If you’re planning to study at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) in 2027, one of the most important things you need to understand is the Admission Point Score (APS). Your APS determines whether you qualify for your chosen course, so knowing how it works can help you prepare better and increase your chances of acceptance.
What is APS at TUT?
The Admission Point Score (APS) is a system used by TUT to measure your academic performance based on your Grade 12 results. Each subject you pass is awarded points depending on your percentage, and these points are added together to give you your final APS.
TUT uses APS to:
- Assess if you meet minimum entry requirements
- Compare applicants fairly
- Select students for competitive programmes
How APS is Calculated at TUT
Your APS is calculated using your best six subjects, excluding Life Orientation.
APS Breakdown (NSC Levels)
| Percentage | Level | APS Points |
|---|---|---|
| 80–100% | 7 | 7 points |
| 70–79% | 6 | 6 points |
| 60–69% | 5 | 5 points |
| 50–59% | 4 | 4 points |
| 40–49% | 3 | 3 points |
| 30–39% | 2 | 2 points |
| 0–29% | 1 | 1 point |
Example Calculation
If your results are:
- English: 65% → 5 points
- Mathematics: 70% → 6 points
- Physical Science: 60% → 5 points
- Geography: 55% → 4 points
- Life Sciences: 62% → 5 points
- Business Studies: 58% → 4 points
APS = 5 + 6 + 5 + 4 + 5 + 4 = 29
Minimum APS Requirements at TUT
APS requirements vary depending on the course you want to study.
General Guidelines:
- Higher Certificate: APS 18 – 20
- Diploma: APS 20 – 24
- Bachelor’s Degree: APS 24 – 30+
Some competitive programmes (like Engineering or Health Sciences) may require:
- Higher APS scores
- Specific subjects like Mathematics or Physical Sciences
Important Admission Requirements
To qualify for admission at TUT, you must have:
1. National Senior Certificate (NSC)
- Must meet the minimum APS
- Must have the correct subject combinations
2. English Requirement
- English is compulsory
- Usually requires at least Level 4 (50%) or higher
3. Subject Requirements
Some courses require:
- Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy)
- Physical Sciences
- Accounting or specific subjects
Does Meeting APS Guarantee Admission?
No. Meeting the minimum APS does not guarantee acceptance.
Admission depends on:
- Number of available spaces
- Competition for the programme
- Your subject performance
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Aim for a higher APS than the minimum
- Choose the right subjects early (Grade 10–12)
- Apply as early as possible
- Apply for multiple courses
Why APS is Important
Understanding APS helps you:
- Choose the right course
- Know where you qualify
- Avoid rejection due to low scores
It also helps you plan ahead and improve your results before final exams.
Final Thoughts
The TUT APS system is simple but very important for your university application in 2027. Always check the specific APS requirements for your chosen course and aim to score higher than the minimum.
If you prepare well and understand how APS works, you’ll be in a much better position to secure your place at TUT.