Subject Requirements to Study Law in South Africa: High School to LLB Explained

Many students in South Africa dream of becoming lawyers but are often confused about what school subjects and qualifications are needed to get there. The truth is, while there are no rigid compulsory subjects, universities do have specific entry requirements for law degrees. Understanding the subject requirements to study law in South Africa can help you plan ahead, choose the right subjects in school, and improve your chances of getting into a law programme. 

In this article, we will explore the high school subject requirements to study law in South Africa, the minimum university admission requirements, subject choices for LLB, pathways to criminal law, and how institutions like Regenesys can guide your legal journey.

Understanding the Law Degree Pathway in South Africa

Before looking at the subject requirements to study law in South Africa, it is important to understand the academic pathway. The main qualification is the Bachelor of Laws (LLB), which can be completed over four years full-time or five to six years part-time. Some universities also allow students to first complete a BA or BCom degree with law subjects before doing a two-year LLB.

The LLB equips students with knowledge of constitutional law, criminal law, contract law, property law, and more. It is the recognised route to becoming an attorney, advocate, or legal advisor in South Africa. Admission into this programme depends on meeting the right subject requirements to study law in South Africa, good grades, and strong language proficiency.

High School Subject Requirements for Studying Law

One of the most common questions students ask is: What subjects should I choose in Grade 10 to study law later? Technically, there are high school subject requirements to study law in South Africa. However, certain subjects strengthen your application and make your university studies easier.

Here are the subjects needed to study law at a university in South Africa:

• English: Since law relies heavily on reading, writing, and critical thinking, English is the most important subject. A strong pass is required by most universities.
• History: History helps students develop analytical skills, an understanding of society, and the ability to form arguments – all vital for law studies.
• Business Studies: This subject is useful for students who may later pursue commercial or corporate law.
• Life Orientation: Though not counted towards APS in all cases, it provides skills in ethics, communication, and personal development.
• Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: While not compulsory, Mathematics strengthens logical reasoning, which is key in law.

By focusing on these subjects, learners set a strong foundation for meeting the subject requirements to study law in South Africa and later specialising in areas such as criminal or corporate law.

Read more on What Subjects Are Needed to Become a Lawyer? here!

Minimum Admission Requirements for Law Degrees

When applying to study law, universities consider more than just the subjects you took in high school. They assess your overall academic performance, language proficiency, and reasoning abilities. Meeting the subject requirements to study law in South Africa involves demonstrating that you have a strong foundation in English, logical thinking, and communication skills, all of which are essential for success in the LLB programme.

Here are the standard minimum requirements:

• Matric with a Bachelor’s Pass or NQF Level 4 Equivalent Qualification: Applicants must have successfully completed secondary education or an equivalent qualification recognised in South Africa.
• English Proficiency: For local students, English 1st language at 50% or English 2nd language at 60% is required. International students may need A-levels or a higher-level pass equivalent to 26 APS.
• Mathematics Competency: While not always compulsory, basic competence in Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy is recommended.
• Communication Skills: Demonstrated competence in written and oral communication is essential for understanding and interpreting legal texts.

Read on What You Need to Know About South African LLB Law Admission Requirements here!

Subject Recommendations for LLB Studies

Once admitted, students enter the LLB degree. Here, the focus shifts from high school subjects to university-level modules. Many students confuse the subjects needed to study LLB in South Africa with high school subject requirements. The reality is that at university, you will be studying a set of core modules regardless of your school subjects.

Here are some examples of core LLB modules:

• Constitutional Law: Focuses on the rights, freedoms, and laws that govern South Africa.
• Criminal Law: Examines crimes, punishment, and justice in society.
• Law of Contract: Teaches how agreements are formed and enforced.
• Labour Law: Explores workplace relations and employee rights.
• Legal Interpretation: Trains students in reading and applying statutes.

While you cannot choose high school subjects to mirror these exactly, subjects like English, History, and Business Studies prepare you to succeed in them. This is why subject requirements to study law in South Africa focus on building academic strength rather than prescribing specific school subjects.

Read more on Exploring Law Subjects: What You Need to Know Before Starting Your LLB? here!

