Getting accepted to study teaching at the University of South Africa (UNISA) requires meeting specific academic standards — one of the most important being your APS score. Understanding what this score means, how it’s calculated, and what minimum points you need for teaching courses at UNISA can make the difference between getting accepted or not.
The Admission Point Score (APS) helps universities assess whether you qualify for a particular programme based on your National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent results. At UNISA, each qualification — including Education degrees — has its own APS requirement. The higher your marks in key subjects like English and Mathematics, the better your chances of meeting or exceeding these requirements.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the APS score for teaching at UNISA. We’ll cover how to calculate it, the APS needed for each level of teaching qualification, and what you can do if your APS is too low.
APS Score For Teaching At UNISA
The APS score for teaching at UNISA is the total number of points calculated from your matric results. Each subject you pass in the NSC contributes a certain number of points, depending on your percentage.
For UNISA’s education qualifications, your APS determines whether you qualify for:
- Higher Certificate in Education (HCE)
- Diploma in Education
- Bachelor of Education (BEd)
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
In simple terms, your APS is your academic “scorecard.” UNISA uses it to check if you meet the entry requirements for the qualification you’re applying for.
Here’s a quick summary:
- APS is calculated using your best six subjects (excluding Life Orientation for some programmes).
- Each percentage range corresponds to a specific point value (usually between 1 and 7).
- Your total APS is the sum of these six points.
How To Calculate Your APS Score For UNISA
Calculating your APS is quite simple. Each subject result from your matric certificate gives you a certain number of points based on your achievement level:
| Percentage | Achievement Level | APS Points |
|---|---|---|
| 80–100% | Level 7 (Outstanding) | 7 |
| 70–79% | Level 6 (Meritorious) | 6 |
| 60–69% | Level 5 (Substantial) | 5 |
| 50–59% | Level 4 (Moderate) | 4 |
| 40–49% | Level 3 (Adequate) | 3 |
| 30–39% | Level 2 (Elementary) | 2 |
| 0–29% | Level 1 (Not Achieved) | 0 |
Example APS Calculation
Let’s say you have the following marks:
- English: 70% (6 points)
- Mathematics: 55% (4 points)
- Life Sciences: 65% (5 points)
- Geography: 60% (5 points)
- History: 80% (7 points)
- Life Orientation: 75% (not always counted)
If UNISA counts your best six subjects excluding Life Orientation:
6 + 4 + 5 + 5 + 7 = 27 APS
That means your total APS is 27.
Minimum APS Score For Teaching At UNISA
UNISA offers several teaching programmes, and each has its own APS requirement. Below is a breakdown of the most common ones:
1. Higher Certificate in Education (HCE)
- Minimum APS: 15
- Purpose: This is an entry-level qualification designed for students who do not yet meet the requirements for a degree or diploma.
- Duration: 1 year (full-time equivalent)
- Subjects required:
- English: 40% or higher
- A second language: 40%
- No specific subject requirements, but basic literacy and numeracy are important.
This qualification can act as a bridge to the Bachelor of Education once completed.
2. Diploma in Grade R Teaching
- Minimum APS: 18
- Duration: 3 years
- Entry Requirements:
- National Senior Certificate with a minimum of 40% in English
- 40% in Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
- An APS of at least 18
This diploma prepares you to teach learners in Grade R (the reception year before Grade 1). It focuses on early childhood education and learning foundations.
3. Bachelor of Education (BEd)
UNISA offers several BEd degrees, each targeting different teaching levels.
BEd Foundation Phase Teaching (Grades R–3)
- Minimum APS: 23
- Requirements:
- English: 50%
- A language of teaching and learning: 50%
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: 40%
- Duration: 4 years
This degree prepares you to teach young learners in their earliest school years.
BEd Intermediate Phase Teaching (Grades 4–6)
- Minimum APS: 23
- Requirements:
- English: 50%
- Mathematics or Science subject: 40%
- A second language: 40%
BEd Senior Phase and Further Education and Training (FET)
- Minimum APS: 24
- Requirements:
- English: 50%
- Relevant subject for the teaching specialisation: 50%
This qualification trains you to teach in higher grades, including high school.
4. Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
- Minimum APS: Not directly calculated, since this is a postgraduate qualification.
- Requirements:
- A recognised bachelor’s degree with relevant subjects for teaching.
- 60% average in major subjects preferred.
The PGCE is for graduates who want to become qualified teachers without completing a BEd.
What Subjects Count For APS At UNISA?
When calculating your APS, UNISA counts your best six subjects from your NSC. Typically, these include:
- English (compulsory)
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
- Any four additional subjects
Note: Life Orientation is sometimes excluded, depending on the qualification. Always check your chosen programme’s admission requirements before applying.
Can You Study Teaching At UNISA Without Maths?
Yes, you can — depending on the programme.
- For Foundation Phase and Grade R Teaching, Mathematical Literacy is accepted.
- For Intermediate and Senior Phase, Mathematics is often required or recommended, especially if you plan to teach maths or science subjects.
If you struggled with Maths in matric, don’t worry. Focus on improving your English and other core subjects, as UNISA places strong emphasis on language and communication skills for teachers.
What If Your APS Score Is Too Low For UNISA Teaching?
If your APS doesn’t meet the minimum requirements, don’t give up — there are several options available:
1. Start With a Higher Certificate
This is the most common route for students with low APS. Once you complete it successfully, you can apply for the Bachelor of Education.
2. Upgrade Your Matric Results
You can rewrite one or more subjects to improve your marks and boost your APS.
3. Apply for a Bridging Course
Some private institutions offer bridging courses designed to help you qualify for a degree.
4. Gain Work or Volunteer Experience
Experience in early childhood centres, tutoring, or education-related volunteering can help strengthen your application later.
Why Your APS Score Matters For UNISA Teaching
Your APS score is the key to unlocking your teaching career. It helps UNISA assess:
- Your academic readiness
- Your ability to handle university-level coursework
- Whether you qualify for financial aid or bursaries
A strong APS not only increases your chances of admission but can also open doors to scholarships or merit-based funding.
Common Questions People Ask
What Is The APS Score For BEd At UNISA?
The minimum APS for a Bachelor of Education at UNISA is 23 to 24 points, depending on the phase specialisation (Foundation, Intermediate, or Senior/FET).
How Long Is The Teaching Course At UNISA?
The Bachelor of Education takes four years to complete full-time, or longer if studied part-time. The Diploma in Grade R Teaching takes three years, and the Higher Certificate in Education typically lasts one year.
Does UNISA Accept NC(V) Students For Teaching?
Yes. UNISA may accept NC(V) Level 4 qualifications if the subjects align with the requirements and the applicant meets the APS threshold. However, it is best to confirm with UNISA’s admissions office before applying.
Can You Study Teaching Online At UNISA?
Yes, UNISA is a distance learning university. All teaching programmes can be studied online, allowing students to learn at their own pace while working or managing family responsibilities.
Do You Need Maths To Be A Teacher At UNISA?
You don’t always need Mathematics. Mathematical Literacy is accepted for Foundation and Intermediate Phase teaching, but Mathematics is preferred for those who want to specialise in maths or science education.
Tips To Increase Your Chances Of Admission
- Meet the language requirements.
English proficiency is essential for all UNISA teaching qualifications. - Submit your application early.
UNISA has limited spaces and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. - Ensure your documents are certified.
Include all required certificates, IDs, and transcripts. - Maintain good grades in your core subjects.
Strong results in English and teaching-related subjects boost your application. - Consider alternative pathways.
If your APS is below 20, start with a Higher Certificate in Education.
Final Thoughts
The APS score for teaching at UNISA is one of the most important factors that determine your eligibility to study education. Whether you want to teach in the Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, or Senior Phase, meeting the minimum APS ensures that you are academically prepared for the programme.
If your APS is below the required threshold, don’t lose hope. UNISA provides flexible pathways such as Higher Certificates and Diplomas to help you reach your goal of becoming a qualified teacher.
Teaching is one of the most rewarding professions — and UNISA makes it possible for students across South Africa to earn their degree online while gaining real-world experience. With the right APS and determination, your journey to shaping future generations can begin today.