When applying to a university in South Africa, your APS score is one of the most important factors that determines whether you qualify for your chosen programme. But what exactly is an APS score, how is it calculated, and what can you do if you don’t meet the minimum requirements?
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about APS scores, including how they impact your university application and alternative options if your score isn’t high enough.
1. What is an APS Score?
The Admission Point Score (APS) is a system used by South African universities to evaluate a student’s matric results and determine eligibility for different qualifications. Each subject is allocated a point value based on the percentage you achieve.
How APS Points Are Calculated
Your best six subjects (excluding Life Orientation at most universities) are considered, and points are awarded as follows (note universities calculate differently):
| Percentage (%) | APS Points |
|---|---|
| 80 – 100% | 7 |
| 70 – 79% | 6 |
| 60 – 69% | 5 |
| 50 – 59% | 4 |
| 40 – 49% | 3 |
| 30 – 39% | 2 |
| 0 – 29% | 1 |
Example APS Calculation
If your results are:
- Mathematics – 65% → 5 points
- Physical Sciences – 70% → 6 points
- English – 75% → 6 points
- Life Sciences – 60% → 5 points
- Geography – 80% → 7 points
- Business Studies – 55% → 4 points
Total APS Score: 33
Each university and qualification has its own minimum APS requirement, which is why it is important to check before applying.
2. How APS Scores Impact University Admissions
Your APS score determines which courses you qualify for at different universities. Generally:
- Degree Programmes require a minimum APS of 21–35, depending on the course.
- Diplomas usually require an APS of 18–24.
- Higher Certificates have lower APS requirements (15–22), making them a good alternative if you don’t meet degree entry requirements.
Example APS Requirements for Popular Degrees
- Medicine (MBChB) – APS 35+
- Engineering – APS 31+
- Law (LLB) – APS 28+
- Teaching (BEd) – APS 23+
- Bachelor of Arts (BA) – APS 22+
- Diploma in IT – APS 19+
(Requirements vary per university, so always check before applying.)
3. What If You Don’t Meet the APS Requirements?
If your APS score isn’t high enough for your chosen course, there are alternative options to consider.
Option 1: Apply for a Related Diploma or Higher Certificate
If you don’t qualify for a degree, consider applying for a diploma or higher certificate in a related field. Many universities allow students to upgrade from a diploma to a degree after completing the first year.
For example:
- If you don’t qualify for a BCom degree, you can apply for a Higher Certificate in Business Studies first.
- If you missed the APS for an Engineering degree, you can apply for a Diploma in Engineering Technology.
Option 2: Consider Bridging Courses or Extended Programmes
Some universities offer bridging or extended degree programmes, designed for students with lower APS scores. These courses add an extra year of foundational learning to help students catch up.
A few universities that offer extended programmes include:
Option 3: Rewrite Matric Subjects to Improve Your APS
If your APS score is close to the minimum, you can rewrite some matric subjects to boost your score. You can:
- Rewrite at your former school (if within a certain time frame).
- Register for the NSC Second Chance Matric Programme (DBE).
- Enrol at private institutions like Damelin.
Option 4: Consider TVET Colleges for Alternative Qualifications
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges offer practical, skills-based programmes that can lead to employment or further studies. Some diplomas from TVET colleges allow you to enter university later.
Popular TVET colleges include:
- South West Gauteng TVET College
- Ekurhuleni West TVET College
- Tshwane South TVET College
Option 5: Explore Private Colleges and Online Learning
If you don’t qualify for university but still want to pursue a career in your field, consider private colleges or online courses. Institutions like:
- Boston City Campus
- Varsity College
- Rosebank College
These colleges offer alternative qualifications that are often more flexible.
4. Final Tips for University Applicants
- Calculate your APS early so you know which courses you qualify for.
- Check university requirements—APS isn’t the only factor; some programmes require specific subjects and minimum marks.
- Apply to multiple institutions to increase your chances of acceptance.
- Have a backup plan in case you don’t meet your first-choice programme’s requirements.
5. Ready to Apply for 2026? Let’s Get Started
Now that you understand how APS scores impact your application, it’s time to take the next step.
- Use our APS Calculator to check which universities you qualify for.
- Browse our university guides to find the best course for you.
- Check out bursaries and funding options to help you pay for your studies.
