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APS Score Guide 2026

Your Admission Point Score (APS) is the most important number in your academic life right now. It determines everything: which university accepts you, which course you can study, and whether you get funding.

But not all universities count your points the same way. A “30” at Wits is not the same as a “30” at UNISA.

This guide acts as your master key. First, we help you calculate your score accurately. Then, we tell you exactly which doors that score will open in 2026.

1. The Basics: How to Calculate Your Score

Before you apply, you need to know your number. You can use our automated tool or learn to do it manually.

2. The “What Can I Study?” Matrix (Find Your Score)

This is the most critical section. Click on the range that matches your score to see a full list of available courses, universities, and colleges for 2026.

Low APS (14 – 19 Points)

Status: University degrees are closed, but TVETs and Certificates are open.

Don’t panic. You can still become an engineer or business manager via the NATED (TVET) route or Bridge Courses.

The Diploma Zone (20 Points)

Status: The gateway to Diplomas and Higher Certificates.

An APS of 20 is a very specific “magic number.” It opens doors to UNISA degrees and specific Diploma courses at UoTs like TUT and VUT if you have the right subjects.

The Working Class (21 – 24 Points)

Status: National Diplomas & Extended Degrees.

This is the standard entry for most Universities of Technology. You can study HR, Logistics, Tourism, and Safety Management.

The “Bachelor” Threshold (25 Points)

Status: University Exemption (Bachelor’s Degree).

25 is the “Golden Number” that makes you eligible for a degree, but you need to choose the right university. Wits might say no, but UL, UNISA, and NWU often say yes.

High Achievers (26 – 35+ Points)

Status: Mainstream University Entry.

From Engineering to Law. If you have 26+, you are in the “Green Zone,” but competition is tough for top-tier universities.

3. University & Subject Specifics

Sometimes, the general rule doesn’t apply. Specific universities have their own quirks, especially for competitive courses like Teaching or Medicine.

  • University of Johannesburg (UJ): UJ is one of the most popular universities in SA. If your score is low, they have specific “Extended Programmes” that can help you get in.
  • Teaching (BEd): Want to be a teacher? The score requirements for Education are rising every year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Life Orientation (LO) count?

It depends on the university. Most major universities (like Wits and UCT) do not count LO in their final calculation, or they give it half-points. However, many Universities of Technology (like TUT and VUT) often include it to help you reach the minimum requirement.

Can I study at University with 18 points?

Generally, no. A Bachelor’s degree usually requires 23+ points. However, with 18 points, you can do a Higher Certificate at a university (like UNISA). If you pass that certificate, you can apply for the degree the following year.

What is the difference between APS and WRS?

APS is for general admission. WRS (Weighted Rating System) is a more complex calculation used by institutions like WCT for specific competitive courses like Engineering, where Maths and Science marks are “weighted” more heavily than other subjects.