National APS Calculator & Institution Finder
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MatricLink Diagnostic Report
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Frequently Asked Questions About APS Scores
What is an APS Score and how is it calculated?
An Admission Point Score (APS) is a grading system used by South African universities to determine if a matriculant qualifies for a specific degree, diploma, or higher certificate program. The score is calculated by converting your National Senior Certificate (NSC) percentage marks into point levels from 1 to 7. Your top six subjects, excluding Life Orientation for most universities, are added together to give you a total score out of 42.
How do National Senior Certificate (NSC) percentages map to APS levels?
The Department of Basic Education utilizes a standardized 7-level scale for matric results. A mark between 80% and 100% yields an APS Level 7 (Outstanding achievement). 70% to 79% gives a Level 6 (Meritorious), 60% to 69% gives a Level 5 (Substantial), 50% to 59% gives a Level 4 (Adequate), 40% to 49% gives a Level 3 (Moderate), 30% to 39% gives a Level 2 (Elementary), and anything below 30% is a Level 1 (Not achieved).
Does Life Orientation count towards my APS score?
Whether Life Orientation (LO) is counted depends entirely on the specific university's admission policy. Institutions like the University of Johannesburg (UJ), the University of Pretoria (UP), and the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) strictly exclude Life Orientation from their baseline calculation. However, other institutions like Wits, TUT, and DUT do include LO or assign specific fractional points to it if you achieve a level 5 or higher. It is highly recommended to check your points both with and without LO using our diagnostic tool above.
What happens if my APS score is too low for university admission?
If your point score falls below the traditional degree requirement of 26 points, you still have excellent higher education options. Many public universities and universities of technology offer National Diplomas which typically require between 18 and 22 points. Alternatively, you can enroll in a 1-year Higher Certificate program (starting at 15 points). Passing a Higher Certificate allows you to upgrade your academic profile and apply for a full Bachelor's Degree the following academic year.