rushing, hey! Take a few deep breaths, maybe quickly read over some key points you’ve struggled with, but don’t try to cram new information. Just relax and trust in your preparation.
When you are in the exam hall, remember to stay calm. Read all instructions carefully before you even start writing. Manage your time wisely, allocating a certain amount of time to each section or question based on the marks allocated. Be respectful of your fellow candidates and the invigilators. No talking, no peeking, and no funny business. Focus on your own paper and do your best.
Things to bring to the history P2 exam
Here’s a list of things you absolutely must have with you for your History P2 exam. Make a little checklist and pack these the night before:
- Your official Identification Document (ID), or your birth certificate if you don’t have an ID yet. No ID, no exam, simple as that.
- Your Exam Admission Letter/Statement of Entry, which confirms you are registered for the exam.
- Two or three good quality black or blue pens. Make sure they are not gel pens, as sometimes they smudge. Have spares, just in case one runs out or decides to stop working halfway through an essay.
- A pencil and an eraser. You might need these for rough work, or to lightly mark on your question paper (never write answers in pencil though!).
- A ruler. Useful for underlining or drawing straight lines if you need to create any quick diagrams or tables in your planning.
- A small, clear bag to keep all your stationery in. This helps the invigilators see everything easily.
- A clear bottle of water. Staying hydrated is important for keeping your brain focused.
- Any prescribed medication you might need, ensuring the invigilators are aware if it needs to be taken during the exam.
Remember, for History P2, you won’t need a calculator or any advanced mathematical instruments, so leave those at home. Just your brain power and your stationery!
You’ve worked hard for this, now it’s time to shine. Go out there and make us proud!
