Nelson Mandela University does not use the seven-point APS. Instead, it calculates an Applicant Score (AS) from your actual percentages, out of a possible 600. Each programme sets a minimum AS and subject requirements, and the required score changes depending on whether you took Mathematics, Technical Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy. The figures below come from the university's undergraduate guide.
How the Applicant Score works
Your AS is the sum of the percentages for six 20-credit subjects. Life Orientation is left out, because it is a 10-credit subject. You must include three fundamental subjects: your home language, your first additional language, and Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy or Technical Mathematics. Use your most recent Grade 12 results, but not your March results.
If you take eight or more subjects, the university adds your three fundamental subjects, any subjects that your programme requires, and your best remaining subjects to make six. Many programmes then ask for a higher AS from applicants with Mathematical Literacy than from those with Mathematics.
Minimum Applicant Scores for popular programmes
- MBChB (Medicine): about 430, with Mathematics
- BCom in Accounting (Chartered Accountancy stream): about 410, with Mathematics
- BPharm: about 410
- BSc degrees: about 410, or about 370 for the extended BSc
- BEng Mechatronics: about 410
- Most BCom degrees: about 390, or about 370 for the extended BCom
- LLB: about 390 with Mathematics, or about 370 for the extended LLB
- BEd programmes: about 350 with Mathematics, or 365 with Mathematical Literacy
- Bachelor of Social Work: about 350 with Mathematics, or 365 with Mathematical Literacy
- Bachelor of Nursing: about 330 with Mathematics, or 345 with Mathematical Literacy
- Diplomas in business and tourism fields: from about 330 with Mathematics, or 345 with Mathematical Literacy
Basic requirements
For a degree, you need at least 30% in the language of learning and teaching, and a rating of 4 (50% to 59%) in four 20-credit NSC subjects. Each programme then adds its own subject requirements, such as Mathematics and Physical Sciences for engineering and the sciences.
Two-step selection
Admission happens in two steps. First, you must meet the minimum AS and subject requirements. Then, in January, the university makes its final selection, based on your Applicant Score, your subject results and the number of places. Applicants with the highest scores receive priority until all places are filled.
Provisional admission
The university may make provisional offers based on your Grade 11 results, or your Grade 12 June or September results. If your score falls below the minimum, consider an extended programme or a related diploma. Some creative programmes, such as Architectural Design, Interior Design and Visual Arts, also need a portfolio and an online interview.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Nelson Mandela University use APS?
No. It uses an Applicant Score, which adds your percentages for six subjects, out of 600.
Does it count Life Orientation?
No. Life Orientation is excluded from the Applicant Score.
What score do I need for medicine?
The MBChB needs an Applicant Score of about 430, with Mathematics.