Free State Department of Education: Examination Assistants (EA) 2026
The Free State Department of Education (FSDoE) is inviting qualifying full-time students and unemployed teacher graduates to apply for Examination Assistant (EA) positions for the 2026 marking sessions.
1. Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Employer | Free State Department of Education |
| Position | Examination Assistant (EA) |
| Marking Sessions | July and December 2026 |
| Closing Date | 29 May 2026 |
| Location | Free State (Various Districts and Marking Centres) |
| Working Hours | Typically 08:00 – 20:00 (Long hours required) |
2. Minimum Requirements
The department prioritizes youth and those in the education sector:
Target Group 1: Full-time education students (at least in their 3rd year or higher) at a recognized tertiary institution.
Target Group 2: Unemployed education graduates (proof of qualification must be attached).
Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
Skills: Excellent numerical skills (essential for checking mark totals).
Employment Status: You must be currently unemployed.
Those employed as Teacher Assistants or in other government roles are not eligible. Attributes: High level of accuracy, discipline, and the ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
3. Key Responsibilities
EAs are responsible for the "technical" side of marking, not the marking itself:
Script Control: Sorting, packing, and moving exam scripts within the marking center.
Mark Verification: Checking that every page of a script has been marked and that the totals on the cover page match the internal marks.
Data Capturing Support: Assisting with the administrative flow of scripts to and from the data capturing room.
General Admin: Any other duties assigned by the Marking Center Manager.
4. How to Apply
Applications for the Free State EA posts must be completed in duplicate (two copies).
Application Form: Obtain the specific FSDoE EA Application Form (usually available at District Offices or on the
FSDoE website Banking Forms: You must complete two separate bank forms (Z56) and have them stamped and verified by your bank.
Required Documents (Certified copies):
Certified copy of your ID (often 3 copies are requested).
Certified copy of your Matric Certificate.
Proof of Registration (latest letter from your university) OR your Degree/Diploma if you are a graduate.
A copy of your Tax Certificate (SARS).
Submission: Hand-deliver your application to:
Your nearest District Education Office.
Fidel Castro Building, Ground Floor, Bloemfontein.
N8 Gateway Office Park.
5. Important Advice for 2026
The "No Accommodation" Rule: Unlike some other provinces, the Free State usually does not provide transport or sleeping accommodation for EAs.
You must ensure you can get to and from the marking center daily. Numerical Accuracy: During the selection process, your Maths/Accounting marks from Matric or University are often looked at first. Highlight these if they are strong.
Strict Deadlines: The closing date is 29 May 2026.
Because of the high volume of applications, late submissions are immediately disqualified. Certification Validity: Ensure your documents are certified recently (usually not older than 3 to 6 months).
6. Why Apply?
Experience: It provides a unique look at the "engine room" of the South African education system.
Networking: For education students, this is a chance to interact with markers (experienced teachers) and department officials.
CV Building: Demonstrates that you can handle high-pressure environments and meticulous administrative tasks.
Tip: Since you are an engineering student based in Limpopo, please note that this specific post is for the Free State. However, Limpopo usually runs a very similar programme with a closing date around 05 May.
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