The University of Pretoria (UP) is one of South Africa’s premier institutions of higher learning, consistently ranked among the top universities in the country and globally. It offers a wide range of academic programs, from undergraduate degrees to postgraduate qualifications, across various faculties such as Health Sciences, Law, Engineering, Humanities, and more.
1. Understanding the APS System
Before we dive into the specific APS requirements for 2026, it’s important to first understand what the APS system is and how it works. It is based on the results of your National Senior Certificate (NSC) or other equivalent qualifications.
Each subject you take in your final year of school is assigned a score based on your performance. The APS score is calculated by assigning specific points to your grades, and these points are added together to give your total APS. The scale for assigning points is as follows:
- A (80% – 100%) = 7 points
- B (70% – 79%) = 6 points
- C (60% – 69%) = 5 points
- D (50% – 59%) = 4 points
- E (40% – 49%) = 3 points
- F (0% – 39%) = 0 points
The highest possible APS score is 42, which is achieved by scoring A’s (80% or higher) in all of your subjects. However, most students score between 20 and 35 points, depending on their academic performance.
2. The University of Pretoria’s Minimum APS Requirements for 2026
Each program at UP has its own APS requirement, meaning that the number of points needed for admission will vary depending on your chosen course. Some programs may have higher APS thresholds due to the competitive nature of the field, while others may have more flexible requirements.
General Minimum APS Requirements
As of 2026, the general minimum APS requirement for admission to undergraduate programs at the University of Pretoria is typically 28 points. However, this is only the baseline requirement, and some courses may have a higher APS requirement, depending on the program.
3. Minimum APS for Popular Faculties at the University of Pretoria in 2026
Let’s take a closer look at the APS requirements for some of the most popular faculties and programs at UP. These are just guidelines, and students should always check specific program requirements, as they may change yearly.
3.1 Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology
The Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology at UP is one of the most competitive and sought-after faculties, attracting many students each year. As such, the APS requirements for certain programs can be quite high. Below are the approximate APS requirements for some of the programs:
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Electrical Engineering: Minimum APS of 36
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Mechanical Engineering: Minimum APS of 35
- Bachelor of Information Science (BInfSc): Minimum APS of 30
- Bachelor of Construction Management: Minimum APS of 32
Engineering and IT programs tend to have the highest APS requirements due to their popularity and the technical nature of the courses.
3.2 Faculty of Health Sciences
Health Sciences is another competitive faculty at the University of Pretoria. The APS required to study medicine, dentistry, and related programs is often high. The following are some of the popular programs and their APS requirements:
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB): Minimum APS of 35 (Note: This program is highly competitive, and meeting the minimum APS does not guarantee admission.)
- Bachelor of Dental Sciences: Minimum APS of 34
- Bachelor of Nursing Science: Minimum APS of 30
- Bachelor of Physiotherapy: Minimum APS of 30
Admission into the Health Sciences programs often includes additional requirements such as aptitude tests and interviews.
3.3 Faculty of Humanities
The Faculty of Humanities is diverse, offering a wide range of programs in fields like Social Sciences, Languages, Psychology, and more. Here are the approximate APS requirements for some programs:
- Bachelor of Social Work: Minimum APS of 28
- Bachelor of Psychology: Minimum APS of 30
- Bachelor of Arts in International Studies: Minimum APS of 28
- Bachelor of Journalism: Minimum APS of 30
The Humanities faculty generally has a broader range of APS requirements, making it more accessible to a wider pool of applicants.
3.4 Faculty of Law
The Faculty of Law at the University of Pretoria is known for its reputable law programs. It attracts many students every year, and the APS requirements are relatively competitive:
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB): Minimum APS of 32
Law is one of the more competitive fields, so meeting the minimum APS requirement does not guarantee admission, as additional factors like your matric subjects and marks in specific subjects (e.g., English, Afrikaans, or Mathematics) may be taken into account.
3.5 Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
This faculty offers a wide range of science-based programs, from biological sciences to agriculture and environmental studies. The APS requirements for popular programs are as follows:
- Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Physics: Minimum APS of 30
- Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Chemistry: Minimum APS of 30
- Bachelor of Science in Agriculture: Minimum APS of 28
Programs in natural and agricultural sciences tend to have moderate APS requirements compared to faculties like Engineering or Health Sciences.
4. Factors That Influence Admission to the University of Pretoria
In addition to meeting the minimum APS requirement, there are several other factors that may influence whether you are admitted to the University of Pretoria. These include:
- Matric Subjects: Certain programs, such as Engineering and Health Sciences, require specific subjects like Mathematics and Physical Science. Ensure that you meet the subject requirements for your chosen program.
- Additional Tests: Some programs, particularly in the Health Sciences and Engineering fields, may require you to take additional tests or submit portfolios, essays, or attend interviews.
- Ranking and Quotas: Popular programs may have limited spaces available, meaning that even if you meet the minimum APS, you may not be admitted if there are more applicants than available spots. Your ranking, which is based on your final results, plays a crucial role in whether you are selected.
- Performance in Key Subjects: Some programs, especially those in competitive fields like Law and Medicine, may place additional weight on your performance in specific subjects like English, Mathematics, or Science.
- Residence or Locality Preferences: In some cases, the university may give preference to students from certain geographical areas or from historically disadvantaged backgrounds to promote diversity and inclusivity.
5. How to Increase Your Chances of Admission
If your APS is below the required score for your chosen program, there are a few steps you can take to improve your chances of admission:
- Consider alternative programs: You could apply for a related program with lower APS requirements and, after completing your first year, transfer to your desired program if space allows.
- Improve your academic performance: If you are still in school, focus on improving your grades to achieve a higher APS score by the time you apply.
- Explore bridging courses: Some universities offer bridging courses for students who do not meet the APS for direct admission. These courses may help you meet the requirements for entry into certain programs.
Also check: TuksSport UP Sport Performance Bursary South Africa 2026
The minimum APS for the University of Pretoria in 2026 varies depending on the program you wish to apply for. While the general minimum APS requirement is 28, specific programs, especially in fields like Engineering, Medicine, and Law, require higher APS scores due to their competitive nature. It is important to carefully check the specific requirements for your chosen program and ensure that you meet the necessary criteria.
By planning ahead, excelling in your matric exams, and considering alternative pathways if necessary, you can increase your chances of being admitted to UP. Remember, gaining admission to university is a significant step towards your future career, so take the time to research and prepare accordingly.
