aps

What APS Score Do You Need for Nursing in South Africa?

APS requirements for nursing programmes at UKZN, UCT, Wits, UP, UJ, and other SA universities. Find out if you qualify.

nursingapshealthcareadmission requirements

Nursing is one of the most popular — and most competitive — programmes at South African universities. If you’re asking “what APS do I need for nursing?”, the answer depends on which university you apply to.

APS Requirements for Nursing by University

UniversityProgrammeMinimum APS
UKZNBachelor of Nursing26
WitsBachelor of Nursing26
UCTBachelor of Nursing30
UPBachelor of Nursing26
UJBachelor of Nursing26
StellenboschBachelor of Nursing26
NWUBachelor of Nursing26
DUTBHSc in Nursing26
UFSBachelor of Nursing26

Important: Meeting the minimum APS does not guarantee admission. Nursing programmes are highly competitive and spaces are limited. Universities often admit students with APS scores well above the minimum.

Subject Requirements for Nursing

Most nursing programmes require:

  • English (Home Language or First Additional): NSC Level 4 (50-59%)
  • Life Sciences: NSC Level 4 (50-59%) — strongly recommended
  • Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: Requirements vary. Most accept Maths Literacy at Level 4+, but some prefer pure Mathematics

Use our APS Calculator to calculate your exact score, or try the Admission Checker to see if you meet the requirements for specific nursing programmes.

Universities Offering Nursing

Nursing programmes are offered at most SA universities including UKZN, UCT, Wits, UP, UJ, Stellenbosch, NWU, UFS, DUT, WSU, UL, and Univen. Each has different APS requirements and subject prerequisites.

What If Your APS Is Too Low?

If your APS doesn’t meet the nursing requirement:

  1. Consider a Higher Certificate in Nursing or Enrolled Nursing programme at a TVET college
  2. Look at universities with lower APS thresholds like WSU or Univen
  3. Use our What Can I Study tool to find other healthcare programmes you qualify for

Career Prospects

Nurses are on South Africa’s critical skills list. Starting salaries range from R18,000 to R25,000 per month. With experience and specialization, registered nurses can earn R35,000 to R60,000+ per month.

Ready to check your eligibility? Use the Admission Checker to see if you qualify for nursing at your chosen university.

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Universities That Accept APS 24 — What Can You Study?

Which SA universities accept an APS of 24? Find courses and programmes available with a low APS score, including diplomas and access programmes.

Universities That Accept APS 28 — Your Options

What can you study with an APS of 28? Find degree and diploma programmes at SA universities that accept an APS of 28, including BCom, BSc, BEd, and BA programmes.

Need to calculate your APS?

Use our free APS calculator to see which courses you qualify for.

Calculate Your APS →