Abridged Knowledge 035 – Your Definitive Guide
APS Calculator and Subject Guide For South Africa
The APS (Admission Point Score) calculator turns your matric marks into points used by South African universities to determine admission. It helps you see where you stand and what you need to reach your goal.
Select your grade level below – each option tailors the tool to your stage:
Understanding Grade 10 Choices (FET Phase)
From Grade 10-12 (FET Phase), you need to take 4 compulsory subjects and choose 3 elective subjects. Schools often group electives into suggested "focus areas" below.
Sciences
Doctor, Engineer, Architect.
Commerce
Accountant, Lawyer, Business.
Humanities & Arts
Teacher, Psychologist, Designer.
Technical / Vocational
Artisan, Design, Technician.
Electives for
Important: Not all schools offer every subject. Check with your school's timetable or subject choice form before finalising your choices.
Tip: Remember you still need your 4 compulsory subjects (Home Lang, FAL, Math/Math Lit, LO) plus 3 electives.
My Grade 10 Subject Choice
Generated on AK035 Study Guide
Compulsory
- Home Language
- First Additional Language
- Mathematics / Math Lit
- Life Orientation
Stream Focus
FET Structure
4 compulsory + 3 electives
Target Calculator (Grade 11 Only)
See what mark you need in your next test.
The FET Phase: The Rules of the Game
Whether you do NSC, IEB, or SACAI, this is the structure of Grade 10-12 and how you qualify for university or TVET.
Compulsory (4 subjects)
You must take these no matter what your stream is.
- Home Language: English, IsiZulu, Afrikaans, etc.
- First Additional Language (FAL): A second language.
- Mathematics OR Math Literacy: Pure maths is needed for science degrees.
- Life Orientation: Social-emotional skills.
Electives (3+ subjects)
Choose these based on your career path. Schools group them into "streams".
- Sciences: Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, IT, CAT.
- Commerce: Accounting, Business Studies, Economics, Tourism.
- Arts & Humanities: History, Geography, Drama, Visual Arts.
- Technical: EGD, Civil/Elec/Mech Tech.
Minimum Requirements to Pass FET
The rules to get your National Senior Certificate (NSC).
1. Degree Study
University Entry
- • 40% in Home Language.
- • 50% in four other subjects (not LO).
- • 30% in one other subject.
- • Pass at least 6 of 7 subjects.
Important:
You need 30% in the language of the university (LOLT). Some degrees (like Medicine) need specific subject requirements (e.g., Maths & Physical Science at Level 6).
2. Diploma Study
University of Technology
- • 40% in Home Language.
- • 40% in three other subjects (not LO).
- • 30% in two other subjects.
- • Pass at least 6 of 7 subjects.
3. Higher Certificate
The Stepping Stone
- • 40% in Home Language.
- • 40% in two other subjects.
- • 30% in four other subjects.
- • Pass at least 6 of 7 subjects.
"You can upgrade to a Diploma or Degree after passing this course. Do not give up."