APS Requirements for KZN Universities – How to Calculate & Meet 2026 Admission Points

Your Admission Point Score (APS) is one of the first hurdles when applying to university. Each institution sets minimum APS thresholds for different programmes, and understanding these requirements will help you choose programmes you qualify for and prepare for exam results. This article explains how APS is calculated, outlines typical requirements for KZN universities and offers tips on improving your score.

📌 APS Score Calculator: https://kznuniupdates.org/aps-score-calculator/

Table of Contents

1. What Is APS and How Is It Calculated?
2. APS Requirements for UKZN
3. APS Requirements for DUT
4. APS Requirements for UNIZULU
5. Tips to Improve Your APS Score
6. FAQs
7. Internal Linking Suggestions
8. Conclusion

📌 Full CAO guide: https://kznuniupdates.org/cao-application/

1. What Is APS and How Is It Calculated?

The APS is a points system based on your best six subjects (excluding Life Orientation). Points are awarded according to the percentage achieved, e.g., 80–100 % = 7 points, 70–79 % = 6 points and so on. Sum your points from six subjects to get your APS. Some universities require specific subjects like Mathematics or Physical Science in the calculation.

2. APS Requirements for UKZN

UKZN provides APS ranges rather than a single figure. Here are some examples from the 2026 degree requirements:

• BCom Accounting: APS 28–32 points; requires English (Home/First Additional Language) and Mathematics.
• BCom Extended Curriculum: APS 22–28.
• LLB: APS 28–32 with strong English.
• Bachelor of Business Science: APS 28–33.

📌 UKZN Application Guide: https://kznuniupdates.org/ukzn-2026-applications-deadlines-step%e2%80%91by%e2%80%91step-guide/

Certain programmes such as engineering or health sciences may require APS scores above 40 and mandatory subjects like Mathematics and Physical Science.

3. APS Requirements for DUT

DUT sets minimum APS scores based on qualification type:

• Higher Certificate programmes: 24–27 points.
• Diploma programmes: 24–27 points.
• Bachelor’s degrees: 28–32 points.

Programme examples:

• Engineering (e.g., Mechanical or Civil): Typically requires 32 points.
• Education: Requires around 28 points.
• Health Sciences: Requires 28–30 points with compulsory Mathematics and Science.

DUT Applications: https://kznuniupdates.org/dut-2026-applications-guide-deadlines-requirements-process/

4. APS Requirements for UNIZULU

UNIZULU calculates APS using the best six subjects excluding Life Orientation. Minimum APS thresholds include:

• BA programmes: 28+ points.
• Social Work: 30+ points.
• Law degrees: 32+ points.
• BCom programmes: 30–34 points.
• Engineering or Science degrees: Often require 36–38 points (and strong Maths & Science).

Unizulu Applications: https://kznuniupdates.org/unizulu-2026-applications-deadlines-application-steps/

5. Tips to Improve Your APS Score

• Focus on high‑credit subjects: Subjects like Mathematics, Physical Science and Accounting often carry more weight for STEM and commerce programmes.
• Improve your language marks: Many programmes require English proficiency.
• Rewrite if necessary: If your marks are borderline, consider rewriting Grade 12 subjects to improve your APS.
• Seek extra support: Use tutoring, study groups and past papers to strengthen weak subjects.

6. FAQs

Q1: Can Life Orientation be included in the APS?
A: No. KZN universities generally exclude Life Orientation from the APS calculation.

Q2: Do universities consider other factors besides APS?
A: Yes. Some programmes require aptitude tests, portfolios, auditions or minimum subject marks.

Q3: Is a higher APS always better?
A: While meeting the minimum is essential, a higher APS improves your chances when programmes are oversubscribed.

7. Conclusion

Understanding APS requirements is key to choosing the right programmes and preparing your application. UKZN, DUT and UNIZULU each set their own point ranges – from 24 points for certificates to 32+ points for competitive degrees. Calculate your APS early, work to improve weak subjects and aim above the minimum to maximise your chances for the 2026 intake.