For many South African students, the APS (Admission Point Score) can be a major determining factor in university acceptance. Whether you've completed your National Senior Certificate (NSC) but didn't achieve the APS points needed for your desired program, there are several ways to improve your standing.
1. Rewrite NSC Subjects
Consider rewriting specific subjects through the Department of Basic Education's Second Chance Programme. This free government initiative allows you to improve your matric results. Focus on subjects where improvement would significantly impact your APS score, particularly core subjects like Mathematics, Physical Sciences, or English.
2. Enroll in a Bridging Course
Many South African institutions offer bridging courses specifically designed to help students meet university entrance requirements. For example:
- University of Cape Town's CHED programmes
- University of Johannesburg's Extended Programmes
- UNISA's Access Programmes These courses typically run for 6-12 months and can significantly boost your academic profile.
3. Complete an N4-N6 Certificate
Consider enrolling at a TVET college for N4-N6 qualifications. These nationally recognized certificates can:
- Provide an alternative pathway to university
- Offer practical skills and knowledge
- Sometimes be converted into university credits
4. Take Advanced Mathematics at a Private Institution
Since Mathematics often carries higher APS weightings:
- Register for Advanced Mathematics at institutions like Star Schools
- Take supplementary Mathematics courses at recognized educational centers
- Consider Mathematics upgrade programmes offered by private colleges
5. Complete a Higher Certificate
A one-year Higher Certificate from a registered institution can:
- Serve as an alternative university entrance qualification
- Provide a foundation in your chosen field
- Often articulate into a degree programme
6. Take NBT (National Benchmark Tests)
While not directly improving your APS, good NBT scores can:
- Complement your existing academic record
- Demonstrate your current academic capabilities
- Sometimes be considered alongside your APS for admission
7. Gain Work Experience or Complete Internships
Some universities consider:
- Relevant work experience
- Volunteer work
- Internships in your field of interest This can strengthen your application, especially for mature student admission.
8. Consider RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning)
For students who have been out of school for a while:
- Build a portfolio of work experience
- Document any relevant training or certificates
- Apply through universities' RPL programmes
9. Take Additional Languages
Since languages often contribute significantly to APS calculations:
- Consider taking an additional South African language
- Complete language proficiency tests
- Take recognized language courses
10. Explore Foundation Year Programmes
Many South African universities offer foundation years:
- Extended degree programmes
- Academic support programmes
- Foundational provision programmes
Important Considerations:
- Always verify that your chosen improvement pathway is recognized by your target institution
- Check the APS calculation method of specific universities as they may differ
- Keep track of application deadlines for various programmes
- Maintain copies of all your academic records and certificates
- Stay in contact with university admission offices for guidance
Next Steps
- Research which universities offer your desired programme
- Compare their specific APS requirements
- Choose the most suitable improvement pathway
- Create a timeline for implementation
- Apply for any necessary funding or financial aid