Understanding your Admission Point Scores

Understanding your admission point score (AP Score)

Although university or college may seem far away, it's essential to educate yourself early about entrance requirements for the courses you’re interested in. A key component of these requirements is the Admission Point Score (AP Score). Here’s what you need to know:

What is an AP Score?

The AP Score is the Admission Point Score, a critical metric used by most tertiary institutions to assess your eligibility for various courses. This score is derived from the level descriptors on your school report, translating your academic performance into a numerical value.

How is it Calculated?

Tertiary institutions use the codes on your school report to calculate the AP Score. This number then becomes the minimum entry requirement for a particular course. However, it's important to note that the calculation method for the AP Score can vary significantly from one institution to another.

Key Considerations for AP Scores

Additional Requirements:

• Some courses may have additional requirements beyond the AP Score, such as:

  • A minimum mark in English, Mathematics, or Physical Sciences.

  • Completion of a National Benchmark Test.

  • Submission of a portfolio of work.

Bonus Points:

• Some institutions award bonus points for higher results in subjects like English and Mathematics, potentially boosting your overall score.

Treatment of Life Orientation:

• Not all universities treat Life Orientation the same way:

  • Some ignore it completely.

  • Others halve the mark for the AP Score.

  • Some give it the same point score as other subjects.

Important Considerations for Course Eligibility

• Mathematics: Without a core Mathematics mark above 60%, courses that require core Mathematics (e.g., Engineering, Science, or Accounting) are likely out of reach.

• Minimum Marks: At Wits, for example, a mark below 40% does not contribute any points to the AP Score.

• Basic Entry Requirements: At Wits, a learner with all subjects at 60% achieves an AP Score of 35. Entry into the BA Humanities course requires 34 points.

• Maximizing Your Score: To gain entry into a basic university course, all your marks need to be above 60%. Higher scores (70s, 80s, and 90s) offer more degree course options.

• Subject Relevance: Except for English, Mathematics, and Physical Sciences, most courses do not require specific subjects. The primary goal is to achieve the required AP Score, regardless of the subjects taken.

Strategic Subject Selection

Choosing your subjects strategically is crucial for maximising your AP Score. Focus on subjects that play to your strengths and allow you to achieve the highest possible marks. This approach not only helps meet the minimum entry requirements but also broadens your options for various degree courses.

By understanding how the AP Score works and planning your subject choices accordingly, you can set yourself up for success in gaining entry to your desired university or college courses. Start early, stay informed, and aim high to ensure you have the best possible chance of meeting your academic and career goals.