North-West University (NWU) admits students based on their Admission Point Score (APS), their marks in key subjects and, for some programmes, extra selection criteria. Each programme sets its own minimum APS and lists the campuses where it runs. The figures below come from the NWU's 2027 undergraduate study pages.
How the NWU calculates your APS
The NWU uses six subjects to calculate your APS and leaves out Life Orientation. If you are in Grade 12, the university assesses you on your final Grade 11 results. When you meet the requirements, it makes you a conditional offer, and you must then achieve similar results in your final National Senior Certificate to secure your place.
Minimum APS for popular NWU programmes
- BCom in Chartered Accountancy (CA): APS 32, with Mathematics at level 5
- BCom in Chartered Accountancy, extended programme: APS 28, with Mathematics at level 3
- BCom in Forensic Accountancy: APS 36, with Mathematics at level 5
- BCom in Management Accountancy: APS 30
- BCom in Financial Accountancy: APS 28, with Mathematics at level 4
- BCom in Accounting: APS 24, with Mathematics at level 3
- LLB: APS 30, with level 5 in both your home language and first additional language
- BA in Law: APS 28
- BEng: APS 34, with at least 70% in Mathematics and Physical Sciences in your final Grade 12 results
- Bachelor of Pharmacy: APS 32, with Mathematics and Physical Sciences at level 5
- Biokinetics: APS 32
- Bachelor of Social Work: APS 28
- Nursing: APS 25
- BEd programmes: APS 26
- BSc programmes: APS 26, or 24 for the extended BSc
Language and subject requirements
Most NWU programmes also ask for a minimum level in the language of tuition, usually level 4 (50% to 59%). The commerce degrees set specific Mathematics levels, and some, such as the extended Financial Accountancy programme, accept Mathematical Literacy only at level 7. Check the requirements for your exact programme on the NWU study pages.
Selection programmes
Some programmes have limited capacity, so the NWU selects students rather than admitting everyone who meets the minimum. These include Pharmacy and Biokinetics, where selection is based on academic performance and the best average mark. Programmes in Law also use a placement process. For these, a strong APS improves your chances but does not guarantee a place.
Check your campus
The NWU runs programmes at Potchefstroom, Mahikeng and Vanderbijlpark, but not every programme is available at every campus. For example, the BCom in Accounting is offered at Vanderbijlpark, while Pharmacy and Biokinetics run at Potchefstroom. Some programmes are available through distance learning as well.
Meeting the minimum is not a guarantee
The NWU says that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, and that its admission decisions are final, with no appeals. So apply early and choose your two study options carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What APS do I need for BCom Chartered Accountancy at the NWU?
You need an APS of 32 with Mathematics at level 5, or 28 for the extended programme.
Does the NWU count Life Orientation?
No. The NWU calculates your APS on six subjects and excludes Life Orientation.
Can I appeal an NWU admission decision?
No. The NWU says that its admission decisions are final and that no appeals are allowed.