In this guide, we explain how the APS system works, how to calculate your score, and what the minimum APS requirements are for top South African universities in 2025.
What is an APS Score?
The APS score is a way of converting your matric results into points. Each percentage range equals a number of points, as shown below:
| Percentage (%) | APS Points |
|---|---|
| 80 – 100 | 7 |
| 70 – 79 | 6 |
| 60 – 69 | 5 |
| 50 – 59 | 4 |
| 40 – 49 | 3 |
| 30 – 39 | 2 |
| 0 – 29 | 1 |
How to Calculate Your APS Score
- Take your final matric results for your best six subjects (not including Life Orientation at some universities).
- Use the table above to convert each percentage into APS points.
- Add them together to get your total APS score.
Example:
- Mathematics – 75% = 6 points
- Physical Sciences – 68% = 5 points
- English – 80% = 7 points
- Life Sciences – 65% = 5 points
- Geography – 72% = 6 points
- Afrikaans – 55% = 4 points
Total APS = 33 points
Some courses will also require you to pass certain subjects with minimum marks (e.g., 60% in Mathematics for Engineering).
Minimum APS Requirements by University (2025)
Below is a summary of the general APS requirements at leading South African universities. Remember, some competitive courses require higher scores than the minimum.
| University | General Minimum APS | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| University of Cape Town (UCT) | 36 – 40+ | Highly competitive, especially Law and Medicine |
| University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) | 34 – 42 | Medicine requires 42+, Commerce around 39+ |
| University of Pretoria (UP) | 30 – 38 | Engineering and Health Sciences need higher marks |
| Stellenbosch University (SU) | 36 – 40 | Faculty-specific; strong emphasis on Maths and Science |
| University of Johannesburg (UJ) | 26 – 36 | Extended programmes available for lower APS |
| North-West University (NWU) | 24 – 30 | Bridging programmes offered for some courses |
| University of the Free State (UFS) | 28 – 36 | Varies by course and faculty |
| Rhodes University | 34 | Strong subject passes required |
| Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) | 24 – 30 | Depends on diploma vs degree programme |
| Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) | 22 – 30 | Extended programmes available |
APS Requirements by Popular Courses
- Medicine: 42+ (UCT, Wits, UP)
- Engineering: 36+ (Maths & Physical Science compulsory)
- Law: 34 – 40+ depending on the university
- Teaching: 25 – 30+
- Accounting/Commerce: 34 – 38
- Nursing: 27 – 32 depending on the programme
What if Your APS is Too Low?
Do not panic if your APS score is below the requirement. There are still many options available:
Apply for a foundation programme
If your APS came out lower than you expected and now you are stressing that varsity is off the table. First thing — breathe. It is not game over. One really good option that a lot of people overlook is a foundation programme.
Basically, a foundation programme is like a “prep year” at university. It is made for students who did not quite meet the entry requirements but still have the potential to succeed. Instead of throwing you straight into the deep end, it gives you extra time to build up the basics — university maths, academic writing, computer skills, and other things while slowly introducing you to varsity‑level subjects.
The nice thing? You are already part of the university when you do it. You will be on campus, using the same facilities, meeting lecturers, making friends… so you would not feel left out. And once you pass the foundation year, you can roll over into the degree you actually wanted. Think of it as taking the scenic route instead of the highway — slower, but you still get to the same destination.
“I was crushed when my APS was too low for the degree I wanted. A friend told me about the foundation programme at Wits, and honestly, it changed everything. The smaller classes gave me confidence, and I got extra support in maths and writing. After a year, I moved straight into my degree, and now I’m in third year. The foundation programme didn’t hold me back – it gave me a second chance to shine.”
– Lerato, Foundation Graduate
The benefits of doing a foundation programme are huge: you get a second chance, you are less likely to drop out, and you build a strong academic foundation (hence the name). And most universities in South Africa — like Wits, UCT, UP, UKZN and others offer them.
So if your APS is holding you back, don’t write yourself off. A foundation programme could be the bridge between where you are now and where you want to be.
Consider TVET Colleges as the pathway to university
There is another way of getting into university that most people ignore, and that is through TVET colleges. TVET stands for Technical and Vocational Education and Training. Sounds fancy, but what it really means is hands‑on learning. These colleges focus on practical skills, things like engineering, business management, IT, hospitality, even art and design. Now here is the part people do not always know: certain TVET qualifications can actually link you back into university studies later.
