Minimum APS Score for a Bachelor’s Pass: What You Need to Know

Figuring out university admissions can feel like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces. If you’re eyeing a Bachelor’s degree at one of South Africa’s top universities, you’ve probably come across those three little letters: A. P. S. 

But what exactly is the APS, what’s the minimum APS for a Bachelor’s pass, and how do you make sure you’ve got what it takes?

What is the APS Score?

Before diving into minimums, let’s clarify what we’re talking about. APS stands for Admission Point Score, a standardized way for universities to evaluate your academic performance. Think of it as your academic currency when applying to university.

Each university calculates this slightly differently (more on that in a bit), but the basic idea is to assign points to your matric subject grades and add them up. The higher your score, the better your chances of getting into your chosen program.

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The Magic Number: Minimum APS for Bachelor's Degrees

Here’s the plain truth: there isn’t a single, universal minimum APS for a Bachelor’s pass across all South African universities. However, most of the top universities require a minimum APS of 26 to 30 points just to be considered for Bachelor’s degree programs.

But hold on, it’s not that simple! This minimum is often just the starting point. Many competitive programs set the bar much higher and sometimes, even meeting these minimums isn’t enough due to limited spots and high competition.

Top 10 Universities and Their APS Requirements

Here are what some of the top universities in South Africa say about what requirements are usually needed when it comes to the APS and admission requirements in general with a Bachelor’s Degree for the 2025 academic year. 

They usually vary faculty by faculty, so the APS can be as low as 20 and as high as 42:

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How Universities Calculate Your APS

Here’s where things get a bit tricky – each university has its own formula for calculating your APS. Some universities count your best six subjects, excluding Life Orientation, while others might include it or have specific subject requirements.

This means your APS could be different at each university you apply to! Is it frustrating? Of course, but understanding how each university calculates scores helps you target your applications more effectively.

Beyond the Minimum APS for a Bachelor's Pass

Meeting the minimum APS for a Bachelor’s pass is just part of the admission equation. Universities also consider:

  1. Specific subject requirements: Many programs require certain grades in program-relevant subjects. For example, engineering programs typically need strong math and physical science marks.
  2. National Benchmark Tests (NBTs): Some universities require these additional assessments to gauge your academic potential.
  3. Faculty-specific criteria: Certain faculties might have additional requirements like portfolios for design courses or interviews for medical school.
  4. Extended programs: If your APS falls slightly below the minimum, some universities offer extended degree programs that add an extra year of foundational studies.

Tips to Boost Your APS Score

What if your predicted APS is falling short? Don’t panic! Here are some practical tips to help improve your APS:

  • Focus on your strengths: Since many universities count your best subjects, put extra effort into those where you’re already performing well.
  • Consider subject choices carefully: Some subjects might be weighted more heavily for certain programs.
  • Look into supplementary exams: If you marginally miss the grade you need in a specific subject, supplementary exams might help bridge the gap.
  • Explore alternative entry routes: Foundation phases or extended programs can provide pathways if your APS isn’t quite there.
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Making Sense of It All

Trying to keep track of different APS requirements can make your head spin. The key is to start early. Calculate your potential APS based on your Grade 11 results and mock exams. This gives you a realistic picture of where you stand and which universities and programs might be within reach.

Remember that the minimum APS for a Bachelor’s pass is just that – a minimum. Aim higher to give yourself more options and better chances, especially for competitive programs.

The journey to university isn’t always straightforward, and the APS system can seem complicated at first glance. But understanding the minimum APS for a Bachelor’s pass at your target universities puts you one step ahead in the application game.

Also Read: How to Calculate Your APS Score


Written by Dylan Florence
Published on 25 May 2025