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100+ Free MATSEC SEC Hairdressing and Beauty Practice Questions

Prepare for the Malta Secondary Education Certificate (SEC) Hairdressing and Beauty — SEC 43 (2026) exam with instant access — no signup required.

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2026 Statistics

Key Facts: MATSEC SEC Hairdressing and Beauty Exam

SEC 43

Official MATSEC subject code

MATSEC 2026 syllabi catalogue

30% + 70%

Typical Paper I/SBA + controlled assessment weighting for school candidates

SEC Regulations / subject syllabus

Levels 1–3

Overall SEC attainment levels reported

SEC Regulations 2025

Grades 1–8

Controlled paper grade scale where used (1 highest)

SEC Regulations 2025

EUR 35

Late registration fee per subject (from 2026 sessions fee schedule)

MATSEC Examination Fees document

Unit controlled assessments as scheduled

Typical controlled written duration (subject-specific; see syllabus)

SEC 43 2026 scheme of assessment

100

Free practice MCQs on this page (study adaptation)

OpenExamPrep

MATSEC SEC Hairdressing and Beauty (SEC 43) is a Malta MATSEC Secondary Education Certificate vocational subject under the 2026 syllabus, assessed through three units rather than a tiered written paper, with overall Levels 1-3 reported. The SEC 43 2026 syllabus states that this subject will no longer be offered for certification after 2026, and SEC 43 does not appear in the published 2027 or 2028 SEC syllabus lists. The 100 questions on this page are an English-language MCQ study adaptation of the official syllabus, not an official MATSEC paper simulation.

Sample MATSEC SEC Hairdressing and Beauty Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your MATSEC SEC Hairdressing and Beauty exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1Which form of communication includes facial expressions, eye contact, gestures and posture?
A.Non-verbal communication
B.Verbal communication
C.Written communication
D.Sign language only
Explanation: Non-verbal communication covers facial expressions, eye contact, gestures, touch, posture, proximity, tone of voice and speech pace. Verbal communication is spoken; written communication uses text; sign language is an alternative form.
2What is a key responsibility of a salon receptionist when dealing with appointments?
A.Ignoring stock levels until the end of the month
B.Accurately identifying client requirements and scheduling appointments
C.Refusing all telephone enquiries
D.Leaving the reception area untidy to save time
Explanation: Receptionist duties include maintaining the reception area, dealing with appointments promptly and politely, accurately identifying client requirements, confirming appointment details, and keeping stock up to date.
3Why is appropriate personal presentation important when working with clients in a salon?
A.It has no effect on client confidence
B.It replaces the need for hygiene
C.It helps look professional and give a good impression
D.It allows jewellery to be worn without restriction
Explanation: Proper personal presentation helps the professional feel pride in the job, look professional and give a good impression. Syllabus examples include well-groomed hair, short clean nails, personal hygiene, fresh breath and a clean uniform.
4Which data protection practice is expected when keeping client records in a salon?
A.Sharing records freely with third parties for marketing
B.Leaving paper cards on the open reception desk overnight
C.Keeping outdated client data indefinitely after they leave
D.Keeping records safe and secure and storing only relevant information with client permission
Explanation: Key Data Protection Act aspects in the syllabus include keeping records safe and secure, not disseminating data to third parties, obtaining permission for storage, keeping only relevant information and updating it, and deleting information when clients stop using services.
5What is a possible consequence of a data protection breach in a salon?
A.Loss of client trust, damage to reputation, and possible legal penalties
B.Improved client trust
C.Higher stock levels
D.Faster appointment booking only
Explanation: Consequences of a data protection breach include lack of trust from clients, tarnishing of the salon’s reputation, and possible criminal offence with fines and/or prison terms.
6During client communication at reception, which practice supports professionalism?
A.Using only closed questions that allow yes/no answers
B.Active listening, open-ended questions and formal addressing of the client
C.Standing with poor posture and avoiding eye contact
D.Over-familiar touch and slang with every client
Explanation: Professional communication includes posture, proximity, eye contact, appropriate gestures and facial expressions, no over-familiarity, open-ended questions, active listening, allowing the client to respond, and formal addressing.
7Which factor should be considered during a detailed client consultation before a hair or beauty service?
A.Only the price of the most expensive package
B.Whether the receptionist likes the client’s outfit
C.Client requirements and concerns, adverse conditions, face shape, growth patterns and lifestyle
D.The weather forecast only
Explanation: Important consultation factors include identifying client requirements and concerns, adverse or incompatible conditions from previous services/products, head/face shape, hair growth patterns and lifestyle.
8Which of the following is listed in the syllabus as a limiting factor that may affect choice of service?
A.Client’s favourite song
B.The colour of the salon walls
C.The brand of the cash register
D.Time, finances, hair length, and hair and skin condition
Explanation: Limiting factors include time, finances, hair length, and hair and skin condition. Contraindications (e.g. disease, incompatibility) differ from practical limiting factors.
9Which tests are performed before a shampoo service according to the SEC 43 content?
A.Porosity, elasticity, visual scalp check for abrasions, infestations and allergies
B.Only a patch test for makeup products
C.Blood pressure and body temperature only
D.Only a nail shape assessment
Explanation: Before shampoo, tests include porosity, elasticity, and visual checking of the scalp for abrasions, infestations and allergies. Facial services use different tests such as skin type, elasticity, muscle tone, moisture content and sensitivity.
10What should a detailed client consultation include after greeting the client?
A.Only cashing up the till
B.Filling consultation and consent forms, recording tests and a recommended treatment plan
C.Skipping records to save time
D.Applying colour without discussion
Explanation: A detailed consultation includes appropriate communication, filling a consultation form and client consent form, recording any tests and results, and completing a recommended treatment plan.

