Are you a matric learner or recent graduate wondering whether you can still qualify for admission at Wits University with an APS of 30 or slightly less? The good news is that some Wits University courses accept applicants with a minimum APS of 30, depending on the programme and selection criteria. If you're aiming to study at one of South Africa’s most prestigious universities, understanding where you stand based on your APS score is a critical first step.
In this guide, we focus on the Wits courses available to students with 30 APS for the 2026 academic year. We also unpack what APS means, which faculties offer accessible options, and what you can do if your score is on the borderline.
Wits University Courses That Accept an APS of 30
According to the official Wits prospectus, the following programmes accept applicants with an APS of 30, either directly or on a waitlist basis. These programmes are often found in the Faculty of Humanities, and most include creative or community-oriented fields of study.
BA in Theatre and Performance
- APS requirement: Minimum 30 (waitlist for applicants under 34)
- Other requirements: Applicants must pass an audition and interview
- Duration: 3 years
- Faculty: Humanities
- Subjects recommended: English, Dramatic Arts
- Careers: Actor, theatre director, stage manager, performance coach, voice artist
The Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Performance is designed for students who want to pursue a professional career in drama, acting, or theatre production. Although the academic APS is slightly lower than other Wits degrees, the programme places strong emphasis on practical talent, performance ability, and creativity.
BA in Digital Arts
- APS requirement: Minimum 30 (waitlist for applicants under 34)
- Other requirements: Portfolio and interview
- Duration: 3 years
- Faculty: Humanities
- Subjects recommended: Visual Arts, IT, English
- Careers: Game designer, digital illustrator, animator, concept artist, UX/UI designer
Digital Arts is a competitive and fast-evolving field. The Wits BA in Digital Arts offers access to world-class digital production facilities and is ideal for students with a passion for animation, gaming, or multimedia storytelling.
BA (General) – Bachelor of Arts
- APS requirement: Minimum 30 (waitlist below 34)
- Other requirements: None
- Duration: 3 years
- Faculty: Humanities
- Subjects recommended: English, History, Life Orientation
- Careers: Policy analyst, NGO assistant, journalist, social media coordinator, human resources assistant
The general BA is one of Wits University’s most flexible degree paths. You can choose from a wide range of majors including Psychology, History, Political Science, Anthropology, Media Studies, and many more. If you’re unsure what career you want to follow, this degree provides room to explore.
BA in Music
- APS requirement: Minimum 30 (waitlist below 34)
- Other requirements: Practical music audition
- Duration: 3 years
- Faculty: Humanities
- Subjects recommended: Music, English
- Careers: Music teacher, performer, composer, music director, sound designer
This degree requires musical talent and technical skill. A strong performance in your audition can outweigh a lower APS score, making it a viable option for learners with an artistic profile and formal music training.
BA in Social Work
- APS requirement: Minimum 30 (waitlist below 34)
- Other requirements: Motivational letter and interview
- Duration: 4 years
- Faculty: Humanities
- Subjects recommended: Life Orientation, English, Social Sciences
- Careers: Social worker, child welfare officer, youth development practitioner, community liaison
Wits Social Work applicants with 30 APS are considered, particularly if they can demonstrate passion for community development, volunteering experience, or a strong motivational letter. Social Work is a regulated profession and this degree qualifies you to register with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).
Does Wits University Accept Students with an APS Below 30?
The minimum APS score for any undergraduate degree at Wits University in 2026 is 30, based on the current prospectus. If you have a score below 30, you will likely not be considered for mainstream degree programmes. However, you still have options:
- Rewrite your matric subjects to improve your results and raise your APS
- Apply for bridging or foundation programmes at other institutions to qualify later for Wits admission
- Explore TVET colleges or private institutions that offer articulation pathways into university degrees
Wits does not offer foundation year programmes for applicants with APS below 30, but some other South African universities may.
Factors That Influence Selection Beyond APS
For programmes that accept lower APS scores, selection is often based on a combination of academic performance and practical skills or personal motivation. Here are some examples of what Wits may take into account:
- Auditions (for performance-based degrees)
- Portfolio submissions (for creative or design programmes)
- Motivational letters and interviews (especially for Social Work)
- Subject-specific performance (e.g. a strong mark in English or Dramatic Arts may help offset a lower overall APS)
Being prepared for these elements is just as important as your APS score, particularly when applying to competitive programmes that rely on artistic, interpersonal, or expressive talent.
