The Admission Point Score (APS) is a key component of the South African education system. It measures students’ academic performance based on their final school exam results. This score is very important for students aiming to enrol into universities. The APS allows universities to compare students from different schools and backgrounds fairly. If you want to go to university, understanding your APS is essential because it directly affects your chances of getting into your desired programme. The APS system helps universities choose the right students and ensures that everyone meets the necessary academic standards.
In this article, we will discuss what the APS score is, why it is so important in South Africa, and how understanding it can help you. Knowing the meaning of your APS score, working to improve it, and recognising its impact on your career opportunities can open many doors for your future, making it an essential part of your educational and professional journey.
Table of Contents
What Is APS Score?
APS (Admission Points Score) is a number based on a student’s final matric results. They are used to determine if the student can get admission into a university or college. Each subject in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) has a point value depending on the student’s grade. The APS is the total of these points, showing how well the student did overall. This score helps universities and colleges compare all applicants fairly, no matter where they went to school.
The APS system was created to facilitate the comparison of high school results and simplify the university application process in South Africa. Before APS, different universities had different approaches for facilitating student admissions. The APS system has organised the system to be more precise and fair by providing clear measures of academic performance.
A student’s Admission Point Score is important for several reasons:
- University Admission: It helps determine whether a student will be considered for university admission or not.
- Chances of Admission: The better a potential student’s APS score, the greater their chances of getting into university.
- Post-School Options: It provides students with some direction regarding their options after school.
Overview Of The APS Score Table
The APS score table is a helpful tool for converting grades into points, making it easier to understand and compare academic performance. Usually shown as a chart or table, it details how different grades translate into APS points, often breaking it down by subject and level. This table helps students learn how to calculate their APS scores and see their academic standing clearly, while educators can use it to assess and compare results more effectively. Take a look at the table below to see how it works (Source).
| Matric Subject Symbol | Marks Obtained in Matric Exam | APS (Admission Point Score) | Achievement Description |
| A+ | 80 – 100% | 7 | Outstanding |
| A | 70 – 79% | 6 | Meritorious |
| B | 60 – 69% | 5 | Substantial |
| C | 50 – 59% | 4 | Moderate |
| D | 40 – 49% | 3 | Adequate |
| E | 30 – 39% | 2 | Elementary |
| F | 0 – 29% | 1 | Not Achieved |
How To Calculate APS Score?
Calculating your Admission Point Score (APS) is important for determining whether you qualify for university programmes. The APS system helps South African universities see how well you did in school by turning your matric grades into points. This simple process helps you understand whether you meet the requirements for different programmes. Use this guide to easily calculate your APS score and see which university options might be available to you.
Step 1: Collect the final grades for all the subjects you completed in your matric year.
Step 2: Use the APS scale to turn each grade into points. Here’s how the scale works (Source):
- 7 (90-100%) = 7 points
- 6 (80-89%) = 6 points
- 5 (70-79%) = 5 points
- 4 (60-69%) = 4 points
- 3 (50-59%) = 3 points
- 2 (40-49%) = 2 points
- 1 (30-39%) = 1 point
- 0 (Below 30%) = 0 points
Step 3: Add the points from all your subjects to get your total APS score.
Example Calculations:
Let’s look at an example to see how it works.
For a student with these grades:
English: 6 (80-89%) = 6 points
Mathematics: 5 (70-79%) = 5 points
Physical Science: 4 (60-69%) = 4 points
Life Orientation: 7 (90-100%) = 7 points
To find the APS score:
6 (English) + 5 (Mathematics) + 4 (Physical Science) + 7 (Life Orientation) = 22 points.
“Explore What you can Study with your APS Score”
How To Check APS Scores?
Students can check their Admission Point Scores through several methods, including online portals, school reports, and university admissions offices. Most institutions provide access to APS scores through their application systems or official educational platforms. There are a few simple ways to check your AP score:
- Online Portals: Many universities and educational organisations have online systems where you can easily view your score.
- School Reports: Your high school may include your AP score in your final academic report.
- University Admissions Offices: You can also contact the admissions office at the universities you’re interested in for guidance on how to access your Admission Point Score.
Difference Between WRS Score And APS Score
The APS (Admission Point Score) and WRS (Weighted Rating Score) are both ways to measure academic performance, but they are used for different purposes. The APS score is mainly used for university admissions in South Africa. It is based on a student’s grades in their final year of high school and helps universities decide if a student qualifies for their programmes. The Admission Point Score is crucial for getting into a university, as it shows how well a student did in their final exams.
