Applying to the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) and unsure about how to calculate your Admission Point Score (APS)? Don’t worry – we’ve made it easy! This guide will walk you through the steps of calculating your APS and understanding the requirements for admission at Wits.
Table of Contents
What is the APS System?
The Admission Point Score (APS) system is used by Wits to evaluate whether prospective students meet the minimum academic requirements for their chosen program. Your APS is calculated using your National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent Grade 12 results.
How the APS is Calculated
To calculate your APS, you’ll need to follow the below steps:
- Select Six Subjects: Choose six of your 20-credit subjects. Please note that Life Orientation is not included in the APS calculation.
- Assign Achievement Levels: Each subject receives a score based on your performance, ranging from 1 (lowest) to 7 (highest).
- Sum the Scores: Add the achievement levels of the six subjects to get your APS.
Example Calculation:
| Subject | NSC Achievement Level | APS |
|---|---|---|
| Language 1 | 5 | 5 |
| Language 2 | 4 | 4 |
| Mathematics | 6 | 6 |
| Physical Science | 7 | 7 |
| Life Science | 5 | 5 |
| History | 4 | 4 |
| Total APS | Â | 31 |
In this example, the total APS is 31.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible to apply for an undergraduate programme at Wits, you must meet the following criteria:
- NSC with Bachelor’s Pass: Ensure that you have an NSC with a Bachelor’s Pass, which includes passing key subjects with a minimum required score.
- APS Requirements: Different programmes at the university have varying APS requirements. Meeting the minimum APS doesn’t guarantee admission – selection is competitive, and program capacities may affect acceptance.
Application Process
If you’re ready to apply to Wits, here’s how to get started:
- Online Application: Visit the application portal to complete your application online.
- Application Fee: Pay the required application. Make sure to use the correct bank details provided during the application process.
- Contact Details: For any queries, you can reach out to Wits’ admissions office via phone or email, which you can find on the university’s website.
- Prospectus: Download the undergraduate prospectus from the university’s website for detailed information on admission requirements for specific programmes.
Special Considerations
In certain cases, your APS calculation might require additional steps. Here are a few important factors to keep in mind:
1. Alternative Qualifications: If you have qualifications other than the NSC, such as A-levels or an International Baccalaureate (IB), Wits will evaluate them according to their guidelines. You may need to provide additional documentation for this assessment.
2. International Students: Prospective international students should check with the university’s international office to understand their specific APS requirements and any additional steps.
Additional Tips
When applying to Wits, there are a few extra factors to consider that could influence your admission process:
- National Benchmark Tests (NBT): Wits may require applicants to take NBTs as part of the admissions process. These tests help evaluate academic readiness for university studies.
- Extended Degree Programmes: If your APS is slightly lower than required for a particular programme, the university offers extended degree programmes that provide extra support over an additional study year.
Need Help with Funding?
After working out your APS and submitting your application, you may start looking for funding options while waiting for your acceptance.
That’s where Fundi steps in! Fundi offers study loans that can cover a wide range of educational expenses, including tuition fees, textbooks, study devices, and more.
Want to know if you qualify? Try out our Fundi Loan Calculator and kickstart your academic journey today.
Now that you know how to calculate your APS for Wits, you can confidently apply and take the first step towards your academic future. Best of luck!