Subjects Useful for Specialisations (Including Criminal Law)

Many students are particularly interested in criminal law and often ask: What subjects are needed to study criminal law in South Africa? The truth is that criminal law is part of the LLB programme, so there are no separate high school subjects just for it. However, certain subjects do give a strong foundation:

• History: Helps understand justice systems and past legal decisions.
• Life Sciences or Psychology: Provide insights into human behaviour, which is useful for criminal cases.
• English: Strengthens writing and debating skills required in criminal law practice.

At university level, criminal law is compulsory in the LLB, and students later have the option to specialise further during postgraduate studies. By aligning subject choices early, learners can prepare themselves for this exciting and challenging field.

Read on Exploring the Different Specialisations in Bachelor of Laws (LLB) here!

Alternative Pathways and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Not everyone follows the traditional path of completing matric and then enrolling at university. Some learners may not have the exact subjects or APS points needed, but that does not mean the dream of studying law is over. This is where Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) comes into play.

RPL allows individuals with relevant work experience in business, public administration, or legal-related fields to be assessed for entry into law programmes, even if they do not fully meet the subject requirements to study law in South Africa. It acknowledges that valuable learning and skills can be gained outside of the formal classroom environment.

This means that mature students, professionals, and career changers still have the opportunity to pursue legal studies. The pathway demonstrates that access to law is not limited to school leavers only, but also open to those with proven knowledge and experience.

Choosing the Right Institution for Law Studies

While understanding subject requirements to study law in South Africa is crucial, the institution you choose plays an equally important role in your success. The right law school provides not only academic qualifications but also the support, resources, and opportunities needed to grow as a legal professional.

Here are some key factors to consider when choosing where to study law:

• Accreditation: Ensure the institution is fully recognised and its LLB degree is accredited in South Africa.
• Teaching Quality: Look for a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
• Learning Flexibility: Check if the institution offers full-time, part-time, or online study options to suit different lifestyles.
• Reputation and Alumni Network: Institutions with strong reputations and active alumni often open more career opportunities.

Beyond meeting the subject requirements to study law in South Africa, your choice of institution will shape your learning experience and career readiness.

At Regenesys Law School, we offer a range of law programmes designed to prepare students for meaningful careers in the legal sector. Our Bachelor of Laws (LLB) programme is structured to provide both a solid academic foundation and practical skills, ensuring graduates are workplace-ready and equipped to thrive in diverse areas of law. With flexible learning formats and a future-focused curriculum, Regenesys makes legal education accessible for aspiring lawyers across South Africa.

Read more on How to Choose the Right Law School for Your Bachelor of Laws? Here!

Career Opportunities After Meeting Subject Requirements

Once you have completed your LLB, a wide range of rewarding career paths becomes available. Law is not limited to working in courts or large firms; it extends into education, media, research, and advisory roles. Meeting the subject requirements to study law in South Africa is just the first step towards a diverse set of professional opportunities.

Here are some potential careers after completing your law degree:

• Assistant Prosecution Officer: Works under senior prosecutors to assist in preparing and presenting criminal cases in court. This role offers practical exposure to the justice system.
• Law Professor or Teacher: Educates future law students at universities or colleges, contributing to the development of the next generation of legal professionals.
• Legal Assistant: Supports attorneys or advocates with case research, drafting documents, and client communication, making it a valuable entry-level role.
• Legal Journalist: Reports on legal issues, court proceedings, and policy changes, helping the public understand complex legal matters.
• Public Prosecutor: Represents the state in criminal trials, ensuring justice is served and laws are upheld.

These roles highlight the diversity of career paths available in the legal field. By carefully planning your education and meeting the subject requirements to study law in South Africa, you can build a career that matches your interests and ambitions.

Conclusion

Understanding the subject requirements to study law in South Africa is an important first step for anyone considering a legal career. While there are no strict compulsory subjects, excelling in English and choosing recommended subjects such as History or Business Studies can strengthen both your university application and future studies. Once admitted, the LLB degree equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a wide range of careers in law, from courtroom practice to academia and beyond.

At Regenesys Law School, our LLB programme is designed to combine academic excellence with practical application, preparing students for success in South Africa’s evolving legal environment. If you are passionate about law and ready to begin your journey, now is the time to take the next step. 

Enrol in the Regenesys LLB programme today and start shaping your future in law.

Subject Requirements to Study Law in South Africa – FAQ