On the other hand, the WRS score is used in other situations, like for scholarships or special programmes. It can include a variety of factors beyond just grades, such as extracurricular activities and other achievements. The WRS score uses a weighting system, meaning that different parts of a student’s profile are valued differently. While a good score is important for university entry, a strong WRS score can help with scholarships and competitive programmes by showing a broader picture of a student’s talents and accomplishments. Knowing the difference between these scores can help students make the most of their academic journey and apply for various opportunities.
Career Impacts of APS
The Admission Point Score (APS) is more than just a number for university admission; it can have a lasting influence on your career path. Here’s how APS affects your professional journey:
1. Access to Quality Programmes
A higher APS allows students to enter competitive and specialised programmes at top universities. For example, courses like LLB, Medicine, or Accounting often require higher APS scores. Completing these programmes can lead to careers with higher earning potential and greater professional recognition.
2. Eligibility for Scholarships and Funding
Many bursaries, scholarships, and financial aid programmes consider APS when evaluating applicants. A strong APS increases your chances of securing funding, which can reduce the financial burden of studying and allow you to focus on career development.
3. Foundation for Professional Skills
Your APS reflects your academic preparedness. A strong APS indicates that you are ready for the rigours of tertiary education, which builds foundational knowledge and skills relevant to your chosen career.
4. Alternative Pathways and Career Flexibility
Even if your APS does not meet the requirements for specific programmes, you can start with foundation or higher certificate programmes (e.g., HCBM, HCPM) and later progress to bachelor’s or postgraduate qualifications. This flexibility ensures that students can still pursue meaningful careers despite initial APS limitations.
5. Long-Term Career Prospects
Graduates from high-entry programmes (which require a strong APS) generally have better job opportunities, career advancement, and higher salaries. Employers often value candidates from competitive programmes as they demonstrate strong academic and professional competence.
Your APS score influences not only your university admission but also your career trajectory. A strong APS opens doors to competitive programmes, scholarships, and high-demand professions, while alternative pathways ensure that even students with lower APS can build a successful career.
How To Use APS Score For Course Selection?
In South Africa, the Admission Point Score (APS) helps determine your eligibility for higher education by using your National Senior Certificate (NSC) results. Each university and course has its own APS requirements to ensure students meet their academic standards.
If your APS score is low, look for universities with lower entry requirements or consider alternative programmes like diplomas or certificates, such as ICB and CIMA courses or short courses. These low APS values can provide new opportunities and help you advance your career. On the other hand, a high AP score opens doors to competitive programmes, specialisations, and honours courses at top institutions. It also improves your chances of receiving scholarships and bursaries and allows you to explore dual or combined degrees to enhance your academic and career prospects.
Courses You Can Enroll in After Matric
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing what the Admission Point Score is and how it works can greatly affect your path to higher education in South Africa. The Admission Point Score, based on your final school results, is important for getting into universities, qualifying for different programmes, and even applying for scholarships. By understanding and calculating your Admission Point Score correctly, you can make smart choices about your education, whether you’re targeting competitive programmes or considering other options. Being familiar with an APS score helps you prepare well for university and move forward with your academic and career plans.
At Regenesys Education, students can choose from a variety of accredited programmes to kickstart their career journey. APS is only required for the LLB degree (26 APS for admission), while all other courses, including BBA, HCBM, HCPM, and postgraduate qualifications, are open entry.
Discover our accredited programmes and start your career journey today.
Find the Right Regenesys Programme Based on Your APS Score
- DBM - Doctor of Business Management
- MBA - Master of Business Administration
- BBA - Bachelor of Business Administration
- LLB - Bachelor of Laws
- BCOMPT - Bachelor of Accounting Science
- MPM - Master of Public Management
- Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services
- Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Marketing
FAQ – What Is APS Score? Understand The Basics
Q1.How to count APS score?
You calculate your APS score by converting your final Grade 12 subject marks into points and then adding the points from your best six subjects. Each percentage range equals a specific point value (e.g., 80%+ = 7 points). The total gives you your APS score for university admission.
Q2. Can I improve my APS score after receiving my final results?
Once you receive your final matric results, your AP score is fixed for that year. To improve it, you need to retake subjects or consider alternative pathways like supplementary exams or additional qualifications.
Q3. What is a good APS score?
A good Admission Point Score depends on the programme you’re applying for. Generally, a score of 25 or higher is considered strong, but some programmes may require even more.
Q4. Where to check APS scores?
You can check your Admission Point Score online through university portals, on your school’s final report, or by asking the admissions office of the universities you’re interested in.
Q5. What to do if you have a low APS score?
If your Admission Point Score is low, you might consider applying to universities with lower entry requirements or exploring other options, such as diplomas and short courses, to improve your chances.
