What is an APS score?

An Admission Point Score (APS) is a number many South African universities use to compare NSC or IEB matric results. Most convert each subject's achievement level (1 to 7) into the same number of points, then add selected subjects.

Is this the official APS for every university?

No. Faculties set their own rules - which subjects count, whether Life Orientation is included, and whether they use a different scale. Use this page to estimate a common 1-to-7 total, then check the faculty prospectus.

How do IEB marks convert to APS?

IEB NSC results also use achievement levels 1 to 7. Many universities treat IEB and DBE NSC levels the same for APS. Confirm with the university you are applying to.

Matric · university admissions

APS calculator for matric

Enter your NSC or IEB achievement levels (1 to 7) to estimate a common Admission Point Score. This is a planning tool - not an official university offer.

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Estimated APS

0points so far

Enter levels below

Include Life OrientationMany faculties exclude it or cap it - check their rules before you rely on this total.

Home LanguageFirst Additional LanguageMathematics or Mathematical LiteracyLife OrientationoptionalElective 1Elective 2Elective 3

How this APS score is calculated

The Department of Basic Education reports NSC results as achievement levels. Many universities convert each level into the same number of APS points. We use that 1-for-1 scale below.

Level	Typical percentage band	APS points
7	80% to 100%	7
6	70% to 79%	6
5	60% to 69%	5
4	50% to 59%	4
3	40% to 49%	3
2	30% to 39%	2
1	0% to 29%	1

Percentage bands follow DBE NSC achievement levels. Some faculties use a different scale, require specific subjects, or count only six subjects. Always confirm on the university website.

Raise the subjects that move your APS

One extra achievement level in Maths, Physical Sciences or Accounting is often worth more than spreading effort across every subject.

FAQs

What is an APS score?: An Admission Point Score (APS) is a number many South African universities use to compare NSC or IEB matric results. Most convert each subject's achievement level (1 to 7) into the same number of points, then add selected subjects.
Is this the official APS for every university?: No. Faculties set their own rules - which subjects count, whether Life Orientation is included, and whether they use a different scale. Use this page to estimate a common 1-to-7 total, then check the faculty prospectus.
How do IEB marks convert to APS?: IEB NSC results also use achievement levels 1 to 7. Many universities treat IEB and DBE NSC levels the same for APS. Confirm with the university you are applying to.

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