The University of Limpopo (UL) uses a structured admission system based on your Admission Point Score (APS) and subject requirements.
To be considered for admission in 2027, applicants must meet both general admission requirements and faculty-specific requirements.
1. National Senior Certificate (NSC) Requirements
If you completed Grade 12 with an NSC (Bachelor pass), you must meet the following:
- Life Orientation: Minimum Level 3 (40–49%)
- English (language of learning): Minimum Level 3 (40–49%)
- Degree programmes:
- At least 4 subjects at Level 4 (50–59%) or higher
- Diploma programmes:
- At least 4 subjects at Level 3 (40–49%) or higher
- Meet the required APS score for your chosen programme
Note: Meeting the minimum APS does not guarantee admission.
2. Matric Certificate (Before 2008)
Applicants who completed Grade 12 before 2008 can still apply using a:
- Senior Certificate with university exemption
Your results will be converted into an APS score for evaluation.
3. National Certificate (Vocational) – NC(V)
Applicants with an NC(V) Level 4 qualification must meet the following:
For Degree Programmes:
- 3 fundamental subjects (including Life Orientation) at 60%
- 4 relevant vocational subjects at 70%
For Diploma Programmes:
- 3 fundamental subjects at 50%
- 3 vocational subjects at 60%
All applications are subject to faculty requirements and placement tests.
4. How APS is Calculated at UL
The APS system helps determine if you qualify for admission.
APS Calculation Method:
- Use your best 6 subjects (excluding Life Orientation)
- Convert your marks into APS points
- Add all points together
APS Points Table (NSC)
| Percentage | APS Points |
|---|---|
| 80–100% | 7 points |
| 70–79% | 6 points |
| 60–69% | 5 points |
| 50–59% | 4 points |
| 40–49% | 3 points |
| 30–39% | 2 points |
| 0–29% | 1 point |
Example APS Calculation
If your marks are:
- English: 65% → 5 points
- Mathematics: 70% → 6 points
- Life Sciences: 60% → 5 points
- Physical Sciences: 55% → 4 points
- Geography: 50% → 4 points
- Business Studies: 68% → 5 points
Total APS:
5 + 6 + 5 + 4 + 4 + 5 = 29 APS
5. Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECP)
UL offers Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECP) for students who:
- Meet minimum requirements but need additional academic support
- Want an extra year to complete their degree
These programmes help students succeed academically.
6. Selection Tests for Certain Programmes
Some programmes require additional assessments, including:
- Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
- Bachelor of Education (Foundation Phase)
- Bachelor of Psychology (BPsych)
- Medicine programmes
Admission depends on both APS and selection test performance.
Important Things to Remember
- APS is calculated using 6 subjects only
- Life Orientation is not included in APS
- Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission
- Each faculty may have additional requirements
Final Thoughts
Understanding the University of Limpopo APS and admission requirements for 2027 is essential for every applicant.
Make sure you:
- Calculate your APS early
- Choose programmes you qualify for
- Meet both general and faculty-specific requirements
Planning ahead will increase your chances of being accepted into your preferred programme at UL.