What is an APS Score?

The APS (Admission Point Score) is a numerical system used by South African universities to evaluate your performance in the final matric exams. Universities use your APS score to determine if you meet their minimum entry requirements for specific courses. Essentially, your APS score tells universities whether you qualify for admission based on your matric results.

A higher APS score means a better performance in school, which increases your chances of getting into your desired program. This score doesn’t just affect university admissions; it also plays a role in securing scholarships and bursaries. A strong APS score can help you stand out among other applicants and even improve your chances of winning awards.

Why Are APS Scores Important?

Your APS score is your ticket to university. Universities set a minimum APS score requirement for each course they offer, and if your score meets or exceeds that requirement, you’re one step closer to securing a spot in the program of your choice.

• Higher APS Score = More Opportunities: The higher your APS score, the better your chances of being accepted into competitive courses.
• Scholarships and Bursaries: A high APS score can improve your eligibility for financial assistance like scholarships and bursaries.
• Course Selection: Some courses have higher APS score requirements than others. For example, a medical degree might require a higher APS than a humanities course.

The maximum APS score you can achieve is 42. This means you’ve scored above 80% in all your subjects. However, a score of 35 and above is still considered excellent. It’s also important to note that each university has its own APS score requirements, and some may accept a lower score than others.

How is Your APS Score Calculated?

Calculating your APS score is straightforward once you understand the basic formula. Here’s how it works:

1. Convert your subject percentages to APS points: The points are assigned as follows:
   • 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
2. Select your top six or seven subjects: Your APS score will only include your top six subjects, excluding Life Orientation.
3. Add the points: After assigning points to each of your subjects, add them up to get your total APS score.

For example, let’s say your matric results look like this:

• Mathematics: 75% (6 points)
• English: 80% (7 points)
• Afrikaans: 70% (6 points)
• Life Sciences: 65% (5 points)
• Physical Sciences: 60% (5 points)
• Business Studies: 70% (6 points)
• History: 85% (7 points)

Your total APS score will be:

6 + 7 + 6 + 5 + 5 + 6 + 7 = 42

This would be the highest possible APS score, meaning you’ve done exceptionally well in your matric exams.

Which Subjects Count for APS?

When calculating your APS score, Life Orientation is excluded, but all other subjects are considered. You must take a combination of compulsory and elective subjects.

Compulsory Subjects:

1. Home Language (e.g., Afrikaans, English, IsiZulu, etc.)
2. First Additional Language (e.g., Afrikaans, English, IsiZulu, etc.)
3. Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy

Elective Subjects:

1. Accounting
2. Agricultural Management Practices
3. Business Studies
4. Computer Applications Technology (CAT)
5. Economics
6. Electrical Technology
7. Engineering Graphics and Design
8. Geography
9. History
10. Information Technology (IT)
11. Life Sciences
12. Mathematics
13. Physical Sciences
14. Tourism
15. Visual Arts

What Are High Credit Subjects?

Certain subjects are considered “high credit” because they carry more weight in determining your APS score. These include subjects like Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Accounting, and Economics. Excelling in these subjects can significantly boost your APS score.

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Understanding the Different Matric Pass Levels

Your APS score also determines which matric pass level you fall under. In South Africa, there are four main matric pass levels:

1. Bachelor’s Degree Pass (Minimum APS of 30): This is the highest pass level, and it qualifies you to apply for university to study a bachelor’s degree.
2. Diploma Pass (Minimum APS of 25): A diploma pass qualifies you to study at a university of technology.
3. Higher Certificate Pass (Minimum APS of 20): This pass level allows you to pursue a higher certificate course or online studies.
4. National Senior Certificate Pass (Minimum APS of 12): The lowest pass level, which allows entry into basic training or short courses.

APS Requirements by Matric Pass Level:

• Bachelor’s Degree Pass: 30 APS (40% in Home Language, 50% in 4 subjects)
• Diploma Pass: 25 APS (40% in Home Language, 40% in 4 subjects)
• Higher Certificate Pass: 20 APS (40% in Home Language, 40% in 2 subjects)
• Senior Certificate (Amended): 12 APS (40% in Home Language, 40% in 3 subjects)

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What Happens If My APS Score Is Low?

If your APS score falls short of the required score for a course, there are still options available:

• Foundation and Extended Programmes: Some universities offer foundation or extended programs to help students with lower APS scores improve their academic skills. For example, the University of Limpopo offers an extended Bachelor of Laws (LLB) program with a lower APS requirement (26 points).
• Alternative Access Programs: Programs like those offered by UNISA provide a path for students who don’t meet the standard APS requirements, helping them prepare for more competitive degree courses.

Can I Apply to University with Grade 11 Marks?

While most universities will require you to submit your final Grade 12 results, some institutions may consider Grade 11 results for initial selection. This usually applies to students who are in the process of completing their matric exams and haven’t yet received final results.

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Conclusion

The APS score is an essential factor in determining your eligibility for university admission in South Africa. Understanding how it works and what subjects count towards it is crucial for making informed decisions about your educational future. If your APS score is high, you’ll have many opportunities to apply for a range of courses and programs. If it’s lower, don’t worry—alternative pathways like foundation programs can help you achieve your academic goals.

To maximize your chances of university admission, it’s important to work hard in your high-credit subjects, aim for the best marks possible, and plan your subjects carefully. Remember, a solid APS score not only opens doors to higher education but can also pave the way for scholarships, bursaries, and even career opportunities.

By understanding the APS system and how to calculate your score, you’re one step closer to pursuing your dreams of higher education in South Africa.