Are you thinking of applying to Wits University in 2026? Whether you’ve completed the NSC, NCV, or hold an international school-leaving qualification, it’s important to understand the admission requirements before submitting your application. Wits University, one of South Africa’s most prestigious institutions, has specific entry rules based on your academic background and APS (Admission Points Score).
This guide explains which qualifications are accepted, how your APS is calculated, and which subjects are essential depending on your chosen faculty.
Accepted School-Leaving Qualifications
To apply for undergraduate studies at Wits, you must hold one of the following:
1. National Senior Certificate (NSC)
Issued by the Department of Basic Education (DBE), Independent Examinations Board (IEB), or South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute (SACAI).
Applicants must achieve a Bachelor’s Degree pass and meet faculty-specific subject requirements.
2. National Certificate (Vocational) (NCV)
Accepted only for certain programmes. Must be accompanied by a Bachelor’s pass and relevant subjects.
3. Senior Certificate (Amended)
Accepted for mature students or those who completed school prior to the NSC implementation.
4. International Qualifications
Includes Cambridge, IB, and other foreign credentials. These must meet equivalency standards as defined by the South African Matriculation Board.
Important Notes
- Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Wits has a limited number of first-year spaces approved by the Department of Higher Education and Training.
- Final admission depends on academic performance, faculty quotas, and subject-specific criteria.
- Only one Matric upgrade attempt is allowed. A second rewrite will disqualify your application.
Wits APS (Admission Points Score) Calculation
Wits uses a points-based system to assess applicants. The calculation is based on the best seven subjects, including Life Orientation and all faculty-specific required subjects.
Key APS Guidelines
- English is compulsory (either Home Language or First Additional Language).
- Mathematics is required for numerate programmes in:
- Commerce
- Law and Management
- Engineering and the Built Environment
- Science
- Most Health Sciences programmes
- Mathematical Literacy is accepted only for:
- LLB (Law)
- Education
- Humanities (except Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology)
- Wits does not differentiate between designated and non-designated subjects for APS.
Wits APS Scoring Table
| Wits APS | NSC % | APS (English + Math) | Life Orientation | Other Subjects |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 90–100 | 8 + 2 = 10 | 4 | 8 |
| 7 | 80–89 | 7 + 2 = 9 | 3 | 7 |
| 6 | 70–79 | 6 + 2 = 8 | 2 | 6 |
| 5 | 60–69 | 5 + 2 = 7 | 1 | 5 |
| 4 | 50–59 | 4 | 0 | 4 |
| 3 | 40–49 | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| 2 or below | <40% | 0 | 0 | 0 |
NSC Scale of Achievement
| Level | Percentage |
|---|---|
| 7 | 80 – 99% |
| 6 | 70 – 79% |
| 5 | 60 – 69% |
| 4 | 50 – 59% |
| 3 | 40 – 49% |
| 2 | 30 – 39% |
| 1 | 0 – 29% |
Final Tips Before You Apply
- Always check faculty-specific admission requirements in the online course guide.
- Ensure that you submit all required documents, including your final results and ID.
- If you’re applying with international or NCV qualifications, consult the Wits Guide for Applicants or contact the admissions office for tailored advice.
Conclusion
Understanding your APS score and entry requirements is the first step toward gaining admission to Wits University. Be honest about your subject choices, calculate your points accurately, and apply early. Remember, even if you meet the minimum requirements, space is limited and competition is high.
For more info, visit the official Wits website or check the course-specific pages for updates.
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