APS Score Calculator 2026 South African Universities
Enter Your 6 Best Subjects
Life Orientation is excluded - use your six best academic subjects
Your APS Score
APS Point Conversion Table
| Symbol | Percentage | APS Points | Achievement Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 80% – 100% | 7 | Outstanding Achievement |
| 6 | 70% – 79% | 6 | Meritorious Achievement |
| 5 | 60% – 69% | 5 | Substantial Achievement |
| 4 | 50% – 59% | 4 | Adequate Achievement |
| 3 | 40% – 49% | 3 | Moderate Achievement |
| 2 | 30% – 39% | 2 | Elementary Achievement |
| 1 | 0% – 29% | 1 | Not Achieved |
Qualification Requirements
- Bachelor's Degree: Minimum 23 APS points
- Diploma: Minimum 19 APS points
- Higher Certificate: Minimum 15 APS points
- Maximum APS: 42 points (6 subjects × 7 points)
Quick Tips
- Use your 6 best academic subjects (exclude LO)
- 80-100% = 7 points per subject
- 70-79% = 6 points, 60-69% = 5 points
- Medicine requires 35-42 APS typically
- Engineering requires 32+ APS with Math & Science
How to Calculate Your APS Score
APS Formula: APS = Σ (Points per subject) for your 6 best subjects
Each subject percentage converts to points using the table above. For example:
- Mathematics: 82% → 7 points
- English: 75% → 6 points
- Physical Science: 68% → 5 points
- Life Sciences: 71% → 6 points
- Geography: 65% → 5 points
- Afrikaans: 58% → 4 points
- Total APS = 7+6+5+6+5+4 = 33 points
This score qualifies for most Bachelor's degree programs, though competitive courses like Medicine (35-42) require higher scores.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest APS score you can get?
The maximum APS score is 42 points, achieved by scoring 80-100% in all six subjects (6 subjects × 7 points = 42). This exceptional score qualifies you for any program at any South African university.
Does Life Orientation count towards APS?
Most South African universities exclude Life Orientation from APS calculations entirely. Some institutions count it at half value or cap its contribution. This calculator follows the standard practice of using your six best academic subjects, excluding LO.
What APS score do I need for university?
Bachelor's Degree: minimum 23 APS points. Diploma: minimum 19 APS points. Higher Certificate: minimum 15 APS points. However, competitive programs require higher scores: Medicine (35+), Engineering (32+), Law (28-32).
Can I use Grade 11 results to calculate APS?
Yes, Grade 11 final results can be used for provisional university applications. However, final admission requires your Grade 12 matric results. Use our calculator with your Grade 11 marks to get an early indication of your standing.
Do all universities use the same APS system?
No. While the basic principle is consistent, universities implement different variations. Some use six subjects, others seven; some exclude Life Orientation, others include it with modifications. Always verify with your specific university.
