Calculate your university Admission Point Score (APS) from your matric subject percentages using your best six subjects.
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APS Formula
APS = L1 + L2 + L3 + L4 + L5 + L6
Where:
- APS is your total Admission Point Score (maximum of 42).
- L1 to L6 are the achievement levels (1 to 7) of your best six subjects.
Each subject level is found by converting your final National Senior Certificate percentage for that subject into the 7-level scale. You convert all of your subjects to levels, then add the six highest. Most universities exclude Life Orientation from this total, so the standard method uses your best six subjects other than Life Orientation. Some universities include Life Orientation or count it at a reduced weight, so check the rules for the institution you are applying to.
Percentage to Level Conversion and Score Interpretation
Use the first table to convert each subject percentage into an achievement level. Use the second table to interpret your total APS.
| Percentage | Achievement Level | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 80 to 100 | Level 7 | 7 |
| 70 to 79 | Level 6 | 6 |
| 60 to 69 | Level 5 | 5 |
| 50 to 59 | Level 4 | 4 |
| 40 to 49 | Level 3 | 3 |
| 30 to 39 | Level 2 | 2 |
| 0 to 29 | Level 1 | 1 |
| APS Range | Typical Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 35 to 42 | Qualifies for most degree programmes, including competitive ones. |
| 30 to 34 | Meets entry level for many degree programmes. |
| 24 to 29 | Meets minimum requirements for several diplomas and some degrees. |
| Below 24 | Below the typical minimum for degree study. Check programme specific rules. |
Example Problems
Example 1. A student scores Home Language 76, First Additional Language 64, Mathematics 71, Physical Science 58, Life Sciences 62, and Geography 55. The levels are 6, 5, 6, 4, 5, and 4. Adding these six levels gives an APS of 30.
Example 2. A student scores Home Language 82, First Additional Language 70, Mathematical Literacy 49, Business Studies 66, Accounting 73, History 60, and Tourism 54. Converting to levels gives 7, 6, 3, 5, 6, 5, and 4. The best six levels are 7, 6, 6, 5, 5, and 4, for an APS of 33. The lowest level, 3 for Mathematical Literacy, is dropped because only the best six count.
FAQ
Does Life Orientation count toward your APS? Most universities exclude Life Orientation from the standard APS calculation and use your best six other subjects. Some institutions include it or count it at half value, so confirm the policy of the university you are applying to.
What is the maximum APS you can get? The maximum is 42, which is six subjects each at Level 7 (80 percent or above).
Is a higher APS always enough to be admitted? No. A high APS helps, but many programmes also require specific subjects at minimum levels, such as a set Mathematics or language level. Meeting the overall APS does not guarantee a place if the subject requirements are not met.