How to Calculate Your APS at Sol Plaatje University (SPU)

Worked example

Let's say Thando is applying to SPU with these marks:

• Subject points: 5 + 4 + 6 + 6 + 5 + 4 = 30

• Bonus points: 2 (English HL) + 1 (Mathematics) = 3

• LO points: 2

• Total SPU APS: 30 + 3 + 2 = 35

With 35 points, Thando meets the minimum APS of 30 for SPU's degrees. But APS isn't the only requirement. For a BSc, Thando would also need Physical Sciences at level 4, which isn't one of their subjects. A BA or a BEd in the Intermediate Phase (Languages, Social Sciences and Life Skills) would be a better fit.

Tip: want to check your points for other universities too? Try FundiConnect's APS calculator.

Minimum APS for SPU Programmes

All programmes below also need English Home Language at level 4 or English First Additional Language at level 5.

Higher certificates and diplomas (minimum APS 25)

Degrees (minimum APS 30)

Bachelor of Education (minimum APS 30)

Source: SPU 2027 Undergraduate Prospectus. Meeting the minimum APS doesn't guarantee a place, because SPU has limited space in each programme.

What If Your APS Is Too Low?

Don't give up. You still have options:

• Look at a programme with a lower minimum. SPU's higher certificates and diplomas need an APS of 25 instead of 30, and some can lead on to further study later.

• Check the subject requirements again. Sometimes your APS is high enough, but one subject level is too low. A different programme may suit your subjects better.

• Improve your marks. If you're in matric, your final exam results can lift your APS. If you've already finished school, you can look into upgrading your marks through a matric rewrite.

• Apply to a TVET college. TVET colleges offer practical, career-focused courses. See our list of TVET colleges still open for 2027, plus July intakes.

Applying to SPU for 2027

SPU's 2027 undergraduate and postgraduate applications closed on 31 October 2026, according to SPU's official How to Apply page. If you've already applied, keep checking your email and your application for updates.

Missed the deadline? Contact SPU's Student Recruitment office to ask whether any late applications or spaces are available:

• Email: studentrecruitment@spu.ac.za

• Phone: 053 491 0000

For the full application steps, read our guide on how to apply to Sol Plaatje University, and visit our SPU institution page.

How to Fund Your Studies at SPU

Getting into SPU is the first step. The next is working out how you'll pay for it.

• NSFAS: if you applied to NSFAS for 2027, check your progress on your myNSFAS account under Track Funding Progress. Not sure what your status means? Read our guide to NSFAS application status meanings.

• Bursaries: many companies and government departments offer bursaries for 2027. See our list of bursaries for 2027.

• Funza Lushaka Bursary: if you're applying for a BEd, you can apply for this government teaching bursary at funzalushaka.doe.gov.za.

• SPU's funding office: for funding questions, contact Ms Chrizelle Mally on 053 491 0102 or Ms Malebo Tshelane on 053 491 0366.

Need help with costs bursaries don't cover?

If you don't qualify for NSFAS, or you need help with extra costs like registration fees, textbooks or a laptop, Fundi offers education finance for students and parents. Fundi is also listed as a funding option in SPU's 2027 prospectus. Find out more about Fundi's education loans.

Fundi Capital (Pty) Ltd is a registered credit provider (NCRCP 158).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum APS for Sol Plaatje University?

Most SPU higher certificates and diplomas need an APS of 25, and most degrees need an APS of 30. Each programme also has its own subject requirements.

Does SPU count Life Orientation in the APS?

SPU uses a separate, smaller scale for Life Orientation. You earn 1 to 4 points for LO only if you get 60% or more.

Does SPU give bonus points?

Yes. SPU's points table gives up to 2 bonus points each for Mathematics and for your Home Language.

Is Mathematical Literacy accepted at SPU?

For some programmes, yes, including the BA, the higher certificates and the diplomas. It isn't accepted for the BSc, BSc in Data Science or Bachelor of Environmental Science.

When did SPU applications close for 2027?

SPU's 2027 applications closed on 31 October 2026.

Final Thoughts

Working out your SPU APS takes a few minutes, and it helps you choose programmes you actually qualify for. Convert your marks, add your bonus and LO points, and then check the subject requirements for each programme you're interested in.

We know you've got this. Good luck!

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