Choosing a business management qualification starts with understanding the academic requirements used by educational institutions to assess applications. One of the most important academic requirements in South Africa is the Admission Point Score (APS).
Many learners are unsure about how APS works, which subjects count toward it, and if their marks are sufficient to secure admission. This confusion often leads to missed opportunities or delays in starting further studies.
For individuals who have passed matric, working professionals, and mid-career learners, knowing how the APS score is calculated helps with better planning. It allows you to select the right qualification level, whether that is a higher certificate, a postgraduate diploma, or a doctoral programme. It also helps you understand the alternative options if your APS score is lower than expected.
In this article, we explore the business management APS score requirements, subjects considered for APS, how the score impacts your admission, its calculation & tips for improving it.
Table of Contents
What Is The Business Management APS Score?
The APS score is a numeric measure of your final matric results used by South African higher education institutions to decide if you meet admission standards. For business management programmes, APS shows whether your subject mix and marks meet minimum thresholds for the chosen qualification.
Knowing your APS score early helps you choose the right programme and decide if you need a bridging or entry-level option. Universities and colleges use the APS to compare students in a fair way, especially when many people apply for a limited number of seats.
The following pointers will give you a detailed overview of APS basics:
- APS is typically calculated from six school subjects
- Life Orientation is not counted in the APS score
- Each subject earns points based on your final marks or achievement level
- The highest standard APS for six subjects is usually 42 points (6 subjects × 7 points)
- Some institutions may give extra importance, or different weightings, to certain subjects
Read more on What Is APS Score? Understand The Basics.
Business Management APS Score Requirements
APS score requirements vary by level: higher certificate, diploma, postgraduate, or doctoral study. For example, entry to the Higher Certificate in Business Management (HCBM) programme at Regenesys Business School requires a matric certificate or diploma pass, as well as competence in core areas.
Some higher-level programmes require a degree and work experience rather than an APS alone. Prospective students should check the relevant programme pages for the exact threshold, as the APS is only one part of the admissions process.
Here are some common APS entry levels used by institutions:
- Higher Certificate Level: Basic matric pass or certificate, and minimum subject competencies.
- Undergraduate Diplomas and Degrees: A specific APS threshold plus required subject levels.
- Postgraduate Diplomas and Doctoral Programmes: Prior qualifications, academic transcripts and experience matter more than APS score.
- Some programmes allow recognised bridging or credit-bearing modules for applicants who fall short.
- Always confirm current APS requirements with the institution before applying.
Read more on What is Business Management & How To Master It?
Subjects Considered For Calculating APS Score For Business Management
For most business management programmes, six subjects are used to calculate your APS score. This normally includes a language subject, Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, and four other recognised NSC subjects. Most institutions expect you to have a good competency in English and in a quantitative subject like Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.
Life Orientation is usually not included in the APS total, though it still appears on your certificate. Make sure to check your preferred programme to see which subjects are most important.
The following are the commonly required subjects:
- Home or first additional language
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
- Accounting, Economics or Business Studies
- Two further recognised NSC subjects from the applicant’s final results
Read more on Business Management Subjects in South Africa: A Guide to Courses, Careers, and Qualifications.
How APS Score Impacts Your Admission?
A higher APS score improves your chances of getting into popular programmes with limited seats. Some institutions also require you to achieve minimum marks in subjects like Mathematics or English, in addition to your total APS score.
For postgraduate or doctoral programmes at Regenesys Business School, more focus is placed on your previous qualifications and work experience. However, a strong APS earlier in your studies can still show steady academic performance. The APS score is important for admission, but it is not always the only requirement.
Below are the various ways by which APS affects applications:
- It determines whether an application proceeds to faculty consideration
- Acts as an initial filter for large applicant pools
- May be combined with interviews, portfolios or CV review for final selection
- Influences scholarship or bursary eligibility in some cases
- Low APS typically prompts applicants to consider upgrading or bridging options
Read more on How Much Should My APS Score Be For Higher Education?
Eligibility, Scholarships & Consequences Of Low APS
The eligibility requirements vary by qualification level and the institution offering the programme. Some scholarships and bursaries may require a minimum APS score or excellent results in specific subjects.
If your APS score is lower than needed, you can still explore options such as upgrading your matric marks or completing a bridging certificate. You can also choose an alternative entry route, like a Higher Certificate.
A low APS may limit direct entry into degree studies, but it does not stop you from building a career in business. Many students move forward through other qualifications or by gaining work experience.
If your APS score is low, there are several steps you can take:
- Upgrade matric subject marks at an accredited centre
- Enrol in bridging or foundational programmes that lead to degree entry
- Consider the Higher Certificate route and credit accumulation
- Apply for merit-based or needs-based scholarships that consider factors beyond APS
- Seek academic counselling from the institution
APS Calculation For Business Management – Step-by-Step Guide
The APS score is calculated in a few clearly defined steps. First, your final subject marks are converted into achievement levels. Each level is then assigned APS points, typically between 1 and 7.
You add the points for your best six subjects, excluding Life Orientation. Some institutions may use slightly different point tables or give more importance to certain subjects, so it is important to check the APS table used by your chosen institution.
The following are the APS score calculation steps:
- List all final NSC (matric) subject percentages.
- Convert each percentage to the achievement rating table used by universities.
- Assign APS points (for example, 80-100% = 7 points)
- Select your best six subjects (exclude Life Orientation)
- Add the points to get your total APS score.
For example, consider a student with these matric results: English at 72%, Mathematics at 65%, Accounting at 58%, Economics at 61%, Life Orientation at 80%, and Business Studies at 74%. These marks are converted to the 1 to 7 APS scale, and Life Orientation is not included in the calculation.
The points for the best six subjects are then added to get the total APS score. This score can show whether the student qualifies for various business management study options. However, it is always important to check the exact entry requirements for the chosen programme.
Tips To Improve Your APS Score For Business Management
Small improvements in your subject marks can raise your APS score and make your application stronger. If possible, consider upgrading your subjects. You can rewrite matric subjects through the Department of Basic Education or accredited centres to improve your marks.
Pay special attention to APS subjects that matter most for business programmes, such as Mathematics and Accounting. If your APS is not high enough, you can also look at bridging or foundation certificates that help you move into undergraduate study.
Careful study planning, extra tuition, and practising with past exam papers can all help you get better results and increase your APS points.
Read more on How To Calculate APS Score? Key Steps for Accurate Results.
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Conclusion
Understanding the business management APS score helps you choose the right entry route and plan your studies. Whether you aim for the Higher Certificate in Business Management, the Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management or the Doctor of Business Management at Regenesys Business School, check both APS and programme-specific requirements.
If your APS score is below a specific cut-off, consider upgrading marks or other options. Explore the Regenesys Education programme pages for detailed information regarding each programme.
Contact us to speak with a career adviser for expert guidance.
FAQs
What is the Business Management APS score?
It is the Admission Point Score based on your final matric results, which is used to assess entry to business management programmes.
Which grade is needed in Business Management?
Minimum subject grades vary by programme. Many programmes ask for specific levels in English and a quantitative subject.
What is the minimum APS required to study Business Management in South Africa?
The minimum APS score varies by institution and qualification level. Check the specific programme page for exact numbers.
Can I study Business Management with a low APS score?
Yes, alternative pathways include the Higher Certificate route, upgrading your matric marks or enrolling in a bridging programme.
How is the APS score calculated for Business Management programmes?
The APS score is calculated by converting subject percentages to points, selecting the top six subjects (excluding Life Orientation), and summing the points.
