APS Score For Teaching In South Africa | Entry Requirements

Every classroom in South Africa relies on dedicated teachers. They support learning at every stage, from early schooling to higher grades. Because teaching is a profession with strict standards, universities assess applicants to ensure they are prepared for its demands.

One of the main requirements for teaching is the APS score. This is what helps institutions consistently evaluate matric results. The APS score for teaching also affects which institutions you can apply to and whether you meet the entry level for different teaching phases.

In this article, we explain how APS works, the minimum points required to study teaching in South Africa, and how you can improve your score for better chances at admissions.

What is an APS Score and Why is it Important for Teaching Careers in South Africa?

APS stands for Admission Point Score. It is used by South African universities to assess admission eligibility. It is calculated using a student’s matric results. The score helps institutions decide whether a student qualifies for a specific programme.

For teaching careers, APS helps institutions determine if students are ready for higher education. APS score for teaching gives universities an early view of a student’s academic ability.

Below are the main reasons APS is important for teaching admissions.

• Academic Readiness: Universities use APS to confirm that applicants can cope with degree-level study and professional training.
• Subject-Specific Requirements: Teaching programmes often require minimum results in English, Mathematics, or Mathematical Literacy.
• Creates a Fair Selection Process: APS standardises results across schools and provinces in South Africa.
• Competitive Placement: Due to high demand for teaching courses, a higher APS is often necessary to secure a spot.

Understanding the APS Calculation System

The APS calculation system converts your matric results into a points-based score. While universities may differ slightly, the method is consistent across South Africa. APS is calculated using your best six matric subjects. Each subject mark is converted into points based on your percentage range.

Understanding the calculation process is important if you want to pursue a teaching qualification. The APS score for teaching depends not only on your average but also on subject performance.

Here is how APS is calculated for most teaching applications:

• Select the best six matric subjects. Life Orientation is usually excluded unless a course states otherwise.
• Convert each subject mark into APS points using set percentage ranges.
• Add the points from all six subjects to get the final APS score.

The APS points are usually assigned as follows:

NSC Percentage	APS Score
80-100%	7
70-79%	6
60-69%	5
50-59%	4
40-49%	3
30-39%	2
0-29%	1

Here you can read more about How To Calculate APS Score?

Minimum APS Requirements For Teaching in South Africa

The minimum APS score to study Education in South Africa varies by institution and the programme you choose to study. There is no single national cutoff, but most universities’ requirements fall under the same range. As teaching programmes are in high demand, the APS score for teaching is often higher than for general diplomas.

Here are the APS requirements according to primary, secondary, or specialised teaching programmes:

APS Requirements for Primary School Teaching

Primary school teaching includes the Foundation and Intermediate Phases. These programmes focus on early learning and literacy. The APS requirements for teaching at the primary level depend on whether you choose a diploma or degree pathway.

• Diploma in Education programmes usually require an APS of 18- 20.
• Bachelor of Education (Foundation or Intermediate Phase) degrees typically require an APS of 26-28.
• Some distance institutions may accept a lower APS of around 23, depending on subject results and availability.

APS Requirements for Secondary School Teaching

Secondary school teaching prepares educators for Grades 8-12. These programmes require depth in subject matter and academic strength. The APS requirements for teaching at this level are generally higher.

• Most universities require an APS of 26-28 for a four-year BEd degree.
• Some institutions may consider APS scores of 21-22 if subject requirements are strong.
• Mathematics, Sciences, or language subjects often have minimum percentage requirements.

APS Requirements for Specialised Teaching Programmes

Specialised teaching includes areas such as Mathematics, Sciences, Technology, and inclusive education. These programmes focus on scarce skills. The APS requirements for teaching in specialised fields are higher due to academic complexity.

• Many universities require an APS of 28-34 or higher.
• Mathematics and Physical Science marks are often prioritised.
• Limited spots mean higher APS scores improve selection chances.

Read more information about Matric Pass Levels Required for BEd Qualifications

Why Does the APS Score Matter for Teaching?

