What to Know About My PNG Exam Results Release Dates and 2026 Selection Lists PDF

The period from October 2025 to January 2026 is filled with excitement for students in Papua New Guinea as they await the release of the 2025 Exam Results and the 2026 Selection Lists to come out. So, when will the PNG Education Department release exam results and selection lists?

The dates are not included on the education calendar; however, we have followed the 'My PNG Exam Results Release Dates' over the past 10 years to share this information with you as you await the release of the exam results and selection lists. 

The 2026 Selection lists for Grade 12, 10, and 8 students in PNG will be released after the 2025 exam results are available to selection committees. This typically occurs between November 2025 and January 2026.

2025/2026 Important Dates & Expectations

PNG INSIGHT UPDATES: Here is an overview of important dates for examinations, results, and selections. The expected dates are in reverse order and based on the past dates since 2021.

IMPORTANT: These dates are based on past updates - provided here to give you an idea about what is likely to happen this year. The exact dates will be released by the Education Department. Follow PNG Insight on Google and stay updated.

• RELEASE OF Grade 11 SELECTIONS 2026 (PENDING)
• NDoE/MSD publishes Grade 10 national exam results: Late Nov - Early December 2025
• Grade 10 and 12 Exam Marks and Data Cleansing: Completed by late Nov 2025 in time for the release of 2025 exam results to students, selectors and stakeholders.
• Grade 8, 10 and 12 Exam marking: October  - Nov 2025 DONE

• Grade 10 National Examinations: October 2025  DONE
• Grade 12 National Examinations:  October 2025. DONE
• Grade 8 National Examinations: October 2025. DONE

For the latest updates on Grade 11 selections, visit the PNG Insight Education & Development website for the latest updates for this year. Here are the links:

• NSOE Selection Lists 2025
• Highlands Region
• Southern Region
• Momase Region
• New Guinea Islands Region

Alternative Pathways

However, it's important to note that some students may explore alternative options, such as enrolling in programs like the Flexible Open and Distance Education (FODE), or in some cases, returning to their hometowns to pursue other avenues. Each student's unique circumstances and aspirations play a role in determining the path they choose.

Overall, this period is marked by anticipation and optimism as students in Papua New Guinea strive to continue their educational journey and unlock new opportunities for personal and academic growth.

Join us on Twitter or YouTube for the latest updates.

Grade 10 National Exam Results and Selections

The Grade 10 national yearly exam results are usually released just before the Grade 11 Selection Conference in the first week of December.

The 2026 Selection lists for National High and Secondary Schools are likely to be published 2 weeks after the release of the results. That means that the selection committee will take a week to finalise the selection, and the education department will take another week to publish the list.

Here, we take a look at why the Education Department needs to set the publication dates for the Release of Exam Results and Grade 11 Selection Lists. Read about it here.

Grade 12 National Exam Results

The Education Department, through the MS, D, will release the 2025 Grade 12 exam results to the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (DHERST) around the second week of December.

The Education Department (MSD) conducts the exams, coordinates marking, compiles students' exam marks and sends them to DHERST.

DHERST then uses the marks to select students for higher institutions.

2026 Grade 12 Selections Date

The Grade 12 students can check their examination results on/around December via the Education Department's (NDoE/MSD) website called My PNG Exam Results. Last year, the results came out on the 8th of December - this will give you an idea about when the exam results will be released this year.

Note that DHERST does not process the marks. DHERST usually takes less than a week to process the selection listings for tertiary institutions in the country.

It works in collaboration with universities, colleges, and other tertiary institutions to do the selection. But, first, the institutions MUST tell DHERST their quota - how many students they will accept for the academic year 2026.

So, unless the institutions provide the quotas on time, DHERST will not release the listing.

It is important to note that the higher institutions NOT sending the quotas often resulted in delays.

2026 Grade 9 Selection List

The Grade 8 exam marking, results, and Grade 9 selection are the responsibility of the respective provinces. The Department of Education passed this responsibility to the provinces.

The education department will send the Grade 8 certificates to the schools/provinces before the end of December every year. However, many provinces have failed to issue Grade 8 certificates to students.

Read about this failure and how the Education authorities Do the Grade 9 Selections.

What do the 2026 Selections Mean?

For Grade 10 students, the 2026 selections signify a transition to Grade 11 or vocational centres, where they can further their academic pursuits or acquire practical skills. 

For Grade 12 students, it means striving for admission into tertiary institutions, paving the way for their higher education journey. 

Similarly, Grade 8 students eagerly anticipate moving up to Grade 9, marking a significant step in their educational progression.

When is the Grade 11 Selection list coming out?

