📐 How UP Calculates APS
Method: Standard NSC APS
Top 6 subjects + Life Orientation (halved). Standard 7-point scale.
Life Orientation: Counted at half value (÷2). Maximum score: 45 points.
📋 Programme Requirements 2026
⭐ Highlighted rows = high-demand programmes. APS badge colour: Low (<28) Mid (28–35) High (36+)
Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment & IT
| Programme | Degree | APS | Maths Req | Career Paths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineering | BEng 4 years |
35 | Maths L6 (no ML) | Mechanical Engineer, Design Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer |
| Information Technology | BIT 4 years |
32 | Maths L5 (no ML) | IT Specialist, Software Developer, Systems Administrator |
Faculty of Veterinary Science
| Programme | Degree | APS | Maths Req | Career Paths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Veterinary Science | BVSc 6 years |
36 | Maths L5 (no ML) | Veterinarian, Animal Researcher, Wildlife Specialist |
Faculty of Economic & Management Sciences
| Programme | Degree | APS | Maths Req | Career Paths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BCom Accounting Sciences | BCom 3 years |
34 | Maths L5 (no ML) | Chartered Accountant, Financial Analyst, Tax Consultant |
| BCom Economics | BCom 3 years |
32 | Maths L5 (no ML) | Economist, Policy Analyst, Financial Consultant |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What APS do I need for UP in 2026?
University of Pretoria (UP) requires an APS score between 32 and 36 points for 2026 entry, depending on the programme.
Competitive programmes requiring 36+ points include: Mechanical Engineering, Veterinary Science.
Use the free Career Helper APS Calculator to instantly calculate your score.
How does UP calculate APS?
University of Pretoria uses the Standard NSC APS system. Top 6 subjects + Life Orientation (halved). Standard 7-point scale.
The maximum APS is 45 points.
Does UP accept Mathematical Literacy?
Most programmes at University of Pretoria require Pure Mathematics and do not accept Mathematical Literacy. Use the APS Calculator to see which programmes match your subjects.
When does UP open applications for 2026?
University of Pretoria typically opens applications between April and August for the following academic year.
Closing dates vary by faculty — Engineering and Health Sciences often close earlier (around June/July).
Always check the official UP website for confirmed 2026 application dates.
Use Career Helper to prepare your APS before applications open.
Province
🏙️ Gauteng
Institution Type
University
APS System
Standard NSC APS
Maximum APS
45 points
Application Fee
R300
Apply Online
💳
Application Fee: R300
Most SA universities offer fee waivers for financially disadvantaged applicants — contact UP's Financial Aid or Admissions office before your application deadline to request a waiver. All 50 public TVET colleges are free to apply — see the TVET Colleges Guide if you need a fee-free option.
⚠️ Disclaimer: Programme requirements and APS scores are based on recent admission data and may change. Always verify current requirements directly with UP. Career Helper is an informational platform and is not affiliated with University of Pretoria.