Have you ever stared at a university application form and wondered what on earth an “APS” is? You’re definitely not alone! The Admission Points Score (or APS) is one of those terms that gets tossed around when you’re applying to South African institutions like UNISA, but rarely gets properly explained. Let’s change that today.
The APS Mystery Unwrapped
The Admission Points Score is basically your academic passport that allows universities to figure out if you qualify for specific courses. Think of it as your academic currency: the more points you have, the more academic “shopping” options become available to you.
Your APS isn’t some arbitrary number pulled from thin air. It’s calculated based on your matric results (or equivalent qualifications), with each subject contributing to your final score. Different schools have slightly different calculation methods, but the core concept remains the same – translating your academic performance into a standardized number.
How is Your APS Calculated?
Here’s where things get interesting (and yes, a bit technical). Most South African universities follow a similar pattern:
Each of your subject percentages gets converted into points. For example:
- 80-100% equal 7 points
- 70-79% equal 6 points
- 60-69% equal 5 points
- 50-59% equal 4 points
- 40-49% equal 3 points
- 30-39% equal 2 points; and
- 0-29% equal 1 point.
These individual subject points are then added together to create your total APS. Some institutions include all your subjects, while others might only count your best six or seven. UNISA, for instance, typically looks at your best six subjects, excluding Life Orientation.
Remember when math class seemed pointless? Well, here’s your answer – it’s adding up to determine your academic future!
Why Your APS Score Matters
Your APS isn’t just another number to stress about – it’s actually quite helpful. It serves as:
- A quick way for universities to assess if you meet their basic requirements
- A fair method to compare students from different schools and backgrounds
- A guide to help you identify which qualifications you’re eligible for
Think about it – universities receive thousands of applications. Without a standardized system like the APS, how would they fairly compare a student from a small rural school with someone from an established urban academy?
The APS helps level the playing field, focusing on academic achievement rather than school reputation.
APS Requirements: What's the Magic Number?
This is where things get personal. Different courses require different minimum APS scores. Generally speaking:
Medicine and engineering programs might ask for an APS of 35+, while teaching degrees might need around 25-28 points. Diploma programs might accept students with scores in the high 10s to lower 20s while certificate programs generally accept students with a low to mid 10s APS..
But here’s the thing – meeting the minimum doesn’t guarantee acceptance. Popular programs often fill up with higher-scoring applicants, effectively raising the real “minimum” required. So sometimes it also doesn’t even matter if you meet the requirements to study your dream course.
If there are only, for example, 5000 spots available for a specific program and your APS is somewhat outside the top 5000 students who applied for the course, there is every chance that you would not be accepted to study (and this is why you always need a backup qualification to study).
It can be a tough lesson for some who find out the difference between “minimum requirements” and “competitive requirements” the hard way.
The main takeaway is that you would have to aim to exceed the required APS and apply to a number of different institutions to increase your chances of studying the course of your choice.
How to Use Your APS to Your Advantage
Now that you understand what the APS is, how can you make it work for you?
First, calculate your projected APS early like in Grade 11. This gives you time to improve in weaker subjects before your final exams.
Next, research the typical (not just minimum) APS requirements for your dream courses. Universities often publish these statistics on their websites or you can call their admissions offices directly.
If your projected APS falls short, don’t panic! Consider:
- Alternative paths to your desired qualification: Private colleges and online programs (e.g. Skills Academy, Bellview Institute of Distance Learning) can be alternatives. They often have more flexible entry requirements and still lead to qualifications.
- Bridging courses or foundation years: Some universities offer extended degrees that add a foundation year for students who just miss the APS mark. These programs give you extra academic support so you can catch up in subjects before moving into the standard curriculum.
- Starting with a lower qualification before upgrading to a degree: If you narrowly miss a degree’s APS, do the linked diploma or higher certificate first. Universities often let you upgrade into the degree after a year if you pass well enough.
- Rewrite Matric subjects: If you’re only a few points shy, consider rewriting your Matric subjects. Through this method, you can rewrite subjects you did poorly on the first time round, improving your Matric and subsequently, your APS.
Common APS Misconceptions
Let’s clear up some confusion about the APS:
“The APS is the only factor universities consider.” Not true! While important, universities also look at specific subject requirements. You might have a fantastic overall APS but still not qualify if you didn’t take the right subjects or achieve the required marks in them.
“My APS is set in stone.” Wrong again! You can improve your APS through supplementary exams or even by taking a gap year to rewrite certain subjects.
“A high APS guarantees I’ll succeed at university.” Unfortunately, academic success involves more than just good high school marks. University requires different study skills, time management, and independence.
Beyond the Numbers
While your APS is crucial for getting your foot in the university door, remember that it doesn’t define your potential or future success. Some of the world’s most successful people weren’t necessarily academic superstars.
That said, your APS is currently your most important academic metric. Treat it seriously, understand how it’s calculated for your target institutions, and work strategically to maximize it. Here are some practical tips that you can use to boost your APS:
- Know which subjects count: The APS includes your Home Language, First Additional Language, and either Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, plus three electives. Excel in these compulsory subjects – they form the core of your score.
- Choose electives wisely: Pick subjects you enjoy and that align with your intended field. If you want to study science, prioritize Physical Science or Life Science; for commerce, do Accounting or Business Studies. Scoring high in those electives can really lift your APS.
- Study consistently and practice: Set up a study schedule and stick to it. Break your work into chunks rather than cramming overnight. Regularly do past exam papers and practice tests – this builds confidence and shows you exactly how questions are asked.
- Ask for help early: If a topic is tricky, ask teachers or classmates for clarification right away. Don’t let doubts pile up. Joining a study group or getting extra tuition in weak subjects can make a big difference.
- Take care of yourself: It sounds simple, but sleep, nutrition and exercise affect how well you learn. Don’t skip meals or stay up late studying every night. A healthy brain recalls information better. Set realistic daily goals and reward yourself when you meet them.
- Set targets and track progress: Know the APS you need for your dream course and work backward. For example, if you need an APS of 25, figure out what percentage you must get in each subject to reach that. Periodically calculate your running APS (using a calculator or an online APS tool) to see if you’re on track.
The Final Word on APS
Understanding what the APS is and how it works puts you ahead of many fellow applicants. It’s not just about knowing the system, it’s about using that knowledge to make informed decisions about your academic future.
Whether you’re aiming for UNISA, Wits, UCT, or any other South African institution, your APS will play a critical role in determining your options. Calculate it early, understand what it means for your chosen path, and use it as a tool to guide your academic planning.
Written by Dylan Florence
Published on 11 May 2025