APS Requirements for KZN Universities – How to Calculate & Meet 2027 Admission Points
Your Admission Point Score (APS) is one of the most important factors universities consider when evaluating applications. Each institution sets minimum APS requirements for different programmes, and understanding these thresholds helps you choose courses you qualify for.
This guide explains how APS is calculated, typical APS requirements for universities in KwaZulu-Natal, and tips to improve your score before applying for 2027 admission.
📌 APS Score Calculator:
https://kznuniupdates.org/aps-score-calculator/
Table of Contents
- What Is APS and How Is It Calculated?
- APS Requirements for UKZN
- APS Requirements for DUT
- APS Requirements for UNIZULU
- Tips to Improve Your APS Score
- FAQs
- Conclusion
📌 Full CAO Guide
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1. What Is APS and How Is It Calculated?
The Admission Point Score (APS) is a points system used by universities to evaluate National Senior Certificate (NSC) results.
Most universities calculate APS using:
- Your best six subjects
- Life Orientation is excluded
Points are awarded according to your final percentage.
| Percentage | APS Points |
|---|---|
| 80–100% | 7 |
| 70–79% | 6 |
| 60–69% | 5 |
| 50–59% | 4 |
| 40–49% | 3 |
| 30–39% | 2 |
| 0–29% | 1 |
Your APS score is the total points from your best six subjects.
Some programmes also require specific subjects like Mathematics or Physical Science.
2. APS Requirements for University of KwaZulu-Natal
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) provides APS ranges depending on the programme.
Typical examples include:
- BCom Accounting – APS 28–32 (English and Mathematics required)
- BCom Extended Curriculum – APS 22–28
- LLB (Law) – APS 28–32 with strong English
- Bachelor of Business Science – APS 28–33
📌 UKZN Application Guide
https://kznuniupdates.org/ukzn-2026-applications-deadlines-step-by-step-guide/
Highly competitive programmes such as Engineering, Medicine and Health Sciences may require:
- APS 40 or higher
- Strong Mathematics and Physical Science results
3. APS Requirements for Durban University of Technology
The Durban University of Technology (DUT) sets APS requirements based on qualification level.
| Qualification | APS Requirement |
|---|---|
| Higher Certificate | 24–27 |
| Diploma | 24–27 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 28–32 |
Examples of programme requirements:
- Engineering programmes – Around 32 APS
- Education programmes – Around 28 APS
- Health Sciences – 28–30 APS with Mathematics and Science
📌 DUT Application Guide
https://kznuniupdates.org/dut-2026-applications-guide-deadlines-requirements-process/
4. APS Requirements for University of Zululand
The University of Zululand (UNIZULU) calculates APS using the best six subjects excluding Life Orientation.
Typical APS requirements include:
- BA programmes – 28+ APS
- Social Work – 30+ APS
- Law degrees – 32+ APS
- BCom programmes – 30–34 APS
Science and engineering programmes often require:
- 36–38 APS
- Strong Mathematics and Physical Science results
📌 UNIZULU Applications
https://kznuniupdates.org/unizulu-2026-applications-deadlines-application-steps/
5. Tips to Improve Your APS Score
If your APS is close to the minimum requirement, these tips can help improve your chances.
Focus on Key Subjects
Subjects such as:
- Mathematics
- Physical Science
- Accounting
are important for STEM and commerce programmes.
Improve Your Language Marks
Most universities require strong English results, so improving your language marks can increase your APS.
Rewrite Subjects
Students who want to improve their marks can rewrite certain Grade 12 subjects to boost their APS score.
Use Study Resources
Helpful methods include:
- Tutoring and extra classes
- Studying with past exam papers
- Joining study groups
These strategies can improve performance in weaker subjects.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Can Life Orientation be included in APS?
No. Most universities exclude Life Orientation when calculating APS.
Do universities consider other factors besides APS?
Yes. Some programmes require additional criteria such as:
- Portfolio submissions
- Auditions
- Aptitude tests
- Specific subject marks
Is a higher APS always better?
Yes. Meeting the minimum allows you to apply, but a higher APS increases your chances of acceptance, especially for competitive programmes.
7. Conclusion
Understanding APS requirements is essential when choosing university programmes in KwaZulu-Natal.
Universities such as:
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
- Durban University of Technology
- University of Zululand
set different APS thresholds depending on the qualification and field of study.
Typical requirements range from:
- 24 APS for certificates
- 28–32 APS for many degree programmes
- 36+ APS for competitive fields
Calculate your APS early, strengthen weak subjects and aim above the minimum requirement to improve your chances of admission for the 2027 university intake.
