The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) selects undergraduate students using an Academic Performance Score (APS), along with minimum levels in specific subjects. For each programme, UKZN publishes an APS range within which it makes its selections. The figures below come from UKZN's 2027 undergraduate prospectus.
How UKZN calculates your APS
UKZN adds up the performance ratings of six subjects. It leaves out Life Orientation, although many programmes still require Life Orientation at level 4. Mathematics Paper 3 does not count as a full subject. To reward excellence, UKZN gives eight points, rather than seven, to any subject where you score 90% to 100%. As a result, the highest possible UKZN APS is 48.
If you took more than seven subjects, UKZN uses the best six, apart from Life Orientation, and it gives no bonus points for extra subjects.
APS ranges for popular UKZN programmes
Each range shows the band within which UKZN selects. The lower number is the minimum, and competition often pushes the real cut-off higher.
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB): 48 to 32, with English at level 5 (home language) or 6 (first additional language)
- BCom Accounting: 48 to 32, with Mathematics at level 5
- BCom (General): 48 to 30, with English and Mathematics at level 4
- Bachelor of Business Science in Finance or Investment Science: 48 to 33, with Mathematics at level 6
- BSc Engineering: 48 to 33
- Bachelor of Pharmacy: 48 to 33
- Bachelor of Optometry: 48 to 33
- Bachelor of Nursing: an APS of 30, with English and Life Sciences requirements
- BEd: a minimum of 28 points
- Bachelor of Social Work: at least 28
- Bachelor of Administration: 48 to 26, with Mathematics at level 3
- BSc Agriculture (Agribusiness): 48 to 28
- Bachelor of Sport Science: 48 to 30
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies: an APS of at least 30 with Mathematics at level 5, plus a portfolio of creative work
Extended programmes
UKZN offers extended four-year curricula for students whose marks fall a little short. For example, the extended BCom (General) selects from an APS of 26 with Mathematics at level 3, and the extended BCom Accounting from 28 with Mathematics at level 4.
Early offers and choice limits
UKZN may make early, conditional offers based on excellent Grade 11 results, or on Grade 12 mid-year or trial results. Final offers come only once the National Senior Certificate results are out in January. For many health sciences programmes, UKZN considers only applicants who list them among their first three CAO choices.
Medicine
The MBChB at the Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine has its own selection process and an earlier closing date of 30 June. It does not consider international applications. Applicants with a Senior Certificate from before 2008 are assessed on matriculation points instead of the NSC APS.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest APS at UKZN?
It is 48, because UKZN gives eight points for any subject at 90% or above.
What APS do I need for BCom Accounting at UKZN?
UKZN selects from an APS range of 48 to 32, with Mathematics at level 5.
Does UKZN count Life Orientation?
No, Life Orientation earns no points, although many programmes require it at level 4.