About the MATSEC SEC Hairdressing and Beauty Exam

Malta Secondary Education Certificate (SEC) Hairdressing and Beauty — SEC 43 (2026) is administered by the MATSEC Examinations Board (University of Malta). Assessment follows the official SEC 43 2026 syllabus scheme: Vocational SEC model under the SEC 2019 Vocational Subjects Policy Document, which the Year 11 cohort sitting in 2026 follows: three Units, one for each of Years 9, 10 and 11. Each Unit is assessed by three assessment tasks — two coursework assignments (26-34% of the unit each) and one MATSEC-set controlled assessment (38-42%) that includes a written component. Criteria are graded as Knowledge, Comprehension and Application at MQF Levels 1, 2 and 3. Vocational assessments are not tiered; overall SEC Levels 1-3 are reported. The SEC 43 addendum for the 2026 session removes Unit 3 criteria K2, K6, C1 and C5 from both the taught content and the Unit 3 controlled assessment, with the marks pro-rated. SEC 43 is not offered for certification after 2026. Topic coverage follows the published subject foci / unit learning outcomes. This page’s MCQs are an English-language study adaptation, not an official MATSEC paper simulation.

Assessment

Vocational SEC model under the SEC 2019 Vocational Subjects Policy Document, which the Year 11 cohort sitting in 2026 follows: three Units, one for each of Years 9, 10 and 11. Each Unit is assessed by three assessment tasks — two coursework assignments (26-34% of the unit each) and one MATSEC-set controlled assessment (38-42%) that includes a written component. Criteria are graded as Knowledge, Comprehension and Application at MQF Levels 1, 2 and 3. Vocational assessments are not tiered; overall SEC Levels 1-3 are reported. The SEC 43 addendum for the 2026 session removes Unit 3 criteria K2, K6, C1 and C5 from both the taught content and the Unit 3 controlled assessment, with the marks pro-rated. SEC 43 is not offered for certification after 2026.

Time Limit

Unit controlled assessments as scheduled by MATSEC for vocational SEC subjects.

Passing Score

Overall SEC Level 1, 2 or 3 is reported from cumulative unit performance (Level 3 highest); candidates who do not reach Level 1 are reported as 'NA' (Not Attained). Vocational SEC assessments are not tiered, so the Level 1-2 / Level 2-3 paper choice and the eight-point Paper II grade scale used for non-vocational subjects do not apply here. A candidate who does not meet the passing criteria of a unit may register for a synoptic assessment of that unit up to two times (MATSEC Statistical Report 2025).

Exam Fee

The MATSEC Examination Fees schedule applicable from the 2026 sessions publishes no base registration fee per subject; only additional charges are listed — late registration EUR 35 per subject, very late registration EUR 70 per subject, Revision of Paper at SEC EUR 35, and change in school EUR 35. Examination fees are not refundable. (MATSEC Examinations Board, University of Malta)

