Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to calculate your APS (Admission Point Score) for South African university applications.
What is an APS Score?
The APS is a points system used by South African universities to determine if you qualify for admission into a specific course. Your APS is calculated using your final NSC (matric) results.
Each subject score is converted to a point value, and then the total gives your APS.
Step 1: Understand the APS Scale
Your NSC percentage per subject is converted into APS points as follows:
| NSC % Mark | APS Points |
|---|---|
| 80–100% | 7 |
| 70–79% | 6 |
| 60–69% | 5 |
| 50–59% | 4 |
| 40–49% | 3 |
| 30–39% | 2 |
| 0–29% | 1 |
🟡 Some universities may use different or additional point systems (e.g. for Life Orientation, Maths Literacy vs Pure Maths). Always check the specific university requirements.
Step 2: List Your Subjects
You usually include your best 6 subjects (some universities exclude Life Orientation). Here’s an example:
| Subject | % Mark | APS Points |
|---|---|---|
| English Home Language | 72% | 6 |
| Mathematics | 68% | 5 |
| Life Sciences | 77% | 6 |
| Physical Sciences | 81% | 7 |
| Life Orientation | 88% | 7 (sometimes excluded) |
| Geography | 61% | 5 |
| Afrikaans First Additional | 55% | 4 |
Step 3: Add the Points
Choose 6 subjects (excluding Life Orientation if the university says so). Example:
English: 6
Maths: 5
Life Sciences: 6
Physical Sciences: 7
Geography: 5
Afrikaans: 4
TOTAL APS: 33
So the APS = 33 points
Step 4: Check the APS Requirements
Each university course has its own minimum APS requirement. For example:
| Degree | Typical APS Requirement |
|---|---|
| BCom in Accounting | 28–34 |
| BSc in Engineering | 35–42 |
| LLB (Law) | 30+ |
| BA in Psychology | 25+ |
| Diploma in Business Management | 18–24 |
Always check the specific program and faculty on the university website.
Special Rules to Note
- Life Orientation: Some universities accept it; others exclude it completely or cap its APS at 1 point.
- Maths vs Maths Literacy: Certain courses require Pure Maths; Maths Literacy may limit your options.
- Subjects like CAT or Tourism: Accepted at some universities, not all.
- Extra subjects: Only the best 6 subjects count unless otherwise specified.
APS Calculator Tools
You can also use free online APS calculators like:
- https://www.gostudy.net/aps
- https://www.matric.co.za/aps-calculator
- [University websites** like UJ, TUT, UP have built-in calculators]
Final Tips
- Use your Grade 11 final or matric June results when applying early (e.g. June–August)
- Final NSC results confirm admission in January
- Always check language, Maths, and faculty-specific subject requirements
- If your APS is low, consider bridging/foundation programs or TVET routes
Would you like me to calculate your APS using your subject marks? Just share your marks (no ID or personal info needed), and I’ll do the math for you.
