Matric points (also called APS – Admission Point Score) help universities and colleges decide if you qualify for a course.
Each subject you write in your final exams gives you points, and the total shows whether you meet the entry requirements.
Here is a simple step-by-step guide on how you calculate your APS score:
Step 1: Understand the Point System
First, you need to know how many points each mark earns you. Here’s a quick guide:
| Percentage (%) | APS Points |
|---|---|
| 80% – 100% | 7 |
| 70% – 79% | 6 |
| 60% – 69% | 5 |
| 50% – 59% | 4 |
| 40% – 49% | 3 |
| 30% – 39% | 2 |
| 0% – 29% | 1 |
The higher your marks, the more points you get!
Step 2: Choose the Right Subjects
You usually calculate your points using your best six subjects. But keep in mind:
- Life Orientation is often not counted at some universities.
- Mathematics or Maths Literacy and Home Language are usually compulsory to include.
Always check what the university wants — some courses require specific subjects.
Step 3: Calculate Your Total
Now for the fun part!
Here’s how you do it:
- Write down your final percentages for each subject.
- Use the table above to find the matching APS points.
- Add up the points for your best six subjects.
Example:
Imagine you have these results:
- English (Home Language): 75% → 6 points
- Afrikaans (First Additional Language): 68% → 5 points
- Mathematics: 82% → 7 points
- Life Sciences: 70% → 6 points
- Geography: 65% → 5 points
- Physical Sciences: 72% → 6 points
- Life Orientation: 80% → (not counted)
Your APS is: 6 + 5 + 7 + 6 + 5 + 6 = 35 points
And just like that, you know your APS!
Quick Tips
- Always double-check the minimum APS needed for your chosen course.
- Some universities add extra points for certain subjects (like Maths or Science), so make sure to check their rules.
- Work smart — focus on improving subjects where small improvements can boost your points quickly.
Final Thoughts
Calculating your matric points doesn’t have to be stressful. Once you know the steps, it’s easy to see where you stand — and where you can still grow.
Take it one subject at a time, stay focused, and soon you’ll be celebrating your next big step!