Based on the dates above, we can infer that the Grade 11 selection lists will be released before mid-December 2025.

Bookmark this page or join PNG Insight on YouTube and stay tuned; we will bring you the latest updates as they happen.

More information on 2025 exam results and 2026 selections:

• Click here for the latest update on ''2025 Selections Dates''. 

• List of 2023 Top Performing Schools in PNG now available - click here. 

• Here is further information about the Grade 11 selection that you may find helpful. 

• Find out about how the Grade 11 Selection Committee does the selection in this article.

• Learn about PNG Insight's new maths exam resources website for Papua New Guinean students in Grades 12, 10, and 8.

• After all the exam processes are completed and results are released, here is what you expect to happen between now and January: get the details here.

2025 TESAS List for Continuing Students To Tertiary Institutions in Papua New Guinea

The Tertiary Education Study Assistance Scheme (TESAS) is a crucial scholarship program provided by the Government of Papua New Guinea (GoPNG) through the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (DHERST).

2025 TESAS list encompasses the comprehensive listings for new intakes and continuing students enrolled in all recognised Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), including universities and colleges. 

This article aims to provide essential information for continuing students and new applicants on the TESAS program for the academic year 2025.

Understanding TESAS

TESAS is designed to support the higher education aspirations of students in Papua New Guinea by providing financial assistance based on academic merit and financial need. 

Eligibility criteria include meeting specific academic performance benchmarks and demonstrating financial need.

2025 TESAS List for Continuing Students

The 2025 TESAS list will be officially announced by DHERST, featuring both new intakes and continuing students. It is essential for continuing students who do not find their names on the published list to contact DHERST to confirm their status for the academic year 2025. 

Additionally, students who were self-sponsored in the previous year and have been awarded a scholarship for the current year should check their nearest Air Niugini Office for their travel itinerary. 

If students are not listed on the travel plan, they should contact DHERST to provide the necessary travel information. Travel arrangements will adhere to the destinations provided by respective HEIs in the previous year.

Financial Arrangements and Support

To relieve the financial burden on parents regarding school fees and facilitate a seamless commencement of the 2025 academic year for HEIs, the GoPNG, through DHERST, has settled all outstanding 2024 TESAS arrears owed to all HEIs. 

Disbursements for TESAS payments for Semester 1, 2025, are scheduled to be processed soon after registration is completed and lists are compiled and submitted to DHERST. It is crucial to note that Semester 2, 2025 TESAS payments are contingent upon HEIs providing Semester 2 registration lists and the requisite acquittals for Semester 1, 2025.

Important Dates for 2025 TESAS List for Continuing Students

Here are some dates that you should take note when as a continuing student. 

• DHERST will launch the New Intakes Selection for 2025 on 16th December 2025.
• Publication of 2025 New Intakes TESAS Award Lists will follow 7 to 14 days after the launch.
• Continuing Students and New Intakes (both School Leavers & Non-school Leavers) TESAS List usually comes out in mid-January. For example, last year the TESAS List for Continuing Students came out on the 16th of January.

Here is the full list of dates and events relating to Exam Results and Selections for 2025 - click here to find out.

Common Issues and FAQs Relating to 2025 TESAS List for Continuing Students

How do I apply for TESAS as a continuing student?

Continuing students should follow the guidelines provided by DHERST and consult their respective HEIs for confirmation of their status. If your name does not appear on the TESAS list, contact your HEI immediately.

What should I do if I was self-sponsored last year?

If you were self-sponsored in the previous year and have been awarded a scholarship for 2025, check your nearest Air Niugini Office for your travel itinerary. Contact DHERST if you do not find your name on the travel plan to provide necessary travel information.

What if my TESAS payments are delayed?

Payments for TESAS are processed after registration and list submission. Ensure your HEI submits the necessary documents promptly. Semester 2 payments depend on the submission of registration lists and acquittals for Semester 1.

Contact DHERST

The TESAS program is a vital component in supporting students' higher education in Papua New Guinea. 

For further information, please contact DHERST at the provided telephone numbers or via email. For further inquiries, call: 3012076 or 3012058/3012048/3012070, or email at info@dherst.gov.pg.

ARTICLES & INFORMATION RELATING TO 2025 TESAS List for Continuing Students 

Follow the links in the updates to find out more.

• New Intakes Key Dates for 2024 and 2025 - click here
• When will DHERST formally publish the 2025 Grade 12 School Leavers selection List for HEIs?

• Here is a post about DHERST Selections that provides information for school leavers and Non-School Leavers. 

• For the status updates of PNG university acceptance lists, click here.

