Low APS? Here Are Study Options That Still Accept You
For many South African students, receiving matric results with a low APS (Admission Point Score) can feel like hitting a dead end. Whether you’re a school leaver, a parent supporting a child, or a job seeker hoping to upskill, it’s normal to feel anxious about the future. But here’s the good news: a low APS doesn’t mean the end of your academic journey.
What Is APS and Why Does It Matter?
APS, or Admission Point Score, is the points-based system South African universities and colleges use to assess whether you qualify for a particular course. It’s calculated based on your final matric results.
How Is APS Calculated?
Each subject is allocated points according to your achievement level:
| Percentage | APS Points |
|---|---|
| 80–100% | 7 |
| 70–79% | 6 |
| 60–69% | 5 |
| 50–59% | 4 |
| 40–49% | 3 |
| 30–39% | 2 |
| 0–29% | 1 |
Different institutions have different minimum APS requirements. For example, a Bachelor’s degree may require 26 or more points, while a diploma might only need 18–22.
Study Paths That Accept Low APS Scores
1. TVET Colleges: Skills-Focused and Accessible
TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges are a great option if you didn’t qualify for university.
Why TVET Colleges Work:
- Many NCV (National Certificate Vocational) courses only require a Grade 9 pass.
- Courses in engineering, hospitality, business, IT, and education are widely available.
- Government-funded and NSFAS-supported for qualifying students.
Visit the DHET’s official TVET page: https://www.dhet.gov.za
2. Higher Certificate Programmes at Universities
If your APS is between 15–21, you may still qualify for Higher Certificate courses at public universities and private colleges.
Example Courses:
- Higher Certificate in IT
- Higher Certificate in Business Management
- Higher Certificate in Education Support
Once completed, you may apply to bridge into a diploma or degree.
Check institutions like Unisa, TUT, and Boston City Campus
3. Bridging or Foundation Programmes
Some universities offer access or bridging programmes for students who narrowly missed APS requirements but show potential.
Notable Examples:
- Wits University’s Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP)
- UWC’s Foundation Programmes
- DUT’s Access Courses
These often add one extra year to your studies but allow you to earn a full qualification.
4. Private Colleges With Flexible Entry Requirements
Private institutions often accept students with lower APS scores or offer alternative assessments.
Recommended Institutions:
- MANCOSA
- INTEC College
- Rosebank College
- Damelin
Many of these colleges are accredited and offer full qualifications and short courses.
5. Learnerships and Internships Without Matric
If you’re more interested in getting work experience and a qualification at the same time, learnerships are a powerful alternative.
Benefits:
- No matric or high APS needed for many programmes
- Combine workplace training with theoretical study
- Often lead to formal qualifications (NQF Levels 2–5)
Browse SAYouth.mobi or Department of Labour for opportunities.
Can NSFAS Fund You With a Low APS?
Yes — NSFAS does not consider APS when approving funding. What matters is:
- Your financial status (means test)
- Your registration at a public university or TVET college
Tip: You must meet the institution’s minimum entry requirements, regardless of NSFAS approval.
Apply for NSFAS at https://www.nsfas.org.za
Common Mistakes to Avoid If You Have a Low APS
- Waiting too long to explore options — deadlines approach quickly.
- Ignoring TVET colleges because of stigma — many employers value their practical skills.
- Assuming you can’t study further — there are pathways for every level.
Pro Tip: Always double-check entry requirements directly with the institution — some courses revise their APS cutoffs yearly.
Read more: Bursaries Closing in August 2025
FAQs About Low APS and Study Options
Q: Can I upgrade my matric to improve APS?
Yes. You can rewrite specific subjects through the Second Chance Matric Programme.
Q: What’s the lowest APS I can have and still study?
Some TVET courses accept students with a Grade 9 report. For higher certificates, aim for an APS of at least 15–18.
Q: Will I get a job with a higher certificate or TVET qualification?
Yes. Many students enter industries like hospitality, logistics, IT support, and office administration through these qualifications.
Real Student Success: Sipho’s Journey from Low APS to Diploma
Sipho from Limpopo had an APS of 17 and couldn’t qualify for university. He enrolled in a TVET college’s NCV Marketing course, funded by NSFAS. After completing it, he applied to a diploma programme at UNISA. Today, he works in a corporate sales team and is continuing his BCom part-time.
Your Next Steps
- List your APS and subjects.
- Compare requirements for higher certificates, TVET programmes, and private colleges.
- Contact institutions directly or visit open days.
- Apply for NSFAS if eligible.
- Explore bridging or extended programmes at public universities.
Also check: Top-Paying Degrees in South Africa: Salary Insights by Qualification
A low APS can feel discouraging, but it doesn’t have to derail your goals. South Africa has a variety of study options for all academic levels. Whether you choose a higher certificate, TVET course, or bridging programme, what matters is your commitment to growth.
Take charge of your future — start exploring today.
Disclaimer: Entry requirements and funding details are accurate at time of writing (August 2025) but may change. Always confirm with the institution or funder.
