{"id":20918,"date":"2025-08-06T16:18:35","date_gmt":"2025-08-06T14:18:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/?p=20918"},"modified":"2026-03-12T10:05:31","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T08:05:31","slug":"low-aps-here-are-study-options-that-still-accept-you","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/low-aps-here-are-study-options-that-still-accept-you\/","title":{"rendered":"Low APS? Here Are Study Options That Still Accept You"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>For many South African students, receiving matric results with a low APS (Admission Point Score) can feel like hitting a dead end. Whether you&#8217;re a school leaver, a parent supporting a child, or a job seeker hoping to upskill, it\u2019s normal to feel anxious about the future. But here\u2019s the good news: a low APS doesn\u2019t mean the end of your academic journey. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-aps-and-why-does-it-matter\">What Is APS and Why Does It Matter?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>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\u2019s calculated based on your final matric results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-is-aps-calculated\">How Is APS Calculated?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Each subject is allocated points according to your achievement level:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Percentage<\/th><th>APS Points<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>80\u2013100%<\/td><td>7<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>70\u201379%<\/td><td>6<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>60\u201369%<\/td><td>5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>50\u201359%<\/td><td>4<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>40\u201349%<\/td><td>3<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>30\u201339%<\/td><td>2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>0\u201329%<\/td><td>1<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Different institutions have different minimum APS requirements. For example, a Bachelor\u2019s degree may require 26 or more points, while a diploma might only need 18\u201322.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-2324402328\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-study-paths-that-accept-low-aps-scores\">Study Paths That Accept Low APS Scores<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-tvet-colleges-skills-focused-and-accessible\">1. TVET Colleges: Skills-Focused and Accessible<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges are a great option if you didn\u2019t qualify for university.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-tvet-colleges-work\">Why TVET Colleges Work:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Many NCV (National Certificate Vocational) courses only require a Grade 9 pass.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Courses in engineering, hospitality, business, IT, and education are widely available.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Government-funded and NSFAS-supported for qualifying students.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Visit the DHET&#8217;s official TVET page: <a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dhet.gov.za\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.dhet.gov.za<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-higher-certificate-programmes-at-universities\">2. Higher Certificate Programmes at Universities<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If your APS is between 15\u201321, you may still qualify for Higher Certificate courses at public universities and private colleges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-example-courses\">Example Courses:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Higher Certificate in IT<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Higher Certificate in Business Management<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Higher Certificate in Education Support<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Once completed, you may apply to bridge into a diploma or degree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check institutions like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.unisa.ac.za\/sites\/corporate\/default\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Unisa<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tut.ac.za\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TUT<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.boston.ac.za\/apply\/?gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=22697185423&amp;gbraid=0AAAAADqJvQjW-1BXu_4_vqko0mOE1ksZW&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjw-svEBhB6EiwAEzSdrshJbsFtixLtwMFh3WpINeOO6-gTnGk6ZZVGyVgbF_KYRabRiIYGQRoCEzAQAvD_BwE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Boston City Campus<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-bridging-or-foundation-programmes\">3. Bridging or Foundation Programmes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Some universities offer access or bridging programmes for students who narrowly missed APS requirements but show potential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-notable-examples\">Notable Examples:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Wits University\u2019s Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>UWC\u2019s Foundation Programmes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>DUT\u2019s Access Courses<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These often add one extra year to your studies but allow you to earn a full qualification.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-private-colleges-with-flexible-entry-requirements\">4. Private Colleges With Flexible Entry Requirements<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Private institutions often accept students with lower APS scores or offer alternative assessments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-recommended-institutions\">Recommended Institutions:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>MANCOSA<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>INTEC College<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rosebank College<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Damelin<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Many of these colleges are accredited and offer full qualifications and short courses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-learnerships-and-internships-without-matric\">5. Learnerships and Internships Without Matric<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re more interested in getting work experience and a qualification at the same time, learnerships are a powerful alternative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-benefits\">Benefits:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>No matric or high APS needed for many programmes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Combine workplace training with theoretical study<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Often lead to formal qualifications (NQF Levels 2\u20135)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Browse <a href=\"https:\/\/sayouth.mobi\/Home\/Index\/EN\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SAYouth.mobi<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.labour.gov.za\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Department of Labour<\/a> for opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-can-nsfas-fund-you-with-a-low-aps\">Can NSFAS Fund You With a Low APS?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes \u2014 NSFAS does not consider APS when approving funding. What matters is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Your financial status (means test)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your registration at a public university or TVET college<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Tip: You must meet the institution\u2019s minimum entry requirements, regardless of NSFAS approval.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Apply for NSFAS at <a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nsfas.org.za\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.nsfas.org.za<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-235497116\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-common-mistakes-to-avoid-if-you-have-a-low-aps\">Common Mistakes to Avoid If You Have a Low APS<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Waiting too long to explore options \u2014 deadlines approach quickly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ignoring TVET colleges because of stigma \u2014 many employers value their practical skills.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Assuming you can\u2019t study further \u2014 there are pathways for every level.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> Always double-check entry requirements directly with the institution \u2014 some courses revise their APS cutoffs yearly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Read more: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/bursaries-closing-in-august-2025\/\">Bursaries Closing in August 2025<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-faqs-about-low-aps-and-study-options\">FAQs About Low APS and Study Options<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Can I upgrade my matric to improve APS?<\/strong><br>Yes. You can rewrite specific subjects through the Second Chance Matric Programme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: What\u2019s the lowest APS I can have and still study?<\/strong><br>Some TVET courses accept students with a Grade 9 report. For higher certificates, aim for an APS of at least 15\u201318.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Will I get a job with a higher certificate or TVET qualification?<\/strong><br>Yes. Many students enter industries like hospitality, logistics, IT support, and office administration through these qualifications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-2007383046\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-real-student-success-sipho-s-journey-from-low-aps-to-diploma\">Real Student Success: Sipho\u2019s Journey from Low APS to Diploma<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Sipho from Limpopo had an APS of 17 and couldn\u2019t qualify for university. He enrolled in a TVET college\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-your-next-steps\">Your Next Steps<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>List your APS and subjects.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Compare requirements for higher certificates, TVET programmes, and private colleges.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contact institutions directly or visit open days.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apply for NSFAS if eligible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Explore bridging or extended programmes at public universities.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Also check: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nasi-ispani.co.za\/top-paying-degrees-in-south-africa-for-2025\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Top-Paying Degrees in South Africa: Salary Insights by Qualification<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A low APS can feel discouraging, but it doesn\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Take charge of your future \u2014 start exploring today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Disclaimer:<\/strong> Entry requirements and funding details are accurate at time of writing (August 2025) but may change. Always confirm with the institution or funder.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover study options for South African students with low APS scores. Explore TVET colleges, higher certificates, bridging programmes, and more pathways to success.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":20931,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_focus_keyword":"","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"Discover study options for South African students with low APS scores. Explore TVET colleges, higher certificates, bridging programmes, and more pathways to success.","footnotes":""},"categories":[68],"tags":[190,181],"class_list":{"0":"post-20918","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-education","8":"tag-nsfas-funding","9":"tag-tvet-colleges"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20918","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/13"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=20918"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20918\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":20933,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20918\/revisions\/20933"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/20931"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=20918"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=20918"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=20918"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}