Thinking about university but not sure if your marks make the cut? You’re not alone. Thousands of South African students wrestle with the same question every year: “Do my matric results qualify me for my dream course?” That’s where your APS (Admission Point Score) comes in i.e your ticket to higher education opportunities.
Your APS is basically a points-based system universities use to decide if you’re a good fit for their programs. Different universities have their own ways of calculating it, but the basic idea is the same – turning your matric marks into a single number that determines your academic fate.
It’s actually pretty straightforward to figure out, so let’s break it down step-by-step (without the jargon overload).
How to Calculate Your APS Score
Let’s get down to business. Most South African universities follow a similar approach, though there are some variations between institutions.
The general method to calculate your APS score works like this:
- You take your six or seven best matric subjects (depending on the university)
- Convert each percentage to a point value using their conversion table; and finally
- Add up these points to get your final APS score
Here’s what the conversion typically looks like:
- 80-100%: 7 points
- 70-79%: 6 points
- 60-69%: 5 points
- 50-59%: 4 points
- 40-49%: 3 points
- 30-39%: 2 points
- 0-29%: 1 point
Let’s say your top six subjects look something like this:
- English: 75% (6 points)
- Maths: 69% (5 points)
- Your Second Language: 65% (5 points)
- Physical Science: 62% (5 points)
- Life Sciences: 78% (6 points)
- Geography: 54% (4 points)
- History: 71% (6 points)
You add them all up and you’ve got a grand APS total of 37. Not bad at all, right?
Keep the following in mind though: Life Orientation is usually not counted by most institutions. So even if you got a brilliant mark, it might not contribute to your APS total. And always check the admission requirements of the course you’re applying for.
What is Considered a Good APS?
This is where things get interesting (and a bit frustrating). There’s no universal “good” APS score because it depends entirely on what you want to study.
For example, some certificate or diploma courses only require a minimum APS between 15 to 23 while undergraduate degrees usually (at a bare minimum) starts with an APS of 20 and above (depending on the field of study).
Have you checked the specific requirements for your chosen program? Universities publish these on their websites, and they can change from year to year, so always double-check the latest information.
What If My APS Isn’t High Enough?
Scored lower on your APS than you’d hoped for? Don’t worry, it’s not the end of the world. You’ve got alternative learning options to consider as well, like:
- Considering Extended Programs: Many universities offer extended versions of their degrees with lower APS requirements. You’ll take longer to graduate, but you’ll get there!
- Starting with a Certificate or Diploma: Begin with a qualification that has lower entry requirements, then use it as a stepping stone to a degree.
- Trying a Different Institution: Each university has different APS requirements. If Unisa’s bar is too high, for example, another institution might be more accessible.
- Improving Your Marks: Consider rewriting some subjects through the Second Chance Matric Programme or Adult Matric.
- Exploring Private Colleges: Some private institutions have more flexible entry requirements, where the APS requirements might not even be necessary to successfully enroll.
Remember, your APS is important, but it doesn’t define your potential. There are plenty of students who started with modest scores and yet, went on to achieve academic excellence.
Beyond the Numbers
To calculate your APS score is crucial, but don’t forget that some programs have additional requirements. Here are some tips that you can keep in your back pocket when it comes to the APS:
- Always check the specific APS requirement for the course and institution you’re applying to. They can differ widely.
- Be aware of subject-specific requirements since some courses need more than just a high APS.
- Don’t assume Life Orientation counts. When in doubt, ask.
- Use official APS calculators or chat to a student advisor. They can save you time and stress.
Have you calculated your APS score yet? If you’re still uncertain about the process or your options, university admissions offices are usually happy to help and don’t hesitate to reach out to them directly with your questions.
Good luck with your academic journey! With the right planning and determination, you’ll find your way to the qualification that’s perfect for you.
Also Read: Why APS Score Matters for University Admission
Written by Dylan Florence
Published on 18 May 2025