APS Calculator — All 26 SA Universities
Calculate your Admission Point Score for any South African public university. Each calculator uses that university's official 2026 APS method. Results can be saved to your profile and emailed to you.
What is an APS Score?
An Admission Point Score (APS) is a number calculated from your National Senior Certificate (NSC) matric results. South African universities use APS scores to determine whether you qualify for a specific degree or diploma programme.
Your APS is calculated by converting your subject percentages into points using a scale — usually 1 to 7 or 1 to 8 — and then adding those points together. Most universities use 6 of your best subjects, excluding Life Orientation. However, some universities like UNISA and UFH include all 7 subjects.
A higher APS score means you qualify for more competitive programmes. Each faculty within a university may also have its own minimum APS requirement on top of the general university minimum.
APS Calculation Differs by University Type
Traditional Universities
UCT, Wits, Stellenbosch, UP, UKZN
Most use a standard 7-point scale where 80%+ = 7 points. Some like UCT and Stellenbosch use percentage-based or weighted systems that are quite different from the standard scale.
Universities of Technology
CPUT, DUT, TUT, VUT, CUT, MUT
Many use an 8-point scale (90%+ = 8 points). Some like CPUT use a raw percentage divided by 10 method. Life Orientation is usually excluded.
Comprehensive Universities
UNISA, UWC, NMU, UMP, SPU
These vary the most. UNISA includes all 7 subjects. UWC uses a weighted system where English and Maths are doubled. NMU uses raw percentage totals with a quintile bonus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Life Orientation included in APS calculations?
It depends on the university. Most traditional universities and universities of technology exclude Life Orientation entirely. Some universities like UFS and CUT give it a bonus point if you score above a certain percentage. UNISA, UFH and UMP include it fully in the calculation.
Can I use Mathematical Literacy for university?
Mathematical Literacy is accepted by most universities for humanities, education and social science programmes. However, it is not accepted for science, engineering, health sciences or commerce at most universities. Some universities like UCT and Wits specifically exclude it for certain faculties.
What is the minimum APS to get into university?
The minimum APS varies by university and programme. Generally, most universities require at least 20–22 points for diploma programmes and 24–26 points for degree programmes. Competitive programmes like Medicine, Law and Engineering typically require 35+ points.
Does every university calculate APS the same way?
No — each South African university has its own official APS calculation method. Some use a 7-point scale, others use an 8-point scale, and some use raw percentage averages or weighted systems. This is why our calculators use each university's specific official method.
What happens if my APS is below the minimum?
Many universities offer Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECP) or Foundation Year programmes for students who narrowly miss the minimum APS. These are typically one year longer than the standard programme. You can also consider applying to a university with lower requirements or a diploma programme.
Can I improve my APS after matric?
Yes. You can rewrite specific matric subjects through the NSC supplementary exams or through private matric upgrade programmes. Improving your marks in key subjects like Mathematics or English can significantly raise your APS score.
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