• Here is the exam result and selection information you may also want to know.

2024 NOAS Application Eligible Programs During the Grade Period for Grade 12 School Leavers and Non-School Leavers

The DHERST National Online Application System (NOAS) simplifies the Grade 12 School Leavers and Non-school Leavers application process, ensuring students apply for eligible programs during the Grace Period. 

This innovative system clearly highlights ineligible options, reducing the risk of mistakes and enabling students to make informed decisions. Also, it allows students to select up to five choices, increasing their chances of acceptance into their desired tertiary institutions. 

This streamlines the selection process and helps Grade 12 students make informed decisions during the Grace Period.

CLICK HERE to know the latest dates and DHERST TESAS LIST PDF publication date.

National Online Application  System (NOAS) 

The 2024 NOAS Application for Grade 12 School Leavers and Non-School Leavers provides a flexible and convenient approach. This new system offers more choices, allowing students to modify their selections as often as needed. 

Unlike the old system, which limited students to three choices with no option for changes, the updated NOAS system enables you to select up to five institutions. 

To make the most of this opportunity, research thoroughly and choose institutions that align with your goals. Regularly check the NOAS to see which institutions offer your desired courses. Seek advice from teachers, parents, guardians, and patrons to ensure your choices are well-informed and strategic. 

This approach enhances your chances of securing a spot in a tertiary institution and helps you make informed decisions about your future.

2024 Grace Period - Its Importance

The 2024 Grace Period, which commences on 2nd December 2024 and ends on 5th December 2024, is a critical window for Grade 12 students to refine their choices. During these four days, you have the opportunity to 'fine-tune' your selections, with DHERST providing insights on NOAS regarding your eligibility based on your examination results.

DHERST highlights the significance of the Grace Period as follows:

"This [Grace Period] is a crucial period where you will start making your choices based on your final grade 12 results. Ensure to access your account during the mentioned dates. If you see a red highlight in any of your five choices under 'My Choices', this means your final result has not met the minimum program requirement set by the institution. Therefore, you must change the red highlighted choice to a different program available in your list."

It is better to use the Grace Period to adjust your choices to more suitable ones. After the due date, DHERST does not permit any further changes. 

By mid-December, Grade 12 students will have received their exam results and be in a better position to adjust their selections in NOAS. 

Make sure to take full advantage of this period to ensure your choices are well-informed and aligned with your academic aspirations.

Launching of 2024 Selection for 2025 Academic Year

The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (DHERST) will officially launch the 2024 selection lists for universities and non-universities on 16th December 2024. Utilising the National Online Selections System (NOSS), the online selection process will be executed efficiently within just 35 seconds.

Here's what the higher education secretary has to say about this innovative national online selection system. Make sure to watch the video, and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to PNG Insight for insightful content on education and development in Papua New Guinea.

About the National Online Application System (NOAS LOGIN)

NOAS remains the property of the National Government of Papua New Guinea and is administered by the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology. 

NOAS facilitates national admissions and selections into higher education institutions in PNG. This portal facilitates Grade 12 school-leaver applications. In 2024, non-school leavers will also use the NOAS to apply to universities and colleges.

Non-school leaver applicants

Non-school leaver applicants must contact directly the institute of their choice and follow non-school leaver application requirements.

Contact DHERST

For further information, please contact the DHERST Support Service noassupport@dherst.gov.pg

Source: DHERST

References articles and Insights

Related articles to help you understand the process from application to selection and launching and publication of DHERST acceptance list for PNG Universities and colleges.

• Latest on Exam results & NOAS Acceptance Lists - click here
• Introduction of HELP student loan
• HELP Studentships: What Are the Benefits?
• TESAS and HELP APPLICATION INFO
• How to apply for HELP Application 
• Read this article for the launching of the 2025 DHERST acceptance list for more info.
• Check this space for any latest on the Grade 12 Grace Period and the launching of 2024 selection lists.
• Latest on the DHERST Students Loan Program - Click on the link to find out about the timeline and application eligibility criteria.

Grade 12 Selection List For 2025 PDF: DHERST HECAS STUDENTS ON GOVT SCHOLARSHIP

The PNG Universities DHERST Selection List for all universities and tertiary institutions will be made available online as a PDF once published by DHERST. However, the Grade 12 Selection List for 2025 for PNG tertiary institutions will not be immediately accessible following the release of the Grade 12 Online Results. DHERST requires a few days to finalize the online selections for each tertiary institution. 

The final DHERST list will be published online in PDF format. The Department of Higher Education has released the schedule. Click here to find out when the Grade 12 Selection List PDF will be available.

