To study at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), you need a National Senior Certificate with the right subjects and a high enough Admission Point Score, or APS. Each programme sets its own minimum APS and subject levels. The figures below come from UJ's 2027 undergraduate prospectus, so use them to check whether your results are on track.
How UJ calculates your APS
UJ adds up the achievement ratings of six school subjects to get your APS. Life Orientation is not counted. For example, a level 5 (60% to 69%) earns 5 points, and a level 7 (80% or more) earns 7 points. The prospectus gives an example of a learner with 65% in a home language, 71% in a second language, 61% in Mathematics, 68% in Accounting, 81% in History and 86% in Geography, for a total of 35.
UJ can use your Grade 11 results or your Grade 12 results for selection. So strong Grade 11 marks can earn you an early offer, but you must still meet the requirements in your final exams.
Minimum APS for popular UJ programmes
- BCom Accounting (CA): APS 33
- BCom Accounting: APS 28
- BCom Finance: APS 28
- BCom Business Management: APS 26
- LLB: APS 31 with Mathematics, or 32 with Mathematical Literacy
- BEng Civil, Electrical or Mechanical Engineering: APS 32
- BSc Information Technology: APS 30
- BSc Actuarial Science: APS 40
- Bachelor of Nursing: APS 30
- Bachelor of Optometry: APS 34
- BEd Foundation Phase Teaching: APS 28
- Bachelor of Architecture: APS 30
Subject requirements
The APS is only part of the picture, because most programmes also set minimum levels in specific subjects. For instance, the BCom degrees in Accounting and Finance do not accept Mathematical Literacy. The main BEng degrees ask for level 5 (60% or more) in English, Mathematics and Physical Sciences. Meanwhile, the BSc in Information Technology asks for level 6 (70% or more) in Mathematics.
Science programmes that combine subjects, such as Chemistry and Physics, often ask for level 6 in Mathematics and level 5 in Physical Sciences. So check the table for your exact programme in the prospectus before you apply.
Extended programmes
If your marks fall short of a mainstream degree, UJ offers extended programmes in several faculties. These take an extra year, because they add foundation modules. For example, the extended BSc in Computer Science and Informatics asks for an APS of 26, and the extended engineering technology degrees start from an APS of 22 to 26.
Meeting the minimum is not a guarantee
UJ has a set number of first-year places that the Department of Higher Education and Training approves. Therefore, meeting the minimum APS does not guarantee you a place, and popular programmes often admit students with higher scores.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does UJ count Life Orientation in the APS?
No. UJ adds up six subjects and leaves out Life Orientation.
What APS do I need for BCom Accounting at UJ?
BCom Accounting needs an APS of 28, and the CA stream needs 33. Neither accepts Mathematical Literacy.
Can I get into UJ with Mathematical Literacy?
Yes, for some programmes. For example, the LLB accepts it with an APS of 32, but many BCom, science and engineering degrees do not.