How to Calculate Your APS Score

The APS (Admission Point Score) is calculated from a learner's six best matric subjects, always excluding Life Orientation regardless of the mark achieved. Each of those six subjects is converted into points on a 1-7 scale based on the percentage achieved: 80-100% earns 7 points, 70-79% earns 6 points, 60-69% earns 5 points, and so on down to a 1 for the lowest achievement band. Adding the six subject scores together gives a maximum possible APS of 42.

1. List your six best matric subject percentages (excluding Life Orientation).
2. Convert each percentage to a point value on the 1-7 scale.
3. Add the six point values together for your total APS (maximum 42).
4. Compare your APS to each programme's minimum requirement — most sit between 18 and 36.
5. Use the calculator above to verify your score instantly.

Most South African university programmes require an APS somewhere between 18 and 36, though highly competitive programmes such as Medicine, Actuarial Science, or Engineering at top universities often set additional subject-specific minimums, for example a minimum percentage in Mathematics and Physical Sciences, on top of the overall APS requirement.