Let us say you could not get into a BCom at university because of your APS. You could start with a business diploma at a TVET, finish it, and then apply for admission into university. Some universities even have formal agreements with TVET colleges to accept students who have done well there. It is like proving yourself first, then stepping up.
The bonus? TVET is usually cheaper than university, and the classes are smaller, which means more personal attention is given. You also get job‑ready skills while you study, so even if you do not move on to university right away, you can still find work or start a small hustle.
So do not let a low APS close doors in your mind. TVET can be the stepping stone that gets you both the skills and the qualifications you need. You might just surprise yourself with how far it can take you.
“I didn’t qualify for university, so I went to a TVET college for Electrical Engineering. At first, I thought it was the ‘lower option,’ but it turned out to be the best decision. I learned real, practical skills and even started earning while studying. Later, I used my diploma to apply for university, and I was accepted! Now I have both hands-on experience and a degree on the way. TVET wasn’t a backup plan – it was my stepping stone.”
– Thabo, TVET to Varsity Student
Do a Diploma or Higher Certificate first and then upgrade
Doing a Higher Certificate or Diploma first can be a clever way to work your way up. Think of it like climbing stairs. A degree is the top step, sure, but a Higher Certificate or Diploma is that first step that helps you reach it. Many universities in South Africa offer these qualifications exactly for students who do not meet the APS for direct entry. Once you finish and pass well, you can apply to upgrade into a degree in the same field.
The best part? You are not wasting time. The stuff you learn in your certificate or diploma often counts towards your degree later, so it is more like laying a foundation than starting over. Plus, the classes are usually smaller, which gives you more one‑on‑one time with lecturers, and you get to build confidence before facing the heavier load of a full degree.
So if your APS is low, do not see it as a wall. A Higher Certificate or Diploma can be the doorway you use to still end up where you wanted to be. Slow route? Maybe. Smart route? Definitely.
“When I didn’t get accepted into the teaching degree, I almost gave up. But I decided to do a Higher Certificate in Education first. That one year gave me confidence and showed the university that I was serious. I worked hard, passed well, and was upgraded into the full degree programme. Today, I’m proud to say I’m on track to become a qualified teacher. Starting with a Higher Certificate didn’t delay me – it prepared me.”
– Zanele, Higher Certificate Graduate
Consider rewriting your matric subjects
If somehow you missed the mark in a key subject like maths or physical science and those are major subjects in the field you want to study, rewriting those subjects can help. Rewriting matric subjects is not the end of the world. In fact, it is one of the smartest moves you can make.
Rewriting gives you a second chance to boost your marks and open doors that felt shut. Universities, bursaries, and even jobs often look at your results again once you have improved them. The best part? You already know the exam style and what to expect, so you are not starting from scratch.
“Failing matric the first time broke me. But I decided to rewrite maths and life sciences instead of giving up. It wasn’t easy — balancing study and part-time work was tough — but the second time around, I improved my marks. That rewrite opened the door to nursing college, and now I’m studying my dream course. Rewriting wasn’t failure; it was my comeback.”
– Sipho, Matric Rewrite Success
Plenty of learners who struggled the first time around have gone back, rewritten, and come out stronger. It takes discipline and patience, yes, but the reward is huge, more study options, better confidence, and a shot at the future you actually want.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Life Orientation included in APS?
Most universities do not include Life Orientation in APS calculations, but some may count it. Always check the specific university’s requirements.
Can I apply if my APS is 1 point lower than required?
Yes, some universities allow this if you meet subject requirements, but your application will be less competitive.
What is the lowest APS to get into university in South Africa?
The lowest APS for entry into diploma or extended programmes is around 18 – 22, depending on the university.
Do private universities use APS?
Private institutions like Varsity College and Eduvos may not use APS but have their own entry requirements.
Do all universities calculate APS the same way?
No, each university may have slight differences in how they calculate APS. Some count Life Orientation, others don’t. Some may also give bonus points for high marks in key subjects like Mathematics or Physical Sciences.
When should I start calculating my APS score?
You can start as early as Grade 10 or 11 to see if you are on track for your desired course. This helps you know where to improve before final exams.
Does having a higher APS guarantee university acceptance?
Not always. A higher APS improves your chances, but some courses also require additional assessments, National Benchmark Tests (NBTs), or specific subject passes.
Conclusion
Your APS score plays a big role in whether you qualify for your dream course, but it is not the only factor. Work hard on your matric exams, aim for strong subject marks, and remember that there are always alternative pathways if your score is lower than expected.
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