Past papers / Grade 12 / Life Sciences
CAPS Life Sciences Grade 12 Past Papers
Life Sciences (biology) spans cells, genetics, human physiology, plants, evolution and ecology across Papers 1 and 2. Diagrams and scientific wording matter - use memos to see how marks are awarded for labels, definitions and application questions.
Need help with Grade 12 Life Sciences?
Practise with past papers, then book a CAPS tutor for guided walkthroughs, exam technique, and a plan for the topics you keep losing marks on.
2026 exam dates
National Senior Certificate dates for Life Sciences from the Department of Basic Education timetable. Confirm your own centre, start time and permit with your school.
| Paper | Date | Start | Duration | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Fri 13 Nov 2026 | 09:00 | 2½ hours | 150 |
| Paper 2 | Mon 16 Nov 2026 | 09:00 | 2½ hours | 150 |
Source: DBE Oct/Nov 2026 NSC timetable
What each paper covers
Topic weightings summarised from the CAPS examination guidelines so you can prioritise revision. Exact questions change each year - use this as a map, not a prediction.
Paper 1 - 150 marks (2½ hours)
Paper 1 mixes life processes at molecular and organism level - DNA, meiosis, reproduction, genetics and related human physiology strands depending on the year. Label diagrams fully and use scientific terms from CAPS rather than everyday wording.
- DNA code, protein synthesis and meiosis40 marks
- Reproduction in vertebrates / human reproduction35 marks
- Genetics and inheritance40 marks
- Responding to the environment (nervous / human eye as examined)35 marks
Paper 2 - 150 marks (2½ hours)
Paper 2 typically covers evolution, diversity, and plant/animal life-process themes that complement Paper 1. Expect data-response and experimental design style questions - state the variable, control and reliability factors when asked.
- Evolution by natural selection and human evolution45 marks
- Diversity of life / diversity of plants and animals as examined35 marks
- Life processes supporting life (plants / photosynthesis / transport)40 marks
- Environmental studies and human impact30 marks
Papers and memos by year
2025 May/June
Life Sciences - 2025 May/June NSC/SC. Direct PDF links open the DBE file where available; otherwise the session page lists every subject pack.
2025 November
Life Sciences - 2025 November NSC. Direct PDF links open the DBE file where available; otherwise the session page lists every subject pack.
2024 May/June
Life Sciences - 2024 May/June NSC/SC. Direct PDF links open the DBE file where available; otherwise the session page lists every subject pack.
2024 November
Life Sciences - 2024 November NSC. Direct PDF links open the DBE file where available; otherwise the session page lists every subject pack.
2023 May/June
Life Sciences - 2023 May/June NSC/SC. Direct PDF links open the DBE file where available; otherwise the session page lists every subject pack.
2023 November
Life Sciences - 2023 November NSC. Direct PDF links open the DBE file where available; otherwise the session page lists every subject pack.
2022 May/June
Life Sciences - 2022 May/June NSC/SC. Direct PDF links open the DBE file where available; otherwise the session page lists every subject pack.
2022 November
Life Sciences - 2022 November NSC. Direct PDF links open the DBE file where available; otherwise the session page lists every subject pack.
2021 May/June
Life Sciences - 2021 May/June NSC/SC. Direct PDF links open the DBE file where available; otherwise the session page lists every subject pack.
2021 November
Life Sciences - 2021 November NSC. Direct PDF links open the DBE file where available; otherwise the session page lists every subject pack.
2020 November
Life Sciences - 2020 November NSC. Direct PDF links open the DBE file where available; otherwise the session page lists every subject pack.
2019 May/June
Life Sciences - 2019 May/June NSC. Direct PDF links open the DBE file where available; otherwise the session page lists every subject pack.
2019 November
Life Sciences - 2019 November NSC. Direct PDF links open the DBE file where available; otherwise the session page lists every subject pack.
2018 Supplementary
Life Sciences - 2018 Supplementary (Feb/March). Direct PDF links open the DBE file where available; otherwise the session page lists every subject pack.
- Paper 1Question paper (DBE session)Memo (DBE session)
- Paper 2Question paper (DBE session)Memo (DBE session)
Open full 2018 Supplementary (Feb/March) pack on education.gov.za
Need help with Grade 12 Life Sciences?
Practise with past papers, then book a CAPS tutor for guided walkthroughs, exam technique, and a plan for the topics you keep losing marks on.