The University of Pretoria (UP) uses an Admission Point Score (APS) system to screen undergraduate applicants — and because the required score varies significantly by faculty, checking the generic “APS 28-30” figure you’ll see quoted everywhere isn’t enough if you’re applying to a competitive programme.
Figures reflect general published guidance for the 2027 intake as of August 2026 — confirm current requirements for your specific programme directly at up.ac.za before applying, since faculties review thresholds periodically.
How APS is calculated
UP calculates your APS from your National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Independent Examinations Board (IEB) results, using your best subjects according to the university’s specific counting rules — not simply every subject you passed. Each subject’s percentage converts to a numerical level, and those levels sum to your total APS score.
APS thresholds by faculty
Requirements vary considerably by programme competitiveness: general degree programmes typically require an APS in the 28-30 range, while competitive and professional programmes require significantly more. Some reference points: Engineering programmes generally require APS 35 plus at least level 6 in Mathematics and Physical Sciences; Medicine (MBChB) requires APS 35 with level 5 English and level 6 Mathematics/Physical Sciences; Law (LLB) requires APS 35 with level 6 English; BCom Accounting Sciences requires around APS 34; and Actuarial Science sits at the top with APS 36. Nursing Science is on the lower end at around APS 28. Confirm your specific programme’s current exact requirement directly, since these are reviewed periodically and meeting the minimum APS doesn’t guarantee admission for selective programmes.
Subject-level requirements matter as much as your total score
Most programmes require English (Home Language or First Additional Language) at a minimum achievement level, commonly level 4-6 depending on the programme, and competitive fields specifically require level 5 or 6 in Mathematics and Physical Sciences — not just a strong overall APS. A high total APS built on weaker performance in a specifically required subject can still fall short of a programme’s actual requirement, so check subject-level minimums for your target programme individually, not just the headline APS number.
Beyond APS: additional selection criteria
For the most competitive and professional programmes — Medicine, Law, Engineering, and similar — meeting the APS and subject minimums gets you into consideration, not automatic admission. Some programmes layer on additional criteria such as interviews, aptitude tests, or portfolio submissions. Confirm whether your target programme has any additional selection step beyond the academic score, since missing a required interview or test is an entirely avoidable way to lose a place you otherwise qualified for.
Building your UP application
Once you’ve confirmed your APS eligibility, see University of Pretoria 2027 Online Application: Deadlines and Step-by-Step Guide for the application process itself, and University of Pretoria Fees and NSFAS Funding Guide for the funding side.