APS Score Guide & University Admission Guide 2026
Your Admission Point Score (APS) determines everything: which university accepts you, which course you can study, and your funding. Calculate your score and find exactly which doors it opens.
1. The Basics: How to Calculate Your Score
Before you apply, you need to know your number. Not all universities count your points the same way—a “30” at Wits is not the same as a “30” at UNISA. You can use our automated tool or learn to calculate it manually using the 7-point scale.
APS Score Calculator →
Stop guessing. Enter your marks into our automated calculator to get your official admission score instantly.
Manual GuideWhat Is an APS Score? →
Prefer to do it yourself? Understand how the 7-point scale works and which subjects (like Life Orientation) actually count.
Grade 12 ResultsCalculating with Final Marks →
A step-by-step guide on how to calculate your final APS score using your official Matric Grade 12 results.
2. The “What Can I Study?” Guide
This is the most critical section. Find the range that matches your calculated score to see a full directory of available courses, universities, and TVET colleges for the 2026 intake.
Low APS Guide (Certificates & TVETs) →
Status: University degrees are closed, but TVETs and Certificates are open. You can still become an engineer or business manager via the NATED route.
20 PointsThe Diploma Zone →
Status: Gateway to Diplomas. An APS of 20 is a “magic number” that opens doors to UNISA degrees and specific Diploma courses at UoTs like TUT and VUT.
21 – 24 PointsThe Working Class (National Diplomas) →
Status: Extended Degrees & Diplomas. The standard entry for Universities of Technology. Study HR, Logistics, Tourism, and Safety Management.
25 PointsThe “Bachelor” Threshold →
Status: University Exemption. 25 is the golden number for degrees. Wits might say no, but UL, UNISA, and NWU often say yes.
26 – 35+ PointsHigh Achievers (Mainstream Entry) →
Status: Mainstream University Entry. From Engineering to Law, you are in the green zone, but competition remains tough for top-tier universities.
3. University & Subject Specifics
Sometimes, the general rule doesn’t apply. Specific universities have their own academic quirks, especially for highly competitive programs like Teaching, Nursing, or Engineering.
UJ Low APS Programs →
The University of Johannesburg is massively popular. If your score is low, discover their specific “Extended Programmes” designed to help you get in.
APS Score for Teaching (BEd) →
Want to be a teacher? The score requirements for Education at institutions like UJ are rising every year. Read our full breakdown.
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.
Explore the Full APS Hub
Need more specific information? Dive into our comprehensive archive of university score requirements, bridging courses, and academic strategies.
Browse the Full APS Score Hub →