NDOE 2024 Grade 12 Exam Result vs DHERST NOAS 2025 Selection List

Grade 12 Exam Results Release Date: The National Department of Education (NDOE), through the Measurement Services Division (MSD), has not yet communicated the online release date for the Grade 12 students' exam results. Historically, these results are typically released in early to mid-December. By this time, all Grade 12 students in the country should have accessed their examination results and seen their selection status on the National Online Application Systems (NOAS).

DHERST NOAS 2025 Selection Launch: The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) has announced that the launch of the Grade 12 selection for 2025 will take place on December 18, 2024. Understandably, the exam results will be available before this launch date, allowing students to review their results and selection status.

Here is how the online results and selection work. 

Grade 12 Selection List For 2025 PDF - Universities

The Grade 12 Selection List For 2025 for tertiary institutions in PNG, usually, comes out during the last week of December or the first week of January of the new year as seen in the last two years.

However, there were administrative problems with the Grade 12 selections in 2020, 2021 and 2022 under the acting secretary for DHERST. The problems were fixed and the selection lists were updated and released to the public.

We hope the that Grade 12 Selection for 2025 will flow smoothly, like in 2023, according to the schedule released by DHERST.

Here is what DHERST said about the updated Grade 12 selections listing for tertiary institution which was retracted:

The Department of Higher Education Research Science & Technology (DHERST) wishes to advise students and higher education institutions (HEIs) that it has revised the previous TESAS awards for continuing students for new academic year. The award list published on the DHERST website on the 5th of January 2020 is retracted due to some technical problems beyond our control. This has been rectified and scholarships rewarded to all eligible students. (DHERST Press release | 19/01/2020)

When will Grade 12 Selection List For 2025 List be Published?

Here are the 2024 Selection for 2024 5Academic Year Key Dates

• NOAS Grace Period: Monday, 2 December - Thursday 5 December 2024
• Selection Process Launch: Thursday 16 December, 2025
• Admission Grade 12 Selection List For 2025 PDF: YET TO BE ANNOUNCED

Grade 12 Selection List For 2025 PDF - HEIs

LATEST ARTICLE: PNG Universities and Colleges 2025 Acceptance, TESAS, HELP Loan and Registration and Orientation - ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW.

We also provide some background information about the 6 PNG universities here. Find out about the selection lists for UPNG, UOG, UNRE, Unitech, DWU and PAU:

• UPNG: University of Papua New Guinea
• UOG: University of Goroka
• UNRE: University of Natural Resources and Environment
• Unitech: University of Technology
• DWU: Divine Word University and 
• PAU, Pacific Adventist University.
• WPU: Western Pacific University 

How to Confirm Grade 12 Students' Selection and TESAS Status

The Grade 12 selection is done online and is quick. The final list of admitted students for the 2025 academic year will be published online.

Applicants are advised to keep an eye on the DHERST website or social media pages for updates regarding the selection process.

Here is how to check the selection status (WITH VIDEO GUIDE). This article shows you how to use the Grade 12 student SLF number and search the downloaded PDF files, with ease :) So, check it out. 

PNG Insight will continue providing updates on the 2025 Grade 12 Selection List. For inquiries regarding the Grade 12 Selection List For 2025 PDF, please leave a comment below or refer to the latest update here.

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About PNG Insight

PNG Insight is an education blog. It aims to highlight the key developments in the education sector in Papua New Guinea. Started in 2014 on Google's blogger (now self-hosted on WordPress), PNG Insight strives to be a platform for critical thinking and discussions; and a source of information.

We ask that you join us on Facebook, Twitter or YouTube for up-to-date education info on tertiary institution selections in the country, as they happen. 

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DHERST Selection & TESAS Award List | PNG Universities

NOTE: This is an update that we brought to our readers last year - we will bring the same update on the 2025 Grade 12 selections list for universities and non-universities. Visit the links above for the latest information for this year.

• #5 The Grade 12 (NEW INTAKES) Selection List is now published by DHERST - See the 'stats that matter 
• #4 Notes on 2021 Continuing Students TESAS Awards List, why many students' names are not on the list published by DHERST.
• #3 For the status updates of PNG universities' acceptance list, click here.
• #2 DHERST has not released the 2021 School Leavers TESAS award list for HEIs. It is not clear why, but we believe the HEIs sent the Students' Acceptance Letters out already.
• #1 As predicted in an earlier video (at the end of this article), DHERST has announced that the Tertiary Selection List will be released on Friday the 8th of January.

DHERST Grade 12 Selection - Stats that Matter

Executive Summary: The data presented for the years 2019 to 2023 shows a 'minimal' growth in the number of Grade 12 students taking the national exams and aspiring to pursue higher education. 

