Choosing the right university for a teaching qualification is one of the most important steps for future educators. Stellenbosch University remains one of South Africa’s most reputable institutions for teacher education. However, many applicants often get confused about the APS score requirements, the subjects needed, and whether their results qualify them for admission. If you are planning to study teaching at Stellenbosch University, understanding these requirements will help you prepare confidently and avoid costly mistakes.
This article explains the Stellenbosch University APS score for teaching, how the APS score works, required subjects, entry expectations, and what to do if your APS score is too low. The explanations are simple, practical, and written in clear language. Whether you want to teach young learners in primary school or specialise in high school subjects, this guide will help you understand exactly what Stellenbosch University expects from you. By the end, you will know how to calculate your APS, the minimum score you need, and the steps to take to secure your place in the teaching programme.
Stellenbosch University Aps Score For Teaching
The Stellenbosch University APS score for teaching refers to the minimum Admission Points Score you must achieve in your final Grade 12 exams to qualify for a Bachelor of Education (BEd) or related teaching programmes. It helps the university determine whether you are academically ready and capable of meeting the academic demands of the course.
Applicants must have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with admission to a bachelor’s degree and meet the minimum APS for their chosen specialisation. Different teaching phases have different APS requirements, and some programmes also require specific subject marks.
What Is APS Score And How Does It Work?
APS stands for Admission Point Score. It converts your Grade 12 marks into points based on your performance in each subject. The higher your percentage, the more points you earn.
| NSC Achievement Level | Percentage Range | APS Points |
|---|---|---|
| Level 7 | 80% – 100% | 7 |
| Level 6 | 70% – 79% | 6 |
| Level 5 | 60% – 69% | 5 |
| Level 4 | 50% – 59% | 4 |
| Level 3 | 40% – 49% | 3 |
| Level 2 | 30% – 39% | 2 |
| Level 1 | 0% – 29% | 1 |
Your APS is calculated by adding the points from your best seven subjects, including languages and Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.
Minimum APS Score Required For Teaching At Stellenbosch University
The APS required depends on the teaching phase you want to pursue. Generally, the university expects:
| Teaching Specialisation | Minimum APS |
|---|---|
| BEd Foundation Phase | 32+ |
| BEd Intermediate Phase | 32+ |
| BEd Senior & FET Phase | 33+ |
| Specialised Teaching Fields | 34+ depending on subjects |
These are the baseline points. Meeting them does not guarantee admission because teaching programmes are competitive. Students are selected based on available space and subject performance in key areas.
Does Stellenbosch University Require Specific Subjects For Teaching?
Yes. Each teaching phase focuses on different foundational requirements.
Foundation Phase Teaching (Grades R–3)
Compulsory
- At least 50% in your Home Language
- Proficiency in English or Afrikaans
Recommended but not compulsory
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
- Life Sciences
- History
Intermediate Phase Teaching (Grades 4–6)
Compulsory
- A Home Language at 50% or more
- A First Additional Language at 40% or more
Beneficial subjects
- Mathematics
- Social Sciences
Senior and FET Phase Teaching (Grades 7–12)
This phase requires subject strength related to the area you wish to teach.
Examples:
- Mathematics specialisation: 60%+ in Mathematics
- Life Sciences teaching: 60%+ recommended
- Languages teaching: 55%+ in English or Afrikaans
How To Calculate Your APS For Stellenbosch University
Follow these steps:
- Write down your Grade 12 subjects and percentages.
- Convert them into APS points using the table.
- Add points from your best seven subjects.
- Compare the total to Stellenbosch University’s requirement.
Example
| Subject | Percentage | APS |
|---|---|---|
| English HL | 73% | 6 |
| Afrikaans FAL | 66% | 5 |
| Maths Literacy | 81% | 7 |
| Life Orientation | 70% | 6 |
| Life Sciences | 55% | 4 |
| Geography | 78% | 6 |
| History | 62% | 5 |
Total APS = 6 + 5 + 7 + 6 + 4 + 6 + 5 = 39
This score exceeds the minimum APS requirement comfortably.
Why Is APS Important At Stellenbosch University?
Stellenbosch University uses APS scores to:
- Screen applicants fairly and consistently
- Ensure academic readiness
- Manage high numbers of applications
- Maintain programme quality
Courses in education require strong academic foundations because teachers work with complex concepts and diverse learners.
People Also Ask
Is 28 APS Good Enough For Teaching At Stellenbosch University?
No. A score of 28 is below the required minimum. You generally need 32 APS or higher.
Can I Study Teaching Without Maths At Stellenbosch University?
Yes, for Foundation and Intermediate Phase programmes. Senior Phase teaching fields like Maths, Accounting, and Sciences require pure Mathematics.
Can I Get Accepted With The Minimum APS Score?
It depends. Meeting the APS helps you qualify, but final acceptance depends on space availability and subject-specific marks.
Does Stellenbosch University Accept Mathematical Literacy For Teaching?
Yes, but mainly for Foundation and Intermediate Phase Teaching. Maths specialisations require pure Mathematics.
What If I Do Not Meet The APS Score?
You can still pursue teaching by:
- Upgrading NSC subjects to improve marks
- Starting with a lower-level qualification and later applying for a BEd
- Choosing a teaching phase with lower subject requirements
Your APS is not the end of your teaching journey. It is just a starting point.
Skills Needed To Succeed In Teaching At Stellenbosch University
Successful education students often possess:
- Patience and empathy
- Strong communication skills
- Time management
- Logical reasoning
- Respect for diversity
- Interest in child or adolescent development
These are skills that help teachers thrive in real classrooms.
Benefits Of Studying Teaching At Stellenbosch University
Students benefit from:
- Strong academic support
- Practical teaching experience
- Experienced lecturers
- Modern learning environments
- High employability after graduation
A teaching degree from Stellenbosch is respected locally and internationally.
Career Opportunities After Completing Teaching
With a teaching qualification from Stellenbosch University, you can become:
- Foundation Phase teacher
- Intermediate Phase educator
- High school subject teacher
- Education researcher
- Curriculum consultant
- School administrator
- Private tutor
Education offers stability and long-term career growth.
Tips To Improve Your Chances Of Admission
- Aim higher than the minimum APS score
- Keep your language subjects strong
- Maintain good Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy marks
- Participate in educational activities, tutoring, or mentoring
- Submit all required documents correctly and on time
Conclusion
Understanding the Stellenbosch University APS score for teaching is essential for every aspiring educator. With the right APS score, correct subjects, and passion for teaching, you can successfully begin your studies at this respected institution. If you meet the requirements and prepare properly, your teaching career can start on a strong and exciting foundation.