If you’re considering studying at the University of Fort Hare (UFH) in South Africa, one of the most important aspects to understand is the Admission Points Score (APS). This score determines whether you meet the minimum requirements to apply for various programs offered by the institution. Here’s everything you need to know about UFH’s APS requirements.
What is an APS?
The APS is a system used by South African universities to evaluate a student’s academic performance in their final high school exams. It assigns a numerical score to each grade, and these are totaled to determine eligibility for specific programs.
Minimum APS for Admission at UFH
The APS requirements at the University of Fort Hare vary depending on the faculty and program you’re applying for. Below is a breakdown of the minimum APS scores by faculty:
1. Faculty of Law
- APS Requirement:
- 26 for applicants with Mathematics
- 28 for applicants with Mathematical Literacy or Technical Mathematics
- Additional Requirements: A good score in English is essential since this faculty places a strong emphasis on language proficiency.
2. Faculty of Management and Commerce
- APS Requirement: 26
- Additional Subject Requirements:
- A minimum of a D (50–59%) or Level 4 in English Language.
- A similar level of performance in Mathematics.
3. Faculty of Health Sciences
- APS Requirement: Varies between 28 and 29 depending on the program.
- Additional Information: Health Sciences programs are highly competitive, so achieving the minimum APS doesn’t guarantee admission.
General Admission Requirements
In addition to meeting the APS score, applicants must also meet these basic requirements:
- English Proficiency: At least a Level 3 in English Home Language.
- Designated Subjects: A Level 4 or higher in four 20-credit subjects from the designated subject list (excluding Life Orientation).
- Mathematics: A suitable Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy score depending on the program.
- Mature Age Applicants: Those who do not meet the traditional requirements may apply for a conditional exemption from the Higher Education South Africa (HESA).
What Makes UFH Stand Out?
The University of Fort Hare offers more than just academic excellence—it provides academic performance incentives for top-performing students. High achievers may be eligible for scholarships or fee reductions, making it an attractive option for those who excel academically.
How to Calculate Your APS
- Convert your final Grade 12 marks into the APS scale (typically 1–7 points, with 7 being the highest for scores of 80%+).
- Add the points for your top six subjects (excluding Life Orientation).
- Compare your total to the specific APS requirement for your chosen UFH program.
Overview of Public Universities in South Africa
Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.
University of Pretoria
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
- Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.
University of Cape Town
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
- Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.
Stellenbosch University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
- Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.
University of the Witwatersrand
- Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
- Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.
University of Johannesburg
- Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
- Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.
University of the Free State
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.
University of Venda
- Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
- Application Period: Usually from May to September.
University of Fort Hare
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
- Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.
University of the Western Cape
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
- Application Period: Generally from May to September.
North-West University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
- Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.
Rhodes University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
- Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.
Nelson Mandela University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
- Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.
University of Limpopo
- Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
- Application Period: From April to September.
University of Zululand
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
- Application Period: Usually between April and November.
Central University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
- Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.
Vaal University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
- Application Period: Typically from May to September.
Walter Sisulu University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
- Application Period: From April to September.
This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.