The Grade 12 School Leavers ONLINE Selection started in 2018. It is the best thing that happens. The online selection helps DHERST, the government and stakeholders know exactly how many Grade 12 students are selected for universities and colleges. 

In a recent media statement, DHERST resorted to also bringing the NON-SCHOOL LEAVERS Selection ONLINE. Universities and colleges are not going to make the selections. So, what does that mean for you as a non-school leaver applicant? Find out here

In 2019, 27,143 students sat for the exams, and 9,374 were admitted to higher education institutions (HEIs). This number climbed to 30,711 and 7,000, respectively, in 2020, followed by 31,817 and 16,171, respectively, in 2021. 

The trend persisted in 2023, with a total of 31,252 students sitting for the exams. This highlights the rising demand for tertiary education in Papua New Guinea. However, the data also exposes an inadequacy of available spots in HEIs to cater to all eligible students. 

In 2021, 10,373 Grade 12 students were not selected for tertiary studies. This necessitates the government's expansion of HEI capacity or increased scholarship funding.

IMPORTANT NOTE FOR READERS: PNG Insight compiles that data year-on-year on this page to give readers a good idea about the number of grade 12 students in the country. We know that DHERST and the Department of Education do not have a better way to compile vital data and stat over the years. This data is important for planning as well as for academia.

Analyzing Grade 12 Trends: A Decade of Educational Shifts in Papua New Guinea

Introduction

In the ever-changing landscape of Papua New Guinea's education system, the transition of Grade 12 students to tertiary institutions has undergone significant transformations over the years. This article delves into the statistics of Grade 12 student intakes, focusing on the yearly increases and the implications for the country's academic planning. The data presented sheds light on the challenges and opportunities faced by students as they navigate from secondary to tertiary education.

2019 Grade 12 Selection

In 2019, a total of 27,143 students sat for the end-of-year exams, with 9,374 successfully matriculating into tertiary institutions. This marked the commencement of our exploration of the evolving landscape of Grade 12 education.

2020 Grade 12 Selection

The subsequent year, 2020, witnessed a rise in the number of students taking the exams, with 30,711 sitting for the assessments. 

Out of these, 7,000 gained admission to tertiary institutions. However, a staggering 23,000 Grade 12 students did not enter a tertiary institution, highlighting the challenges faced within the education system.

2021 Grade 12 Selection

The year 2021 saw a notable increase in the number of nominated students, with 31,817 students nominated to sit for the exams. Of these, 26,544 were certified, but only 16,171 could be accommodated in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). 

A significant number of 10,373 Grade 12 students were not selected for 2022 HEI studies, indicating a widening disparity between student demand and available slots.

2023 Grade 12 Selection

Fast forward to 2023, when a total of 31,252 students were nominated to sit the exams. The numbers continue to rise, emphasizing the escalating demand for tertiary education among Grade 12 students.

Conclusion

As we reflect upon the past years, the data compiled by PNG Insight reveals a consistent and substantial rise in the number of Grade 12 students, reflecting both commendable efforts to enhance educational opportunities and the challenges faced in accommodating this surge. 

These statistics serve as a crucial resource for planning and academic decision-making in Papua New Guinea. The annual statistics underscore the importance of addressing the increasing demand for tertiary education while ensuring that the system effectively supports and retains students. 

About PNG Insight

Since its inception in 2014, PNG Insight has been a valuable source of information and critical discussions regarding education in Papua New Guinea. This platform remains committed to fostering awareness and understanding of the evolving educational landscape in the country.

DHERST TESAS Award list for New Intakes (SL & NSL) and Continuing students for 2023 was released today - download the PDFs here 

2023 Grade 12 selection

• 31,252 students were nominated to sit the exams

2021 Grade 12 selection

• 31, 817 students were nominated to sit the exams; 
• 26,544 students were certified; 
• total HEI quota for 2021 is 16,171; 
• 10,373 Grade 12 students were NOT selected for 2022 HEI studies.

2020 Grade 12 selection

• 30,711 sat for exams and were certified;
• 7,000 entered a TI;
• 23,000 Gr 12 did NOT enter a TI.

2019 Grade 12 selection

• 9,374 entered TIs
• 27,143 who sat for the end-of-the-year exams.

LATEST ARTICLE: PNG Universities and Colleges 2022 Acceptance List Info, TESAS, HELP Loan and Registration and Orientation - ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW.

THE ORIGINAL DATA WE COMPILED SINCE 2018 CAN BE SEEN AFTER THE BREAK