The University of Venda (Univen) admits students based on an Admission Point Score (APS) and the subject requirements of each programme. The minimum APS for any bachelor's degree is 26, and many programmes ask for more. The figures below come from Univen's 2027 prospectus and its faculty pages.
How Univen calculates your APS
Univen turns your percentages into points on a 10-point scale for each subject. For example, a mark of 65% earns about 6.5 points, and a mark of 92% earns about 9.2. Subjects below 40% earn no points, and Life Orientation is not counted. If your results show more than seven subjects, Univen uses only the seven with the highest marks.
Minimum APS for popular Univen programmes
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB): 38
- Bachelor of Nursing: 38
- Bachelor of Education (Foundation Phase or Senior and FET Phase): 36
- BCom in Accounting Sciences: 35
- Bachelor of Social Work: 35
- Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning: 35
- Bachelor of Earth Sciences in Mining and Environmental Geology: 35
- BCom in Accounting, Economics, Business Management or Human Resource Management: 32
- Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice: 34
- Bachelor of Arts programmes: 30
- BSc programmes, including Computer Science: 26
- BSc in Agriculture programmes: 26
Subject requirements
Each programme also lists the subjects it needs. For example, the BSc in Computer Science asks for a bachelor's pass and level 4 (50% to 59%) or better in English, Mathematics, Physical Sciences and Life Sciences, or another subject that the faculty approves. The BA in Development Studies asks for level 4 in English and in History or Economics. So check your programme's page before you apply.
Extended programmes
If your APS falls just short, Univen offers extended programmes in commerce and the sciences. These add support in your first year. For example, the extended BCom programmes start from an APS of 28, and several extended BSc programmes from 24 to 26. Applicants with an APS of 28 to 31 may be considered for some extended commerce programmes.
Diplomas
Univen also offers some diplomas, such as the Diploma in Nursing, which needs an APS of 28. A diploma can be a good route if you do not meet the requirements for a degree.
Documents for selection
If you are in Grade 12, Univen assesses you on your Grade 11 final (term 4) results, stamped by your school. If you studied at another institution, it also needs your academic record and a certificate of good conduct. International applicants need a SAQA evaluation certificate.
Meeting the minimum
Univen stresses that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to any programme, because places are limited. Its Senate can also review the minimum points from time to time. So apply early, and choose programmes where your APS sits comfortably above the minimum.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum APS at Univen?
The minimum for a bachelor's degree is 26, and many programmes ask for more.
Does Univen count Life Orientation?
No. Life Orientation and subjects below 40% are not counted.
What APS do I need for law at Univen?
The Bachelor of Laws needs an APS of 38.