MATSEC SEC Hairdressing and Beauty Exam Content Outline

Core

Reception and client consultation

Reception and client consultation

Core

Hair and skin structure

Hair and skin structure

Core

Salon health and safety

Salon health and safety

Core

Hair, scalp and skin conditions and treatments

Hair, scalp and skin conditions and treatments

Core

Shampooing, conditioning and face care

Shampooing, conditioning and face care

Core

Tools, equipment and posture

Tools, equipment and posture

Core

One-length haircut, blow-dry finishing, manicure and pedicure

One-length haircut, blow-dry finishing, manicure and pedicure

Core

Aftercare advice

Aftercare advice

How to Pass the MATSEC SEC Hairdressing and Beauty Exam

What You Need to Know

  • Passing score: Overall SEC Level 1, 2 or 3 is reported from cumulative unit performance (Level 3 highest); candidates who do not reach Level 1 are reported as 'NA' (Not Attained). Vocational SEC assessments are not tiered, so the Level 1-2 / Level 2-3 paper choice and the eight-point Paper II grade scale used for non-vocational subjects do not apply here. A candidate who does not meet the passing criteria of a unit may register for a synoptic assessment of that unit up to two times (MATSEC Statistical Report 2025).
  • Assessment: Vocational SEC model under the SEC 2019 Vocational Subjects Policy Document, which the Year 11 cohort sitting in 2026 follows: three Units, one for each of Years 9, 10 and 11. Each Unit is assessed by three assessment tasks — two coursework assignments (26-34% of the unit each) and one MATSEC-set controlled assessment (38-42%) that includes a written component. Criteria are graded as Knowledge, Comprehension and Application at MQF Levels 1, 2 and 3. Vocational assessments are not tiered; overall SEC Levels 1-3 are reported. The SEC 43 addendum for the 2026 session removes Unit 3 criteria K2, K6, C1 and C5 from both the taught content and the Unit 3 controlled assessment, with the marks pro-rated. SEC 43 is not offered for certification after 2026.
  • Time limit: Unit controlled assessments as scheduled by MATSEC for vocational SEC subjects.
  • Exam fee: The MATSEC Examination Fees schedule applicable from the 2026 sessions publishes no base registration fee per subject; only additional charges are listed — late registration EUR 35 per subject, very late registration EUR 70 per subject, Revision of Paper at SEC EUR 35, and change in school EUR 35. Examination fees are not refundable.

Keys to Passing

  • Complete 500+ practice questions
  • Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
  • Focus on highest-weighted sections
  • Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

MATSEC SEC Hairdressing and Beauty Study Tips from Top Performers

1Work from the official SEC 43 2026 syllabus learning outcomes and assessment criteria on um.edu.mt/matsec — examiners mark to those criteria.
2Practise timed controlled-assessment style tasks (not only MCQ); school SBA evidence still counts for school candidates where applicable.
3Choose the correct tier or unit path with your teacher before registration closes.
4Use MATSEC past papers and marking schemes for personal study only; commercial reproduction requires MATSEC permission.
5For non-MCQ components (oral, practical, portfolio, performance, coursework), schedule deliberate practice outside this bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is MATSEC SEC Hairdressing and Beauty?

Malta Secondary Education Certificate (SEC) Hairdressing and Beauty — SEC 43 (2026) is a Secondary Education Certificate subject administered by the MATSEC Examinations Board at the University of Malta under the 2026 learning-outcomes syllabus. It is taken mainly by Year 11 / Form V candidates (or private candidates aged 16+ by 31 December of the certification year).

How is MATSEC SEC Hairdressing and Beauty assessed?

Vocational SEC model under the SEC 2019 Vocational Subjects Policy Document, which the Year 11 cohort sitting in 2026 follows: three Units, one for each of Years 9, 10 and 11. Each Unit is assessed by three assessment tasks — two coursework assignments (26-34% of the unit each) and one MATSEC-set controlled assessment (38-42%) that includes a written component. Criteria are graded as Knowledge, Comprehension and Application at MQF Levels 1, 2 and 3. Vocational assessments are not tiered; overall SEC Levels 1-3 are reported. The SEC 43 addendum for the 2026 session removes Unit 3 criteria K2, K6, C1 and C5 from both the taught content and the Unit 3 controlled assessment, with the marks pro-rated. SEC 43 is not offered for certification after 2026.

How much does MATSEC SEC registration cost?

The MATSEC Examination Fees schedule applicable from the 2026 sessions publishes no base registration fee per subject; only additional charges are listed — late registration EUR 35 per subject, very late registration EUR 70 per subject, Revision of Paper at SEC EUR 35, and change in school EUR 35. Examination fees are not refundable.

What is a good overall SEC result?

Overall SEC Level 1, 2 or 3 is reported from cumulative unit performance (Level 3 highest); candidates who do not reach Level 1 are reported as 'NA' (Not Attained). Vocational SEC assessments are not tiered, so the Level 1-2 / Level 2-3 paper choice and the eight-point Paper II grade scale used for non-vocational subjects do not apply here. A candidate who does not meet the passing criteria of a unit may register for a synoptic assessment of that unit up to two times (MATSEC Statistical Report 2025).

Are these official MATSEC examination questions?

No. Official MATSEC SEC Hairdressing and Beauty uses written, oral, practical, performance and/or school-based components as set in the SEC 43 syllabus—not a fixed multiple-choice paper. This bank is an original English-language MCQ study adaptation for syllabus knowledge and decision practice only.