# APS calculator

> A common way to work out your APS (Admission Point Score) is to convert each subject’s final percentage to its NSC achievement level from 1 to 7 and add up the levels of six subjects, leaving out Life Orientation, for a maximum of 42.

- Page: https://www.hlayiso.com/aps-calculator
- Updated: 2026-10-28
- Highest score on this scale: 42
- Subjects counted: 6, excluding Life Orientation

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## What is an APS?

An Admission Point Score (APS) is a number South African universities use to compare applicants’ National Senior Certificate (NSC) results. Universities usually publish a minimum APS for each programme, alongside minimum levels for particular subjects.

## How are percentages converted to NSC levels?

Every NSC subject result is reported on a seven-point scale of achievement. The bands below are the National Senior Certificate scale for Grades 10 to 12.

| Level | Rating | Percentage |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 7 | Outstanding achievement | 80–100% |
| 6 | Meritorious achievement | 70–79% |
| 5 | Substantial achievement | 60–69% |
| 4 | Adequate achievement | 50–59% |
| 3 | Moderate achievement | 40–49% |
| 2 | Elementary achievement | 30–39% |
| 1 | Not achieved | 0–29% |

## How does this calculator work out the APS?

It follows the most common method, step by step:

1. Enter the final percentage for each of your six subjects other than Life Orientation.

2. Each percentage is converted to its NSC level, from 1 (0–29%) to 7 (80–100%).

3. The six levels are added up. The highest possible score is 42.

4. Life Orientation is shown with its level but not added, because this method leaves it out. Check how each university treats it.

## Do all universities calculate APS the same way?

No. Each university, and often each faculty, sets its own rules: which subjects count, whether Life Orientation counts, how many points each level is worth and the minimum APS and subject levels for each programme. Use this score as a guide only, and check the current prospectus of every university you apply to.

## Universities, programmes and bursaries

Matric2Campus, from the Hlayiso team, lists South African universities, programmes and bursaries, with APS and subject requirements, closing dates and how to apply.

- [Matric2Campus](https://www.matric2campus.com)
- [Grade 12 past papers and memos](https://www.hlayiso.com/grade-12/past-papers)
- [Grade 12 Mathematics questions by topic](https://www.hlayiso.com/grade-12/mathematics/questions-by-topic)
- [Grade 12 Mathematics notes](https://www.hlayiso.com/grade-12/mathematics/notes)

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