All Medicine and Health Sciences Programmes in South Africa - APS Comparison 2026
16 programmes listed, APS range 26-42
| Institution | Programme | Min APS | Subject Requirements | Career Paths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Venda University |
BSc Nursing BSc · 4 years |
26 | Math Lit OK (L3+) English L4+ Life Sciences Level 4 |
Registered Nurse, Community Health Nurse |
| Tshwane University of Technology University of Technology |
Diploma in Nursing Diploma · 3 years |
28 | Math Lit OK (L3+) English L4+ Life Sciences Level 4 |
Registered Nurse, Clinical Nurse |
| Nelson Mandela University University |
BSc Nursing BSc · 4 years |
28 | Math Lit OK (L3+) English L4+ Life Sciences Level 4 |
Registered Nurse, Community Health Nurse |
| University of KwaZulu-Natal University |
Nursing BNursing · 4 years |
30 | Math Lit OK (L3+) English L4+ Life Sciences Level 4 |
Registered Nurse, Community Health Nurse |
| North-West University University |
BSc Pharmacy BPharm · 4 years |
30 | Maths only (L5+) English L4+ Life Sciences Level 5; Physical Sciences Level 4 |
Pharmacist, Clinical Pharmacist |
| University of Limpopo University |
BSc Pharmacy BPharm · 4 years |
30 | Maths only (L5+) English L4+ Life Sciences Level 4; Physical Sciences Level 4 |
Pharmacist, Clinical Pharmacist |
| Walter Sisulu University University |
Medicine (MBChB) MBChB · 6 years |
32 | Maths only (L4+) English L4+ Life Sciences Level 4; Physical Sciences Level 4 |
Doctor, Medical Officer |
| Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University University |
BDS Dentistry BDS · 5 years |
32 | Maths only (L4+) English L4+ Life Sciences Level 5; Physical Sciences Level 4 |
Dentist, Oral Hygienist |
| University of Cape Town University |
Nursing BSc Nursing · 4 years |
34 | Math Lit OK (L4+) English L5+ Life Sciences Level 4 |
Registered Nurse, Nursing Manager |
| University of Limpopo University |
Medicine (MBChB) MBChB · 6 years |
34 | Maths only (L5+) English L4+ Life Sciences Level 5; Physical Sciences Level 5 |
Doctor, Medical Officer |
| Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University University |
Medicine (MBChB) MBChB · 6 years |
34 | Maths only (L5+) English L4+ Life Sciences Level 5; Physical Sciences Level 5 |
Doctor, Medical Officer |
| University of the Witwatersrand University |
Pharmacy BPharm · 4 years |
36 | Maths only (L5+) English L5+ Life Sciences Level 5; Physical Sciences Level 5 |
Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher |
| University of the Free State University |
Medicine (MBChB) MBChB · 5 years |
36 | Maths only (L5+) English L5+ Life Sciences Level 5; Physical Sciences Level 5 |
Doctor, Medical Officer |
| University of KwaZulu-Natal University |
Medicine (MBChB) MBChB · 6 years |
40 | Maths only (L5+) English L5+ Life Sciences Level 5; Physical Sciences Level 5 |
Doctor, Surgeon |
| University of Cape Town University |
Medicine (MBChB) MBChB · 6 years |
42 | Maths only (L5+) English L5+ Life Sciences Level 6; Physical Sciences Level 5 |
Doctor, Surgeon |
| University of the Witwatersrand University |
Medicine (MBBCh) MBBCh · 6 years |
42 | Maths only (L5+) English L5+ Life Sciences Level 6; Physical Sciences Level 5 |
Doctor, Medical Researcher |
Frequently Asked Questions
What APS do I need to study Medicine and Health Sciences in South Africa?
APS requirements for Medicine and Health Sciences in South Africa range from 26 to 42 points depending on the institution and specific programme. The lowest entry point is 26 APS (University of Venda), while the most competitive programmes require 42 APS (UCT). Use the free APS Calculator on Career Helper to see exactly which programmes you qualify for.
Can I study Medicine and Health Sciences with Mathematical Literacy?
Most Medicine and Health Sciences programmes require Pure Mathematics. Only 5 out of 16 programmes accept Mathematical Literacy. Always check the specific programme requirements before applying.
Which South African university is best for Medicine and Health Sciences?
Top-ranked institutions for Medicine and Health Sciences in South Africa include: University of KwaZulu-Natal, University of Cape Town, University of the Witwatersrand. The best university depends on your APS, location, and career goals. Use Career Helper's free Career Roadmap for personalised guidance.
How long does it take to study Medicine and Health Sciences?
Programme durations for Medicine and Health Sciences in South Africa: 4 years, 3 years, 6 years, 5 years. Bachelor's degrees are typically 3-4 years. Diploma programmes at universities of technology take 3 years.
Can I get NSFAS funding to study Medicine and Health Sciences?
Yes, NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) funds eligible students at all 26 public universities and all 50 TVET colleges, including for Medicine and Health Sciences programmes. To qualify: South African citizenship, household income under R350,000/year, and admission to a qualifying programme. Apply at nsfas.org.za. SASSA grant recipients automatically qualify.