North West University APS Calculator

Use our free calculator to work out your Admission Point Score (APS) for NWU. Just enter your marks to see if you meet the requirements.

Please make sure to select your 6 best subjects and corresponding scores. Life Orientation (LO) is compulsory but not included in the APS calculation

Languages

Mathematics

Life Orientation

North West University (NWU) does not consider Life Orientation in their APS calculation.

Other Subjects (3 Required)

NWU Requirements

Engineering 34
Pharmacy 32
Law (LLB) 28
Commerce (BCom) 24 - 26
Education (BEd) 24
Humanities (BA) 22 - 24
Diploma / HC 18 - 22
*Scores are indicative. Selection courses require higher APS.

Ready to Apply?

Applications for 2026/2027 are free and fully online.

Download Prospectus Apply Online

Check Other APS Calculators

UJ
UJ APS Calculator
W
Wits APS Calculator
UP
UP APS Calculator
View All Calculators →

NWU Calculation Methods (2026/2027)

North-West University (NWU) uses the standard NSC 7-Point Rating Scale. Your percentage for each subject is converted into a level (1-7), and these levels are added together.

Official NWU Points Table

NWU uses the standard NSC 7-Point scale.

NSC Percentage NWU Level (Points) Description
80% - 100% 7 Outstanding Achievement
70% - 79% 6 Meritorious Achievement
60% - 69% 5 Substantial Achievement
50% - 59% 4 Moderate Achievement
40% - 49% 3 Adequate Achievement
30% - 39% 2 Elementary Achievement
0% - 29% 1 Not Achieved

Important: Like most universities, NWU excludes Life Orientation from the standard APS calculation (0 points), though it may be used for specific faculty decisions or tie-breaking.

Help a friend by sharing this NWU calculator

WhatsApp Facebook Post LinkedIn Email

Frequently Asked Questions

When do NWU applications for 2027 open?
Applications typically open on 1 April 2026 for the 2027 academic intake.

Closing Dates:
  • Selection Courses (e.g. Health Sciences): 30 June 2026
  • All other Faculties (Commerce, Engineering, etc.): 31 August 2026
Do I need to write NBTs for NWU?
No. NWU officially states that you do not need to write the National Benchmark Test (NBT) for admission to any of their undergraduate programs. Your admission is based on your NSC results.
Does Life Orientation count at NWU?
Generally, No. NWU calculates your APS using your 6 best subjects excluding Life Orientation. However, obtaining a high mark (60%+) in LO is still recommended as some faculties use it for tie-breaking decisions.
What is the NWU application fee?
It is Free. There is no application fee for online applications at North-West University. You can apply without paying anything upfront.
Can I study at NWU with Maths Literacy?
Yes, for specific faculties such as Humanities, Law (BA Law), Education, and Theology.

However, faculties like Engineering, Natural Sciences, Health Sciences, and Commerce (BCom) typically require Pure Mathematics.
What if my APS is slightly too low?
NWU offers excellent Extended Degree Programmes. For example, if a BSc course requires an APS of 26, the Extended version might accept an APS of 24. These programmes include an extra foundational year.
What points do I get for marks below 40%?
NWU uses the standard NSC scale:
  • 30% - 39%: Level 2 (2 Points)
  • 0% - 29%: Level 1 (1 Point)
Do I apply with Grade 11 marks?
Yes. Your final Grade 11 results are used for provisional acceptance. Final admission is confirmed only once your Grade 12 results meet the requirements.
How many campuses does NWU have?
NWU has three main campuses: Potchefstroom, Mahikeng, and Vanderbijlpark. Always check which campus offers your specific degree before applying.
What are 'Selection Courses'?
These are high-demand courses like Nursing, Pharmacy, and Graphic Design. They have earlier closing dates (30 June) and may require portfolios or interviews.

Just a Quick Note Before You Go

We built this tool to help you navigate the admissions maze, but it's important to remember that your future is more than just a number on a screen. Think of this result as your personal admission compass, a great starting point for your admission journey, but not the final finish line.

Universities are dynamic, and while we strive for 100% accuracy, their selection criteria often involves factors a calculator can't see, such as:

  • Portfolios, interviews, or NBT results
  • Specific subject minimums and combos
  • Language proficiency requirements
  • Space availability for your desired course

Our Advice: Use this score to narrow your search, then verify the latest facts directly with the university's prospectus.