APS plays a role beyond admission. It reflects academic preparedness for training and classroom responsibility. Teaching requires subject knowledge, communication skills, and structured thinking. APS score for teaching helps universities assess whether applicants can meet these demands. 

Here is why APS matters for Studying Education in South Africa:

• Helps Students Complete the Course: It supports academic success. Students with adequate APS scores are more likely to complete teaching qualifications.
• Checks Basic Learning Skills: Teaching courses require good reading, writing, and basic thinking skills. APS helps universities confirm that students have these skills before admission.
• Expands Study and University Options: A higher APS score allows students to apply to more universities and competitive teaching programmes.

After understanding the significance of APS in teaching, here you can read information about Teaching Courses in South Africa in 2026

How to Improve Your APS Score for Teaching?

Many students do not meet APS requirements on their first attempt. But there are many ways to improve your score. Improving your APS score for teaching requires planning and subject focus rather than retaking everything.

Below are effective ways to increase your APS.

• Focus on Important Subjects: English and Mathematics are key subjects for teaching courses. Improving marks in these subjects can improve your APS.
• Rewrite Specific Matric Subjects: Rewrite the matric subjects in which your score matters more significantly to improve APS points.
• Use a Bridging Qualification: Apply for a Higher Certificate as a bridging pathway if your APS is below degree level.
• Understand How APS Is Calculated: Ensure a clear understanding of the APS calculation system so that effort is targeted on impactful subjects.

Read more information about What Is APS Score? Understand The Basics

APS Score Requirements Across Top Universities in South Africa

APS requirements differ by institution. Universities set their own thresholds based on capacity and programme demand. The APS score for teaching at top institutions generally falls within a narrow range.

Here are examples from major South African universities. These figures may change annually based on demand.

University	APS Score demand
University of Johannesburg	26+
North-West University	26
University of South Africa (UNISA)	23+
University of Pretoria	28
University of Venda	26

Here you can read about Regenesys BEd requirements 

Common Mistakes Students Make with APS for Teaching Applications

Many applicants misunderstand APS requirements, resulting in missed opportunities. These mistakes are avoidable with proper information. Understanding the APS requirements for teaching reduces application errors.

Here are some of the most Common mistakes students make:

• Including Life Orientation in APS calculations when it is excluded.
• Applying to programmes without meeting subject-specific requirements.
• Assuming all universities use the same APS requirements.
• Not considering alternative pathways when APS is slightly below requirements.

Regenesys Teaching Qualifications

Regenesys School of Education offers an alternative pathway for you to pursue teaching qualifications. Unlike many institutions, Regenesys does not require an APS score for admission to its teaching programmes. Instead, eligibility is assessed through qualification level and individual competencies.

Regenesy’s BEd admission requirements include:

• A matric with a Bachelor’s pass or an NQF Level 4 equivalent.
• A relevant NQF Level 5 or 6 qualification, where applicable.
• Competence in Mathematics, English, and communication skills at NQF Level 4.
• Basic computer literacy and access to learning resources.

Explore Our Other Programmes

Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)	Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)	Doctor of Business Management (DBM)
Higher Certificate in Public Management (HCPM)	Higher Certificate in Business Management (HCBM)
Bachelor of Public Management (BPM)	Master of Public Management (MPM)
Postgraduate Diploma in Data Science (PDDS)	Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management	Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Marketing
BCom in Banking and Financial Services	Bachelor of Accounting Science (BCOMPT)

Conclusion

The APS score for teaching is an important requirement for most teaching programmes in South Africa. It determines which courses and universities you can apply to. APS requirements vary by institute and teaching phase. Primary, secondary, and specialised programmes each have their own APS requirement criteria. Knowing these requirements helps students plan ahead.

If your APS does not meet traditional entry criteria, alternative pathways exist to improve it and be eligible for admission. Making informed choices about that ensures a clear and achievable route into a teaching career.

For more information, check out our website

FAQs