What can I study with my APS? (South Africa)
Your APS (Admission Point Score) helps universities decide which programmes you qualify for — but APS works together with subject requirements, not on its own.
This guide helps you understand what different APS ranges usually allow you to study.
First: know your APS
Before anything else, calculate your APS using your best subjects.
Make sure you:
- Use the correct number of subjects (best 6 or 7)
- Include or exclude Life Orientation correctly
- Check Maths vs Math Lit (very important)
APS ranges: what they usually mean
⚠️ These are general guidelines, not guarantees. Universities and programmes differ.
APS 15–20 (approximate range)
You may qualify for:
- Some Higher Certificate programmes
- Selected TVET college programmes
- Bridging or access programmes (where offered)
Good option if:
- You need a pathway into a diploma or degree
- You want to upgrade results later
APS 21–24 (approximate range)
You may qualify for:
- Many Diploma programmes
- Some Higher Certificates
- Selected university diplomas (depending on subjects)
Important:
- Subject requirements (especially Maths) still apply
APS 25–29 (approximate range)
You may qualify for:
- Many Diplomas
- Some Bachelor’s degree programmes (depending on field)
- Extended or foundation degree programmes
This is a strong range for:
- Business-related degrees
- Humanities (depending on subjects)
APS 30+ (approximate range)
You may qualify for:
- Many Bachelor’s degrees
- Competitive programmes (depending on subjects and institution)
Examples (subject-dependent):
- BCom
- BA
- Some BSc degrees
Very competitive degrees (like Engineering or Medicine) usually need:
- High APS
- Mathematics
- Physical Sciences
APS alone is NOT enough (very important)
Universities also check:
- Required subjects (Maths, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, languages)
- Minimum subject percentages
- Programme-specific rules
Example: You can have a high APS, but still be rejected if you don’t have Mathematics for an Engineering-related programme.
How to improve your options if your APS is too low
If your APS does not meet your target:
- Upgrade specific subjects
- Rewrite key subjects (often Maths or Science)
- Start with a Higher Certificate and progress upward
- Choose programmes with lower APS but good career paths
Helpful guides:
Smart planning tip (students who succeed do this)
- Choose the career, not just the qualification
- Check APS + subject requirements
- Calculate your APS
- Adjust your plan (upgrade, rewrite, or change pathway)